LONG-TIME SUPPORTERS FIND PASSION FOR DABSJ ROOTED IN FAMILY HISTORY
Bill Alt had already been involved at DABSJ for years when he came across it — an old clipping from the Grand Rapids Herald, pulled from the boxes of scrapbooks and mementos from his late parents’ home.
The picture showed a group of women, members of the St. John’s Guild, standing alongside the Dominican Sisters who ran St. John’s Home (what is now DABSJ’s Residential Treatment program).
He had been a board member, even board chair, providing his loyal support — not knowing that the expansive history of the organization included a personal connection. Discovering his mother had volunteered for the organization he already held so dear made it all that much more special.
“There was my mom,” he said. “And that Guild is still active to this day, doing remarkable things for children.”
Bill’s journey with DABSJ spans multiple decades, including 11 years on the board and a pivotal role in the merger of St. John’s Home and D.A. Blodgett for Children. Initially involved due to his care for the wellbeing of children, his commitment only deepened when he learned he was carrying on the legacy of his mother.
That dedication is something he shares with his wife, Kimberly. Together, they have been steadfast supporters of DABSJ, championing its mission and ensuring that children and families in need receive the help and care they deserve.
During a tour of DABSJ’s new facility in 2023, Bill noticed an under-construction history wall. Upon learning it lacked funding, he saw an opportunity to honor both the organization’s legacy and his family’s multi-generational commitment to children.
“I love the history wall because I have history here – though I didn’t even realize it at first,” Bill said.
Thanks to the Alts and our community of supporters like you, the history of caring for children in Grand Rapids is not only remembered, it continues to be written.
