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ABOUT

Mission Statement
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African Resource informs, connects, and equips African immigrants in West Michigan with people and resources to foster a flourishing community where recent African immigrants can prosper emotionally, educationally, economically, and socially.

Equity Statement

Diversity strengthens the community. We recognize the barriers of disadvantage and discrimination and create a community where all people are valued and all perspectives are respected and appreciated.

Board of Directors
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Abe Vreeke

Board Chair

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Joyce Arthur

Secretary

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Bernard Ayoola, PhD

Executive Director

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Don Bratt

Treasurer

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Adetunji Ojo

Member

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Eric   Washington, PhD

Member

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Jennifer McDonald

Member

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Arin Ebosele

Member

Youth Empowerment Team
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Al Gasake

SuccessNow Consultant

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Toluwani Adekunle, PhD

Program Manager

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Sarah Atang

FutureNow! Tutor

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Nadia Raei

CampusConnect Lead

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Michaella Ouoba

SuccessNow Coordinator

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Beta Akari

Family Liaison, FutureNow!

Our History

Founded in 2014, the African Resource Center of West Michigan was established in response to the growing needs of African immigrants and refugees in Kent County. As the County’s African diaspora expanded, so did the demand for culturally responsive services that address the complex realities of resettlement, integration, and wellness. The Center’s mission is to inform, connect, and equip African immigrants with the resources and relationships necessary to thrive across four key domains: emotional well-being, educational achievement, economic mobility, and social inclusion. The African Resource Center operates with a deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment. We recognize the systemic barriers—linguistic, cultural, economic, and institutional—that disproportionately affect African immigrants. Our programs are designed to reduce disparities, build trust, and promote long-term resilience. We serve a broad demographic, including adolescents, families, and individuals navigating the challenges of resettlement. Our approach is trauma-informed, linguistically accessible, and grounded in lived experience.

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