
Upcoming events

Lead Abatement Supervisor Training
Lead Abatement Supervisor Training
[ Click Here to view this information in Spanish]
📢 Build healthier spaces and become a Lead Abatement Supervisor!
This training is offered by LINC UP and the City of Grand Rapids to equip you with the skills and certification needed to oversee lead abatement projects. Upon completion and passing the exam, you'll receive a license valid until March 31, 2026.
Class Details: 🗓️ June 9–12, 2025 🕗 Time: 8:30 AM – 5 PM 📍 Location: 1258 Madison SE
Exam Details: 🗓️ June 16, 2025 🕙 Time: 10 AM 📍 Location: 1258 Madison SE
Eligibility Requirements:
Two years of residential construction experience
No prior certification in the lead paint field
Proficiency in English (training conducted in English)
📞 Contact Laura St. Louis to Sign Up Today!
📧 Email: Laura@lincrev.org
📲 Phone: (616) 406-8038


Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Liberation Lit: Book Club
Liberation Lit: Book Club
A monthly book club dedicated to exploring powerful stories by BIPOC authors — hosted by LINC UP’s Civic Engagement Liaison, Austin.
Each month, we’ll gather for an intentional, no-pressure space to read, reflect, and build community through conversation and connection.
📖 First Book: Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
🗓️ Date: Wednesday, June 25, 5:30 – 7:30 PM, LINC UP Gallery – 341 Hall St SE
Light refreshments provided. Just bring yourself, your thoughts, and a love for good stories.
Want to Participate? Contact: Austin@lincrev.org
Let’s read. Let’s grow. Let’s build together.

FREE Estate Planning with Legal Aid WM
Family Foundations: Free Estate Planning with Legal Aid of West Michigan
Do you own a home you want to leave to a family member?
Myth: I don’t need an estate plan, I’m not rich.
Truth: If you own a home, an estate plan allows you to decide what will happen to it when you pass and will make things much easier for your family!
Myth: I can’t afford an estate plan.
Truth: Yes, you can. Legal Aid of Western Michigan is providing FREE estate planning services to eligible individuals who want to protect their home!
Join us:
🗓️ Tuesday, July 1 • 4–8 PM 📍 Linc Up 1167 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507
CALL LEGAL AID TO REGISTER! 📞 (616) 774-0672
Pre-registration is required. Deadline to Register: Wednesday, June 25

Feed the Block
Feed the Block: Free Food Distribution Event!
🗓️ Date: Saturday, July 12 Time: 10 AM – Until Supplies Last! Location: 341 Hall St SE
Join LINC UP and Feeding America West Michigan for Feed the Block, a free food distribution event dedicated to nourishing our community and ensuring families have access to fresh, nutritious food.
🙌 Want to help? Whether you can lift boxes, greet neighbors, or organize food items, your support makes a difference.
Click here to sign up!
📞 Questions? Call us at (616) 451-9140.

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Feed the Block
Feed the Block: Free Food Distribution Event!
🗓️ Date: Saturday, September 13th Time: 10 AM – Until Supplies Last! Location: 341 Hall St SE
Join LINC UP and Feeding America West Michigan for Feed the Block, a free food distribution event dedicated to nourishing our community and ensuring families have access to fresh, nutritious food.
🙌 Want to help? Whether you can lift boxes, greet neighbors, or organize food items, your support makes a difference.
Click here to sign up!
📞 Questions? Call us at (616) 451-9140.

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Feed the Block
Feed the Block: Free Food Distribution Event!
🗓️ Date: Saturday, November 22nd Time: 10 AM – Until Supplies Last! Location: 341 Hall St SE
Join LINC UP and Feeding America West Michigan for Feed the Block, a free food distribution event dedicated to nourishing our community and ensuring families have access to fresh, nutritious food.
🙌 Want to help? Whether you can lift boxes, greet neighbors, or organize food items, your support makes a difference.
Click here to sign up!
📞 Questions? Call us at (616) 451-9140.

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Child Support Bench Warrant Clinic
Child Support Bench Warrant Clinic
🗓️ Thursday, June 12, 2025, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM, LINC UP Gallery, 341 Hall St SE, Grand Rapids, MI
Do you have a bench warrant due to unpaid child support? You’re not alone—and you have options.
Join us for a Child Support Bench Warrant Clinic where you can connect with Kent County FOC support staff to begin resolving your case—without fear of arrest. Get help understanding your options and taking steps forward in a safe, supportive space.
What to Bring:
• Proof of income (if employed)
• Payment options: cash, credit card, cashier’s check, or money order
• If medically unable to work, bring proof of disability
No registration required.
Questions? Contact Jamell at (616) 451-9140 or Jamell@lincrev.org.
Partners: LINC UP, Kent County Friend of the Court, Taylor Made Re-Entry, and BFW Foundation.

