How it Began

Some call it a mission. Others call it a movement. But for us, Angels of Action began as a calling—a deep, undeniable pull to make sure no child in our community ever went hungry.

In the spring of 2011, three women—Joni Thompson, Stephanie Woodworth, and Julie Miller—felt their hearts break for the children in Mecosta County who were struggling with food insecurity. They knew something had to be done. What started as a simple idea, fueled by faith and a passion for helping others, quickly gained momentum.

By June of that year, the very first food collection was held. It was a small but powerful beginning, and soon, more hands and hearts joined in, each one committed to making a difference. The goal for that first year was simple yet profound: to provide 150 backpacks of nutritious food to children in need within the Big Rapids Public Schools.

But this wasn’t just a project—it was a promise to the children of our community. A promise that no child should ever go to bed hungry.

That first year was only the beginning. What started as a dream became a movement, and what was once a small act of kindness became a community-wide commitment. 

With every backpack filled, every meal provided, and every child served, we are reminded that love in action can change the world—one child at a time.