About

Mission Statement

African Resource informs, connects, and equips African immigrants in West Michigan with the support and resources needed to build a flourishing community where newcomers can thrive emotionally, educationally, economically, and socially.

Vision Statement

A vibrant African community in West Michigan where newcomers are welcomed, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential—contributing their gifts, culture, and leadership to a stronger, more inclusive society.

Core Values

Community: We believe in the power of belonging. We cultivate spaces where African immigrants can build relationships, share culture, and support one another.
Dignity: We honor the inherent worth of every person. Our programs and interactions reflect respect, compassion, and cultural humility.
Empowerment: We equip individuals and families with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to navigate systems, pursue opportunities, and shape their own futures.
Collaboration: We work alongside partners, families, and community leaders to create solutions that reflect the lived experiences and strengths of African immigrants.
Cultural Integrity: We celebrate the languages, traditions, and histories of African communities, ensuring that our work is rooted in cultural relevance and pride.
Accountability: We uphold high standards of professionalism, transparency, and responsibility in all our programs, partnerships, and interactions.
Holistic Well‑Being: We support the emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well‑being of the individuals and families we serve.

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

Don Bratt

Board Chair

Joyce Arthur

Secretary

Bernard Ayoola, PhD

Executive Director

Eric Washington, PhD

Member

Jennifer McDonald

Member

Adetuni Ojo

Member

Arin Ebosele

Member

Youth Empowerment Team

Toluwani Adekunle, PhD

Program Manager

Axel Rudasingwa

Interpreter/Translator

Salia Georgete

Youth Outreach Coordinator

Nadia Raei

FutureNow! Tutor

Michaella Ouoba

Safe Space Coordinator

Beta Akari

Family Liaison

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.