Women's recovery home marks one year of healing

HealthNonprofit

Jun 11

Guiding Light marked the first anniversary of its women’s recovery program Tuesday with a dedication ceremony at Kendra’s House near downtown Grand Rapids. The event included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in honor of Kendra Geffert, who died from addiction in 2023. The home was named for Geffert and made possible by a donation from her aunt, Melody, who was inspired by Kendra’s struggle with alcoholism.

“Kendra’s House is a testament to healing, second chances, and the powerful ripple effect one life can have,” said Brian Elve, Executive Director, Guiding Light. “Kendra’s story has already inspired transformation, and this space continues to bring hope to women who are walking the hard road to recovery.”

Kendra’s House opened in 2024 as a safe, structured environment for up to 12 women participating in the nonprofit’s residential recovery program. In its first year, 35 women have entered the program, and nine have completed it. Eight women are currently living in the home.

“This past year has shown us just how vital a space like Kendra’s House is for women in recovery,” said Tori Grennan, Program Director of Women’s Recovery, Guiding Light. “This program is about building a new life with support, accountability, and love. The courage these women show every day is truly inspiring.”

Kendra’s mother, Marcia Draft, attended the dedication and reflected on her daughter’s legacy.

“Our family is so thankful that Guiding Light chose to honor our dear Kendra in this way,” said Marcia Draft, Kendra’s mother. “Even though God healed her in a different way than what we were hoping for, her legacy will live on in the lives of the women that this program helps.”

After completing their four- to six-month stay at Kendra’s House, participants continue their recovery through Guiding Light’s Achieve program, offered in partnership with Goodwill Industries. The program includes resume building, interview training, and employment preparation. In 2023, Guiding Light also opened two additional sober living homes — Esther’s House and Ruth’s House — to support women as they transition out of Kendra’s House and into independent living.

Guiding Light, a faith-based nonprofit, has been serving individuals experiencing addiction, homelessness, and hunger in West Michigan for over 95 years.

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