About Us
At Extended Hands, we believe that real healing begins with connection. Rooted in faith and guided by the love of Christ, our mission is to uplift and unite communities across West and Southwest Michigan by building meaningful relationships centered on forgiveness, trust, and compassion. We are committed to creating inclusive spaces and experiences where individuals and families can come together, grow together, and experience the power of community.
Through sustained partnerships, innovative programs, and the generosity of our supporters, Extended Hands delivers impact that reaches far beyond individual events. From initiatives like Fishing with the Po-Po and the Unity Walk to large-scale community celebrations, we create opportunities for connection, healing, and shared experiences that strengthen the bond between residents, families, and local organizations. Together, we are building stronger hands, hearts, and futures—one relationship at a time.
We Believe in a Community-Based Approach
Faith-Centered Community Building
Rooted in Christ, fostering unity, healing, and connection across diverse communities.
Relationship-Driven Impact
Building trust through presence, partnerships, and meaningful shared community experiences.
Service Through Consistent Action
Delivering resources, programs, and support that create measurable impact in our region.
Real Families. Real Impact. Local Focus.
Meet the individuals and families impacted by Extended Hands, where bridges are built linking communities through trust and shared experiences, strengthening cohesion, improving safety, and transforming perceptions across West and Southwest Michigan.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Antwan J. Brown
Mr. Brown found his way to a life he never imagined through a changed mindset, mentoring, and community support. For more than 18 years, he has supported individuals facing barriers, with a focus on justice-involved individuals, connecting them to resources and guiding their re-entry into society. A graduate of Aquinas College (Business Administration & Communications), Antwan currently serves the State of Michigan overseeing Prevention, Harm Reduction, and Opioid Overdose Prevention programming.
Chelsea Knott
Chelsea Knott has built her career through a commitment to community, connection, and expanding access to opportunity. With over a decade of experience supporting individuals and families, she has helped navigate housing, employment, and financial systems. A Community Development Officer at ChoiceOne Bank, Chelsea leads outreach and partnerships that advance financial education and economic mobility across West Michigan.
Craig Hancock
Craig Hancock founded Hancock & Associates in 1999 after more than a decade as a financial planner serving educators, nonprofit organizations, and high-net-worth individuals. A graduate of Appalachian State University, Craig earned his Certified Financial Planner™ designation in 1994 and built the firm around a disciplined, hands-on investment philosophy focused on helping clients pursue long-term financial security through sophisticated planning and ongoing portfolio management. Today, he continues to specialize in investment solutions for individuals, retirement plans, and foundations. Craig lives in West Michigan with his wife, Emily, and their three children. Outside the office, he enjoys golf, soccer, camping, and serving with Young Life, a ministry focused on junior high and high school students.
Latricia Lomax
Latricia Lomax is an entrepreneur and community leader with more than 30 years of service in the Grand Rapids community. As Founder and CEO of the Business Exchange Center, she has supported over 150 entrepreneurs through business incubation, administrative support, and collaborative workspace opportunities. Through her home healthcare agency, she has also created employment opportunities for more than 900 individuals.
She is also the founder of the LEAD Exchange Network, a nonprofit focused on workforce training, mentorship, and opportunities for young people and emerging entrepreneurs. Her work is centered on economic empowerment, sustainable growth, and strengthening the community through long-term investment and leadership.
Captain Catherine Williams
Captain Catherine Williams has dedicated her career to strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. With extensive experience in public safety and community engagement, she leads with a focus on trust, accountability, and collaboration. As a Captain with the Grand Rapids Police Department, she oversees initiatives that promote transparency, enhance community partnerships, and support safer, more connected neighborhoods across the city.
Meet Our Founder & Co-Directors
Pastor Greg Amunga
Founder &
Co-Executive Director
Pastor Greg Amunga has dedicated his ministry to building relationships, strengthening communities, and guiding individuals through faith and connection. With years of pastoral leadership experience, he has led efforts that bring people together through outreach, discipleship, and service.
As Senior Pastor of Uptown Church, Greg leads initiatives that foster unity, bridge relationships between community and law enforcement, and create lasting impact across West Michigan.
Pastor Lyonel LaGrone II, MBA, MAML
Co-Executive Director
Lyonel LaGrone II has dedicated his life to ministry, leadership, and strengthening the Church’s role in community transformation. With over 25 years of experience, he has equipped individuals and congregations through discipleship, teaching, and outreach.
As Associate Pastor of Uptown Church and Co-Executive Director of Extended Hands, Lyonel leads efforts that foster healing, justice, and meaningful community engagement across the region. Lyonel holds a Bachelors of Arts in social science from Aquinas College, an MBA in management from Strayer University, and a masters of arts in ministry leadership from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary of Cornerstone University.
Mary Amunga
Director, Women's Programming
Mary is passionate about walking alongside individuals and families on their journey toward healing, wholeness, and restoration. With over 15 years of lived experience and ministry as a pastor’s wife, she brings compassion and wisdom to her work.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership from Cornerstone University and serves as Director of Women's Programming at Extended Hands. Her approach is rooted in coaching and empowerment—helping people recognize and walk in the gifts God has placed within them.