Our priorities

OCCDA loves Benton HarborOur main focus is simple: Benton Harbor, Michigan.
We have strong hopes and dreams to see God’s love poured into the city by putting our hope in action. We strive to break down the economic and racial disparities in Benton Harbor and its surrounding communities through community development.

Currently the OCCDA is prioritizing
two of the four pillars of community development:

  • EDUCATION
  • JOB CREATION

Our strategic focus is to see every Benton Harbor resident is prepared for further education, life and work, while experiencing Christ’s love.

The OCCDA continues to create transformational initiatives and partnerships that encourage, equip and empower the people of the community to reach their greatest potential. Knowing all people are created with a plan, purpose and value, the OCCDA believes that lasting change happens through people who understand, accept and embrace themselves, God and others.

The community of Benton Harbor, St. Joseph and surrounding areas of Berrien County, Michigan hold incredible potential. We believe that this area will become a model for change, reconciliation and healing throughout other parts of the world.

The OCCDA Is a 501 (3) (c) nondenominational ministry organization committed to address and reconcile long-standing racial and economic polarization in the Benton Harbor/St. Joseph communities.

What makes the OCCDA different from a typical association of churches?

The OCCDA is a faith based, non-denominational organization focused on Community Development.
Community development’s four pillars are:  1) Job Creation, 2) Housing, 3) Education, 4) Health Care.

The OCCDA is working in partnership with individuals, churches, and other organizations in order to address the needs of our community.  Our vision for collaboration and partnership extends beyond the local church and serves as a vehicle for many to participate. Job creation is one of the great needs currently and we are wholeheartedly pursuing this pillar in our first few years through our social businesses. Education too, is being addressed through Schools of Hope  and mentoring initiatives in our social enterprise programs, Mosaic and Harbor Shine.

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Benton Harbor Building


Our Mission

Empower our community to work together towards peace and prosperity

Our Purpose

Build community through creative social action and business initiatives


Mosaic Volunteer


Beyond the facts: people

  • “The environment I grew up in, I’ve always been seen as a thug – he ain’t gonna be nothin’. Nothin’ but a hoodlum. But you’re somebody here.”

    Eric Williams, Mosaic Volunteer

  • “We’re all on the same page. We want what’s best for these communities and we can work together to see those things accomplished. It’s much more effective than working alone.”

    Rev. David Colp, First Church of God