Bronze Annual – Senior Neighbors

Join us in celebrating Rev. Lew Vander Meer, one of this year's 16 Over 60 honorees! 👏 Rev. Lew Vander Meer is a community pastor, recovery advocate, and volunteer who serves as a beacon of hope in Grand Rapids, where he has lived in the same neighborhood for over 80 years. He is the longtime senior pastor of New Community Church of West Michigan, heading a faith community of over 700 people. Lew is passionate about aiding others in their recovery journeys and assists in leading his church’s Community Recovery Program, which provides food and fellowship to people with “hurts, habits and hangups.” He spends every Friday at these community-wide recovery events, moving among people to provide encouragement, pastoral counsel, and a friendly smile. Outside of church activities, Lew has been active as a community gardener for over 30 years and has become an experienced leader and mentor at the Fulton Heights Community Garden.🌱 He has also been the director of the Grand Rapids Metro Debate League for decades, where he serves over 100 high school students a year. Lew is an inspirational leader and advocate, and he plans to continue serving his home community as long as he can. Help us recognize Lew and the other 2024 honorees by getting your tickets to the gala today: bit.ly/4egml6f 🎊 #16Over60 SeniorNeighbors #RegisterToday #MeijerGardens ... See MoreSee Less