Holiday Community Relations Opportunities

The holidays will soon be upon us, and we have several opportunities for players, coaches, hockey operations staff, and Better Halves (Griffins wives and girlfriends) who'd like to give back to our community and spread holiday cheer. 

If you want more information, have questions, or would like to sign up for anything, please text, call or see either Randy Cleves (616-550-3665) or Katie Didier (203-690-2295) as soon as possible. Thanks!

Become a Turkey Drop Volunteer for Mel Trotter Ministries

In advance of its huge community meal on Thanksgiving, Mel Trotter Ministries will host its popular Turkey Drop donation event on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Your job would be to welcome the public as they drive up to a location, take the turkeys they donate, and put them in nearby bins. Locations for the three-hour shifts are Celebration Cinema North (2121 Celebration Dr. NE, anytime between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.) and Celebration Cinema South (1506 Eastport Dr. SE, from 1-4 p.m.).

Serve Dinner on Thanksgiving at Mel Trotter Mission

Following their community meal earlier in the day, Mel Trotter will provide their nightly dinner on Thursday, Nov. 28 at their mission (225 Commerce Ave. SW) located a few blocks south of Van Andel Arena. Sign up to be a food server. Arrival is 3 p.m. and the shift ends runs until 7:30 p.m.

Ring Bells for The Salvation Army

Now through Dec. 21, you're invited to ring bells for The Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettle Campaign at a grocery store, shopping center or retail store that's convenient to where you live. All funds raised stay in West Michigan to provide a variety of social services. Most shifts last two hours starting at 10 a.m., Noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily, but they can be split into one-hour shifts if we get enough volunteers.

We are also looking for six ladies to ring bells at Van Andel Arena for our Red Kettle Game on Friday, Dec. 6, during pre-game and intermissions (you'll be able to still watch the game). 

Adopt a Local Child or Family for Christmas

Provide a great Christmas for a struggling family or child and help them experience the warmth and wonder of the season. We work with Catholic Charities West Michigan, who can provide lists of what is needed if you want to do the shopping. (The cost is approximately $100-$150 per child.) Of course, monetary donations of any amount are also welcome. If you want to participate, please let Randy know your preference (shopping list or monetary donation) and how many kids you’d like to support ASAP, and we’ll work with Catholic Charities to identify a deserving child or family to benefit from your generosity.

Thank you!