Local Business Spotlight — Revive and Thrive Project

We are thrilled to feature Revive and Thrive Project as our September Local Business Spotlight! At Treadstone, we love supporting and uplifting people who are making a difference in our community, and Revive and Thrive is doing just that. Founded in 2015 by nutritionist Wendy Borden, this incredible non-profit provides medically supportive meals to individuals facing serious health challenges. Wendy’s personal experience with a major health diagnosis inspired her to bring nourishing, healing meals to those in need, and today, Revive and Thrive has grown into a crucial resource for hundreds of families in our area.

 

Revive and Thrive Project’s Mission

Providing Nourishing Meals
Revive and Thrive Project’s mission is centered around providing medically supportive, nutrient-dense meals to individuals battling severe health conditions like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Through the Food as Medicine philosophy, they deliver seven plant-forward meals each week to clients, offering up to 24 weeks of support. These meals are more than just sustenance — they provide comfort and relief during an incredibly difficult time, allowing both clients and their families to focus on recovery.

By sourcing ingredients locally, Revive and Thrive not only nourishes clients but also supports West Michigan farms. Since its inception, the project has delivered over 80,000 meals to more than 1,300 individuals. In 2024, they’re on track to deliver 24,000 meals, reaching even more people in need. In addition to meals, the project provides nutrition education and easy recipes to help clients build long-term healthy habits.

For many clients, Revive and Thrive becomes a vital part of their support system, showing up at their door week after week with meals, resources, and a sense of community care.

Investing in Teenagers
An integral part of Revive and Thrive’s mission extends beyond meal delivery — it’s about cultivating the next generation of leaders. The organization’s Teen Chef Program brings together teens and adult volunteers, working side by side in the kitchen to prepare meals each week. This intergenerational collaboration fosters a safe space where teens can develop leadership skills, learn the importance of service, and gain valuable kitchen experience.

The program doesn’t just teach culinary skills — it’s about building a sense of community, promoting teamwork, and instilling compassion. With over 50 teens participating in 2024 alone, and volunteers contributing more than 3,700 hours, the Teen Chef Program has become a vibrant space for personal growth and community involvement. Through this initiative, Revive and Thrive is shaping the future by empowering young people to lead with empathy and skill.

 

How Do People Get Involved?

How to Receive Meals
Revive and Thrive supports individuals with a range of health conditions, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. To receive meals, individuals can apply directly through the Revive and Thrive website or be referred by a doctor, healthcare system, or even a friend. The organization does not have income-based eligibility requirements, recognizing that health crises affect people across all economic statuses. Whether due to physical limitations, emotional exhaustion, or a lack of social support, many individuals struggle to access nutritious meals, and Revive and Thrive aims to bridge that gap.

How to Volunteer
Volunteers are the backbone of Revive and Thrive’s mission. Opportunities are available for both teens and adults, with teens aged 14+ eligible to join the Teen Chef Program. Adults of all ages can help by supporting kitchen operations, packaging meals, or delivering meals to clients. No experience is necessary, and the organization offers Volunteer Welcome Orientations twice a month at their kitchen in Grace Episcopal Church, East Grand Rapids.

Upcoming volunteer orientation dates are:

• Monday, October 14 from 12:00pm-12:45pm
• Monday, October 28 from 6:00pm-6:45pm
• Monday, November 11 from 12:00pm-12:45pm
• Monday, November 25 from 6:00pm-6:45pm

Learn More & Stay Connected
Website: https://reviveandthriveproject.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reviveandthriveproject/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviveandthriveproject/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/revive-and-thrive-project