Youth Summer Connect
YOUTH SUMMER CONNECT ☀️
Looking for the perfect summer opportunity? Whether you’re a young person exploring jobs and internships or a caregiver seeking meaningful summer programs for your kids, Youth Summer Connect is your one-stop event to get plugged in! Stop by to explore:
• Jobs & paid internships for teens and young adults
• Local training and career-readiness programs
• Summer camps and enrichment activities for younger youth
• Resources from youth-serving organizations across Grand Rapids
Vendor spots are still available and FREE!
If your organization supports youth in any way, we’d love to have you involved.
Questions or vendor inquiries?
Contact Jamell Hatchett at Jamell@lincrev.org or (616) 885-0460.
Let’s connect and build a strong, active summer for our youth—together!

Contractor Connect: Lead Abatement Info Night
Join LINC UP and ETC for Contractor Connect: Lead Abatement Info Night, an evening designed to help you take the next step in your career. This event offers food, networking, and direct sign-up to our June Lead Abatement Supervisor training — a FREE opportunity that opens doors to in-demand jobs.
🗓️ Wednesday, May 28th, 5:00–7:30 PM at LINC UP Gallery (341 Hall St SE)
✅ Meet and greet with licensed contractors
✅ Sign up directly for the June training class
✅ Get assistance with city and state applications
✅ Learn how to grow your business while making homes safer
🎟️ No registration required! Questions? Email: Laura@lincrev.org


Round Table: Homebuyer Q&A
Round Table: Homebuyer Q&A [REGISTER HERE]
Thinking about buying a home? Have questions about the process, loans, or financing options?
Join LINC UP and Mercantile Bank for a casual, round table-style Homebuyer Q&A where no question is too small.
🗓️ Thursday, May 15, 5:30 PM 📍 LINC UP Gallery, 341 Hall St SE
We’re inviting all participants to bring at least three questions you have about your homeownership journey — whether it’s about mortgages, escrow, PMI, or anything in between. This is a welcoming space to get the answers you need from trusted experts.
Dinner is on us and the knowledge is free — let’s grow together!
Questions? Contact Sarah at sarah@lincrev.org or (616) 840-3743.

RTB Performance Auditions
CALLING ALL PERFORMERS! 🎤🔥
Think you’ve got what it takes to rock the stage at Rock the Block 2025? We’re holding auditions, and YOU’RE INVITED!
Audition Dates: Sunday, April 13 & Sunday, May 4
Time Block: 2 PM - 4 PM
Location: LINC UP Gallery | 341 Hall St SE
All genres welcome! Just bring your energy & a 5-minute set—we’ll handle the rest!
Spots are limited, so don’t wait! Reserve your time slot NOW: tinyurl.com/RTBAuditions

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Meet the Lenders: PreQual Workshop
🏡 Meet the Lenders: Pre-Qualification Workshop [Register Here]
Join us for a free workshop designed to help you take the first step toward homeownership! Multiple lenders will be onsite to guide you through the pre-qualification process and help you find the best fit based on your financial situation. Whether you’re just beginning or ready to move forward, this is a great chance to get expert insight and support in a friendly, judgment-free space.
🗓️ Thursday, April 24th 🕓 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM 📍 LINC UP Gallery | 341 Hall St SE
✅ To increase your chances of getting pre-qualified, please bring: (See full suggested list at registration)
• A valid photo ID
• W-2 or 1099 forms (last 2 years)
• Bank statements (last 2 months)
• List of debts
Registration is required — REGISTER HERE or contact Sarah for more info!
📞 (616) 451-9140 📧 Sarah@lincrev.org

Workforce Readiness Pop-Up
🚀 Workforce Readiness Pop-Up Event!
🗓️ Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025 Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Location: LINC UP | 341 Hall St SE
Looking to level up your career, land your next job, or sharpen your professional skills? We’ve got you covered with FREE resources to help you succeed!
What to Expect:
✔️ FREE Professional Clothing 👔
✔️ Resume Building & Mock Interviews 📄
✔️ Financial Literacy Resources 💰
✔️ Career Coaching & Employer Connections 💼
✔️ Professional Headshots 📸
✔️ Light Snacks & Refreshments 🍽️
✔️ & More!
Don’t miss this game-changing opportunity to elevate your career!
📩 For more info, contact: Jamell@lincrev.org | (616) 451-9140

