Three Cedar Springs area residents are being recognized for their role in the community as “Champions of Change.”

Photographs of Brian Rosenberger and Amy Outwin, who founded the non-profit “Bless the Children,” and Craig Owens, who is pastor at Calvary Assembly of God, and executive director of the En Gedi youth center, are part of an exhibit by photographer Adam Bird titled “People helping people.” The exhibit is located at 118 Commerce Avenue at the United Way Center.

“These photographs are of a few of the people who are united in the common cause of improving our community. Each person is different, with their own story, their own reasons for why they do what they do,” explained Bird. “The photographs and stories are meant to remind all of us that there is no one type of person, no age group, no chosen few who control the evolution of our community; it is the concerted actions of everybody, through their investment of time and money that our community changes. We are all different, we can all work together, and that is what makes us strong.”

Amy and Brian founded Bless the Children to encourage and build the self-esteem and confidence of children by supplying new clothing items to those in need. Amy and Brian work from individual requests from teachers, and partner with Cedar Springs Public Schools and Kent School Services Network – KSSN. When a request is made, they deliver bags of jeans, shirts, shoes, coats, boots, hats, socks or underwear to the school, sometimes sneaking in and out without even being noticed.

Craig is Senior Pastor of Calvary Assembly of God Church and Executive Director of En Gedi Youth Center, which provides innovative afterschool programming for middle school students in Cedar Springs. Craig has a passion for the Cedar Springs area and also serves as a member of the Cedar Springs Planning Commission. 

“The people that are featured in this ArtPrize exhibit have found a way to use their talents and skills to make the community a better place. It is our hope that others will be inspired and reach out to United Way to be connected to the needs in the community,” says Maureen Noe, President and CEO of Heart of West Michigan United Way. “The needs in Kent County are complex, but helping people is not. Supporting your community through financial gifts, speaking out on important issues, and lending your time and talent are simple, yet powerful, ways to help better our community.” 

ArtPrize attendees can visit the United Way Center at 118 Commerce Ave during ArtPrize to meet these Champions of Change—portraits and narratives will line the front windows along the United Way Center.