As vaccinations against COVID-19 are becoming more and more widely distributed, Guiding Light is slowly but surely opening our doors to volunteers again. As of right now, we are admitting a small number of men and women that work with clients in our Recovery program on a case by case basis.
In order to be approved for entry by our COVID-19 coordinator, Michael Kos, one must be fully vaccinated against the virus for at least 14 days. Upon approval and entry, one must also pass our screening examination. All visitors to Guiding Light must thoroughly wash their hands (and document that they have done so), have their temperature taken, fill out a symptoms checklist, and must not have travelled outside of Kent county for the last 14 days. This may seem rigorous, but it is because of these strict policies that not one of the residents living at our facility in downtown Grand Rapids has contracted COVID-19 and, God willing, we are doing all that we can to keep it that way.
Some of the men have been able to (often for the first time ever face to face) meet their mentors in sobriety, spiritual advisors, and outside supporters interested in helping them on their journey. It is a big deal, as our Recovery program for the past year has been run almost entirely remotely. It is important for our clients to have in-person interactions with spiritual advisors, mentors, and specialists. It has been a long and difficult road keeping our programs running as effectively as possible this past year. Hopefully, we are truly beginning to see a light at the end of the tunnel.
Throughout 2020, we have been getting inquiries around the clock from volunteers and supporters asking what they can do for us, or when they will be able to come back and help out. It has been truly heartening to hear from you all, and throughout this whole crazy year it has been such a comfort to know so many in our community care about the work we are doing here. Hopefully, as 2021 carries on, we will continue the trend of getting back to a “new normal” here at Guiding Light. We cannot thank you enough for all of the support we have received from you. God bless you and thank you, from all of us at Guiding Light.