Lead Abatement Supervisor Training
Lead Abatement Supervisor Training
[ Click Here to view this information in Spanish]
📢 Build healthier spaces and become a Lead Abatement Supervisor!
This training is offered by LINC UP, the City of Grand Rapids and GRCC to equip you with the skills and certification needed to oversee lead abatement projects. Upon completion and passing the exam, you'll receive a license valid until March 31, 2026.
Class Details:
🗓️ Training Dates: April 21–24, 2025 🕗 Time: 8 AM – 4:30 PM 📍 Location: 1258 Madison SE
Exam Details:
🗓️ Exam Date: April 25, 2025 🕙 Time: 10 AM 📍 Location: 341 Hall St SE
Eligibility Requirements:
Two years of residential construction experience
No prior certification in the lead paint field
Proficiency in English (training conducted in English)
📞 Contact Laura St. Louis to Sign Up Today!
📧 Email: Laura@lincrev.org
📲 Phone: (616) 406-8038

RTB Performance Auditions
CALLING ALL PERFORMERS! 🎤🔥
Think you’ve got what it takes to rock the stage at Rock the Block 2025? We’re holding auditions, and YOU’RE INVITED!
Audition Dates: Sunday, April 13 & Sunday, May 4
Time Block: 2 PM - 4 PM
Location: LINC UP Gallery | 341 Hall St SE
All genres welcome! Just bring your energy & a 5-minute set—we’ll handle the rest!
Spots are limited, so don’t wait! Reserve your time slot NOW: tinyurl.com/RTBAuditions

Homeownership 101 Workshop Hosted by ChoiceOne Bank
🏡 Homeownership 101 Workshop - REGISTER HERE!
🗓️ Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
📍 Location: LINC UP Gallery, 341 Hall St SE
Thinking about buying a home? Join us for a free Homeownership 101 Workshop, hosted by ChoiceOne Bank! This session will walk you through everything you need to know to start your journey to homeownership.
What You’ll Learn:
✅ Lender requirements & loan options
✅ Grants, subsidies, & seed money available
✅ Credit score requirements & financial planning
✅ Steps to qualify for a mortgage
🍽️ Dinner provided! 🎟️ Plus, a raffle giveaway!
📩 Questions? Contact Sarah at: sarah@lincrev.org | 📞 (616) 451-9140

GOLD Basketball Game Fundraiser
Grand Rapids Gold vs. Indiana Mad Ants | Mar 27, 2025 7:00 PM EDT
Van Andel Arena 130 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, US
Tickets - $18 Purchase Your Tickets Here
Purchase Deadline: Mar 27, 2025 7:00 PM EDT
Come out and enjoy some Grand Rapids Gold basketball while also supporting LINC UP and their mission!
For 25 years, LINC UP has been at the heart of building strong, vibrant neighborhoods in Grand Rapids. We believe that neighborhoods matter—where you start shapes where you go. Through meaningful connections, we link residents to resources by bridging who you know, what you know, where you live, and what you make.
As we celebrate our 25th Anniversary, we honor the partnerships, stories, and milestones that have brought us here, and we look forward to continuing our mission of creating thriving communities for generations to come. Learn more: www.lincup.org


Lead Abatement Supervisor Training
Lead Abatement Supervisor Training
[ Click Here to view this information in Spanish]
📢 Build healthier spaces and become a Lead Abatement Supervisor!
This training is offered by LINC UP, the City of Grand Rapids and GRCC to equip you with the skills and certification needed to oversee lead abatement projects. Upon completion and passing the exam, you'll receive a license valid until March 31, 2026.
Class Details:
🗓️ Training Dates: March 24–27, 2025
🕗 Time: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
📍 Location: 1258 Madison SE
Exam Details:
🗓️ Exam Date: March 28, 2025
🕙 Time: 10 AM
📍 Location: 341 Hall St SE
Eligibility Requirements:
Two years of residential construction experience
No prior certification in the lead paint field
Proficiency in English (training conducted in English)
📞 Contact Laura St. Louis to Sign Up Today!
📧 Email: Laura@lincrev.org
📲 Phone: (616) 406-8038

Feed the Block
Feed the Block: Free Food Distribution Event!
🗓️ Date: Saturday, March 22nd Time: 10 AM – Until Supplies Last! Location: 341 Hall St SE
Join LINC UP and Feeding America West Michigan for Feed the Block, a free food distribution event dedicated to nourishing our community and ensuring families have access to fresh, nutritious food.
🙌 Want to help? Whether you can lift boxes, greet neighbors, or organize food items, your support makes a difference.
Click here to sign up!
📞 Questions? Call us at (616) 451-9140.

