D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s (DABSJ)

D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s (DABSJ) new $10M multipurpose facility in Northeast Grand Rapids serves as the campus cornerstone, as it integrates all children and family services under one roof, an intentional move to improve outcomes for the 7,000 children and families it serves annually.

The DABSJ team worked closely with the Interphase design team to ensure the furniture selections and finishes coordinated to bring together building features that expanded programing space, administrative offices, and educational and wellness space for the children and families supported by the organization. The consolidation of services and open collaboration has resulted in more efficient use of staff time and improved collaboration across the agency resulting in better outcomes for children.

“In 1887 we responded to a need and never look back,” said Mary Muliett, president and chief executive officer, D.A. Blodgett-St. John’s. “As we work each day to support children and families in our community, I am grateful to the nearly 500 donors, supporters and foundations who are making this next chapter a reality. We support more than 7,000 kids and families each year. Having one physical space that is integrated and responsive, matches our standard for what children and families need and deserve.”

Formed from the merger of D.A. Blodgett for Children and St. John’s Home in 2010, DABSJ supports over 7,000 vulnerable children and struggling families through mentoring, behavioral health and family preservation, foster care, adoption, and residential care. With the help of community volunteers and through more than 15 programs, DABSJ addresses a wide range of complex needs for kids and families in West Michigan.

Photo Credit: KL Creative Studio & Grace Elizabeth Photography