Community Highlights

Building Bridges: Monica’s Decade of Community Impact in Grand Rapids

For over a decade, Monica has been a driving force behind community engagement and public service in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Her journey began in 2013 as a graduate-level Criminal Justice Intern on the Westside of Grand Rapids, where she quickly realized that grassroots crime prevention was her true calling.

“I never wanted a corporate job where I made a ton of money but never truly made a difference,” Monica reflects. “I wanted to be out in the community, walking alongside people and giving them the tools to succeed.”

Monica’s dedication led her to a career in public service. When her mentor retired, she stepped into the role of Crime Prevention Coordinator. Soon after, she also took on the responsibilities of Community Organizer. Her leadership skills and passion for community work eventually earned her the position of Executive Director for a neighborhood association, a role she held for six years. However, she found herself spending more time on grant reports and administrative work than engaging with the people she wanted to serve.

In 2024, she transitioned to a new organization, balancing multiple roles—Crime Prevention Organizer, Auto Theft Prevention Specialist, and Community Engagement Specialist. Her commitment and hands-on approach led to a promotion, and she now serves as the Commercial Corridor Manager for the Westside Corridor Improvement Authority.

Throughout her career, Monica has spearheaded countless community events, all with the goal of fostering relationships and connecting people to resources. One of the most notable is the Community Cleanup, an event she has been involved with for ten years, recently co-chairing its expansion into a city-wide initiative. With 17 registration sites and over 1,000 volunteers, this event not only beautifies the city but also brings people together in a shared mission of community pride.

At the heart of her work is a belief that real change comes from empowerment. “I don’t believe in doing things for people. I believe in giving them the tools to do it themselves,” she says.

Her efforts extend beyond cleanup initiatives. She has organized events such as Pop with a Cop, Cone with a Cop, National Night Out, and Trunk-or-Treat, all designed to build trust between the community and law enforcement.

Monica’s expertise in crime prevention has led her to champion vehicle theft deterrents like VIN Etching, offering West Michigan residents the opportunity to make their cars less attractive to thieves. Through her work with the Auto Theft Prevention Authority, she also distributes free safety materials, including steering wheel locks and gun locks.

Now, as Commercial Corridor Manager, she’s focusing on business and community collaboration. One of her biggest projects is adding trash receptacles throughout the Westside to keep sidewalks clean. She subscribes to the Broken Window Theory, which emphasizes that a well-maintained environment promotes safety and discourages crime. Beyond trash removal, her beautification efforts include planting flowers, adding public art, and supervising court-ordered community service workers to enhance the area.

One of her recent initiatives includes working with Swift Printing to implement Wayfinding Window Clings—informative signage helping tourists and community members navigate business corridors.

Despite a decade of service, Monica’s passion remains unwavering. “I’m glad I never sold my soul chasing a paycheck. Instead, I chose to show up for my community,” she says.

As she looks to the future, Monica is excited to continue amplifying community voices, forging partnerships, and inspiring others to get involved. “We all have busy lives, but take the time to meet your neighbors and volunteer for community events. Together, we can make a difference.”

Cheers to Community!