Meet the Lenders: PreQual Workshop
Meet the Lenders: Prequal Workshop 🏡
Participating Lenders:
🏦 LMCU 🏦 ChoiceOne Bank 🏦 Huntington Bank 🏦 Mercantile Bank 🏦 Old National Bank
🗓️ Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
⏰ Time: 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: LINC UP Gallery, 341 Hall St SE
📌 Registration Required! Click here to register.
Are you ready to take the next step toward homeownership? Join us for the Prequal Workshop, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with lenders to review your paperwork, discuss requirements, and learn what it takes to get pre-qualified for a mortgage.
What to Expect:
✅ Personalized guidance from experienced lenders
✅ A clear understanding of the pre-approval process
✅ A chance to review your financial documents
✅ Steps to qualify for a mortgage
✅ Light snacks & refreshments provided
For questions, contact:
Sarah Edgington, Homeownership Coordinator
(616) 451-9140 | Sarah@lincrev.org

Credit Confidence Workshop with Mercantile Bank
CREDIT CONFIDENCE WORKSHOP
HOSTED BY: Mercantile Bank
WHEN: THURSDAY FEB 27 • 5:30PM - 7:30PM
WHERE: LINC UP GALLERY – 341 HALL ST SE
Join us for our Credit Confidence Workshop hosted by Mercantile Bank, where we'll break down what credit is-and what it isn't.
Whether you're new to credit or looking to improve your score, this workshop will give you the tools and knowledge to navigate the credit system with confidence! Dinner provided.
What You'll Learn:
The factors that shape your credit score
The difference between credit reports and scores
Why credit scores fluctuate and how to manage them
Steps to build and maintain strong credit over time

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Pre-Game Homeownership Seminar
🏀 JOIN US FOR A PRE-GAME HOMEOWNERSHIP SEMINAR!
Thinking about buying a home? LINC UP & LMCU are teaming up to bring you a FREE Pre-Game Homeownership Seminar at Van Andel Arena before the big game!
🗓️ Saturday, February 22nd
Seminar at 5 PM | Game Tip-Off at 7 PM
At the Van Andel Arena, 130 Fulton St W
✨ Why Attend?
✅ Get expert advice on the path to homeownership
✅ FREE parking & light refreshments
✅ Enjoy a GOLD Basketball game and family-friendly activities after the seminar!
💡 Spots are limited—be sure to register all who plan to attend HERE!

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Enjoy a meal, connect with neighbors, and dive into real conversations about the issues that matter most to our city.
After dinner, we'll head to the City Commission meeting as a group to make sure our voices are heard and our community's concerns are represented.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US!

Savings 101 Workshop with Mercantile Bank
SAVINGS 101 WORKSHOP HOSTED BY: Mercantile Bank
THURSDAY JAN 23, 5:30PM - 7:30PM @ LINC UP GALLERY - 341 HALL ST SE
Join us for our Savings 101 Workshop, hosted by Mercantile Bank where you'll learn practical strategies like:
How to start and grow your savings
The different types of savings products and services available
Why having a savings account is essential
Tips to make your savings account work smarter for you
Plus, enjoy dinner on us and a chance to win in our raffle! REGISTER HERE

Expungement Resource Fair
📢 Expungement Resource Fair
Join us on Friday, January 17th, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the LINC UP Gallery (341 Hall St SE) for a FREE Expungement Resource Fair!
This event offers one-on-one support from attorneys and valuable information to help you understand your expungement eligibility and navigate the expungement process. Whether you're just starting or need assistance finalizing your application, this resource fair is here to help.
📍 Event Details:
🗓️ Date: Friday, January 17, 2025
🕚 Time: 11 AM - 3 PM
📍 Location: LINC UP Gallery, 341 Hall St SE, Grand Rapids
For more information, contact Jamell Hatchett at 📞 (616) 451-9140 or 📧 Jamell@lincrev.org.

