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Get Involved

Partner With Us to Create Lasting Change Across Western Michigan

At Necessary Change, our impact is powered by the passion, generosity, and dedication of community members like you. Whether you share your time as a volunteer, lend your expertise as a mentor, or make a financial contribution, your support directly fuels our programs and expands access for local youth, adults, and families. Together, we can build a safer, stronger, and more connected community.

Looking to participate in a program or attend an event?

If you are seeking to enroll in our water safety, career exploration, or relationship strengthening programs—or want to see upcoming date nights and community workshops—please visit our dedicated pages below:

So Many Ways to Join the Cause:

Coast

Volunteer and Community Advocacy

Help us amplify our message. We are looking for individuals to assist with neighborhood outreach, volunteer at summer block parties, host open mics, or coordinate water safety assemblies in local schools.

Corporate Partnerships and Grants

 Partner with us to build safer communities. We collaborate with foundations, municipal park departments, and local businesses across Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Kent, and Oceana counties.

We run a lean, high-impact operation.

100% of our $140,000 baseline budget directly covers facility rentals ($40k), wages for certified instructors/lifeguards ($65k), safety equipment & supplies ($12k), insurance ($8k), and marketing/admin ($15k) to ensure local families are protected.

Where Your Giving Goes

A Special Message
from CEO and Founder,
Joseph W. Curtis

Thank you for visiting my website and for your generous support.

I am deeply grateful to the communities of Western Michigan and Phoenix, Arizona, which helped shape my life, strengthen my character, and inspire me to serve others. Their encouragement has empowered me to pursue a life dedicated to making a positive impact in communities around the world.

First and foremost, I give all glory and honor to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, whose grace and guidance have made this journey possible.

I am forever thankful for the unwavering love and support of my wife, Dr. Tanisha Curtis, and our four wonderful children, Savannah, Myles, Christian, and Lauren Curtis. Their encouragement and sacrifices inspire me every day.

I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to my mother, Brenda Curtis, whose love, faith, and strength have been a constant source of inspiration. I am grateful for my grandmother, Carrie Lee, and my sisters, Carrie and Nikki, whose love and support have enriched my life.

Throughout my journey, I have been blessed by mentors, leaders, and friends who believed in me and invested in my growth. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mrs. Sheryl Chambers, Judge Ben Logan, Mr. Gerald Dawkins, James Price, Kevin Brooks, Phil Walton, and my many lifelong friends from Southeast Grand Rapids.

Finally, I want to recognize the exceptional mentors who helped me navigate the business and nonprofit communities: Larry Abbott, J.C. Huizenga, Peter Secchia, Mykel Barnes, and Don Houston. Your wisdom, guidance, and belief in me have left a lasting impact on my life and the lives of those I have the privilege to serve.

To everyone who has encouraged, challenged, prayed for, and supported me along the way—thank you. Your kindness and generosity continue to inspire me to lead with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to serving others.

Make a difference.

Change starts with people like you. Your donation helps make a real impact, one action at a time. Together, we can do more.

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