SHALOM KALAMAZOO
What is SHALOM?
SHALOM is an acronym for Self-Help Alternative Living Opportunities of Michigan. We are a non-profit, independent, 501 (c) 3 corporation with a Board of Directors providing oversight. SHALOM exists to serve adults living with developmental disabilities.
We are people focused, Christ centered and community supported. The Shepherd’s Barn, Connection Depot Thrift Store, Coffee Connection, SHALOM Woolery and Farm are means to serve those we have been called to love.
Our desire is to reach all people with the love and wholeness we ourselves are receiving through Christ.
What is the SHALOM Network?
Although SHALOM owns five homes, and leases one home, the Network is much broader, including two privately owned homes and many community friends living with their families. At capacity, the Network of Homes consists of 35 residents plus members of the caregiver families. There are dozens of additional community friends associated with SHALOM. We envision adding to the Network as like-minded homes and individuals connect.
The SHALOM Network 2026 has eight homes: Homestead, Three Pines, Homestead South, Polk, Growing Grace, Groveland, Hope Grove, and Barnabas, homes to 32 residents, plus caregivers and their families. Three homes are licensed AFC (Adult Foster Care) homes and five are supported living homes.
The homes are each managed by Christian caregivers and operate as extended family, giving residents a place they call home with the support they need.
Community Involvement
SHALOM is volunteer driven and depends on the interest and generosity of the community. So many people invest in the SHALOM Mission each week! People give financially, through donations to the store or Woolery, and with their time. Volunteers serve at the SHALOM Woolery, Connection Depot, Coffee Connection, giving rides, providing meals or activities, and through loving relationships.
We have been blessed to be a blessing! SHALOM has given back in many ways to our generous community. We have so many opportunities to help those in need through the thrift store.
The Woolery has a weekly partnership with KRESA students living with disabilities. Students visit the Woolery and Woolery participants teach and work alongside them.
The SHALOM Woolery is a site for Western Michigan University Occupational Therapy students where we provide supervision and training.
SHALOM sends a team each month to the Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners to serve alongside other volunteers working to share the love of Jesus by providing food all across the world.
Monthly Events
- SHALOM Worship at the Shepherd's Barn is the first Saturday of each month at 6:30pm. We gather to woship the Lord together and hear from His word. All are welcome.
- Network Dinner at the Shepherd's Barn is the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6pm. This family style meal is for volunteers, staff, community friends, SHALOM residents and their families, and community members whose lives have been touched by a disability.
- Pavilion Bonfire Dinner occurs the 4th Tuesday of each month at the Pavilion at 5pm. This is a time to eat good food (including s'mores!) in a relaxed outdoor atmostphere, hang out by a bonfire, build relationships, and play games. Someone will often bring a guitar for live music! This event is weather dependant so check with the office before heading out!
Shepherd’s Barn
The Shepherd’s Barn is home to our Activity Center, Connection Depot Thrift Store, and SHALOM Coffee Connection. The Activity Center is used for all kinds of Network gatherings and celebrations.
Connection Depot Thrift Store
Our store enables participants, volunteers, staff, friends and community to be involved together – which is entirely the point! We love the new relationships developed through those who volunteer, shop and donate. Stop by to visit Friday or Saturday, 9 – 3 (closed major holiday weekends).
SHALOM Woolery
The SHALOM Woolery meets each Monday through Thursday 10 – 2, for a great time of work and fun. We learn to make many items and find much satisfaction in our time together.
The SHALOM Woolery is an opportunity for individuals living with disabilities to engage in many unique experiences, assisted by coaches and volunteers.
The variety of tasks in the SHALOM Woolery creates an exciting place to grow as a whole person physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. Please ask about this great place to live life to the full!
SHALOM Farm
The SHALOM Farm is an extension of the SHALOM Woolery . The SHALOM Farm is a busy place with animal care, gardening, and people serving together! You may see goats, sheep, chickens, alpaca and rabbits! We process maple syrup, and grow veggies, flowers, and fruit. Our new barn is almost complete!