FEED THE BLOCK
Join us for Feed the Block – A community nourishment event dedicated to providing free, nutritious food to our neighbors!
Come together at 341 Hall Street SE on Saturday, December 21st, from 10 AM to 2 PM, to share in the bounty and the spirit of community care.
Your support helps us ensure that no one in our community goes hungry. See you there!

Community Town Hall
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 | 5:30PM-7PM
@ LINC UP GALLERY – 341 HALL ST SE
Learn about the history of the 3rd Ward and how systemic practices like redlining have shaped our community's landscape and opportunities. Join us to connect, learn, and collaborate toward a brighter, more equitable future for our community.
Dinner provided! Your voice matters—be part of the conversation.

FIRST FRIDAY: Networking & Holiday Market
🎉 Join Us for December's First Friday - Networking & Holiday Market! 🎉
Kick off the holiday season with LINC UP at our December First Friday event! 🎄✨
Date: Friday, December 6th
Time: 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: LINC UP Gallery, 341 Hall St SE, Grand Rapids
Get into the festive spirit and enjoy a night of networking, shopping, and holiday cheer! Browse unique gifts from local vendors, savor delicious seasonal treats, and dance along to lively music in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 🎶🍪🎁
Bring your friends, family, and colleagues to connect, celebrate, and support local businesses. Let’s make this holiday season one to remember!
Thank you to our sponsor: Experience Grand Rapids 🌟
For more details and updates, visit: lincup.org/first-friday

Turkey Giveaway
🦃 LINC UP Annual Turkey Giveaway! 🦃
Join us on November 23rd from 9 AM to 12 PM at the LINC UP Gallery (341 Hall St SE) for our Annual FREE Turkey Giveaway! No registration is needed, so arrive early — we’ll be giving away one turkey per family while supplies last.
Let’s spread warmth and share in the joy of the holiday season together! 🍁💛
Sponsored by: Great Giant Supermarket and Feeding America West Michigan

Pre-City Commission Dinner
Join us for our Pre-City Commission Dinner on Tuesday, November 19, from 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM at the LINC UP Gallery (341 Hall St SE). Ahead of the final public hearing on the GR Master Plan, this dinner will provide an overview of the plan's key points and its impact on our community. After the dinner, we’ll offer transportation to and from City Hall, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate and have their voice heard at this crucial meeting. Don’t miss this chance to stay informed and engaged!
For questions, contact us at civic-engagement@lincrev.org.

DISMINUCIÓN DEL PLOMO FORMACIÓN DE SUPERVISORES En EsPañol
To view this information in English click here.
🛠️ Construye Espacios Más Saludables: ¡Conviértete en un Supervisor Certificado de Eliminación de Plomo Hoy!
Fechas de la clase:
🗓 18-21 de noviembre | 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM | 1258 Madison SE
Examen:
🗓 22 de noviembre | 10:00 AM | 341 Hall St SE
Contacto:
Laura St. Louis: (616) 406-8038 | Laura@lincrev.org
Este programa incluye capacitación PAGADA, examen, Y una licencia válida hasta el 31 de marzo de 2025.
Requisitos de elegibilidad:
Dos años de experiencia en construcción residencial
No haber recibido certificación previa en el área de pintura con plomo
Esta clase se imparte en Español
No pierdas esta oportunidad para adquirir las habilidades y la certificación necesarias para hacer que los hogares y las comunidades sean más seguras. En colaboración con GRCC y el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Kent, esta capacitación te capacitará para desempeñar un papel clave en la eliminación de pintura con plomo peligrosa.

Child Support Bench Warrant Clinic & Parents Matter Resource Fair
Event: Child Support Bench Warrant Clinic & Parents Matter Resource Fair
Date & Time: Thursday, November 7th, 2024, from 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Location: LINC UP Gallery, 341 Hall St SE, Grand Rapids, MI
Description:
In collaboration with LINC UP, Taylor Made Re-Entry, and Kent County Friend of the Court, this event is designed to provide support and guidance for individuals dealing with child support bench warrants. The clinic offers attendees information and resources to help resolve these issues confidently, with the assurance that no law enforcement will be present. Additionally, the resource fair will provide valuable information and assistance to parents.
What to Bring:
Proof of income (if employed)
Payments are expected in most cases
Cash, credit cards, cashier's checks, and money orders are accepted
Proof of disability (if medically unable to work)
Walk-ins welcome or register here to reserve a time slot!
Questions? Contact Jamell: (616) 451-9140, Jamell@lincrev.org