History
In 1996, an African-American family moved out of the community because they were not welcome spurred 18 concerned lakeshore residents to meet, with determination to address racial intolerance, dismantle racial barriers, celebrate diversity and empower residents accepting of racial/ethnic diversity. They founded the North Ottawa Ethnic Diversity Alliance, a grassroots, volunteer-driven non-profit based in the Tri-Cities communities of Grand Haven, Ferrysburg, and Spring Lake. Within two years, NOEDA's programming expanded to meet identified needs in other communities along the lakeshore, including Holland and Muskegon. Renamed the Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance to reflect its broader focus, a full-time executive director and staff were hired. Today, it includes over 200 volunteers and thousands of program participants, supported by a professional staff, dedicated board of directors, a growing number of donors, and over 4,100 residents receiving the organization's e-newsletters.
Specialties
The Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance seeks to dismantle racial, socioeconomic, and institutional barriers to ensure that people of all ethnic backgrounds have equal access and opportunity to participate fully in the life of the community.