Niagara Gospel Mission Executive Director Cooper receives award from Niagara University

Niagara Gospel Mission press release

Niagara Gospel Mission announced Executive Director the Rev. John A. Cooper Jr. has received the Thomas A. Judge, C.M. Award from Niagara University, recognizing his leadership and Niagara Gospel Mission’s commitment to serving men and women experiencing homelessness, poverty, addiction, and other significant challenges throughout Niagara County.

The award recognizes work that reflects the Vincentian commitment to serving those in need and strengthening the surrounding community. Under Cooper’s leadership, Niagara Gospel Mission has sought to put those same principles of compassionate service into action through practical assistance, Gospel-centered care, and programs focused on long-term life change.

“This award may have my name on it, but it belongs to the entire Niagara Gospel Mission family,” Cooper said. “Every day, our staff, volunteers, churches, donors and community partners come alongside men and women who are walking through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. We believe every person who comes through our doors should be treated with dignity, compassion and hope, while also being given an opportunity to pursue lasting change.”

Niagara Gospel Mission serves individuals from throughout Niagara County through its emergency shelter, residential recovery and discipleship programming, transitional services, meals, clothing assistance, biblical counseling, employment preparation, and other programs designed to help people move toward stability and independence.

NFM is also preparing for the opening of its new women’s center, which will expand its ability to serve women experiencing homelessness and provide both emergency shelter and long-term recovery services. The project represents another major step in its commitment to meeting critical needs while addressing the deeper circumstances that can contribute to homelessness.

Cooper has emphasized NGM’s approach is built on more than simply providing services. Its goal is to combine compassionate care with accountability, relationships and opportunities for genuine transformation.

“We are grateful to Niagara University for this recognition and for its longstanding commitment to serving our community,” Cooper said. “We share a conviction that caring for our neighbors – especially those who are poor, vulnerable or overlooked – is an essential responsibility. Niagara County is stronger when organizations throughout our community work together to serve people with dignity and purpose.”

For more information about the Niagara Gospel Mission, the Niagara Gospel Country Club leadership program, or ways to partner with NGM, visit www.niagaragospelmission.org or call 716-205-8805. NGM is a 501 (c)(3) Christian nonprofit providing services to the homeless and poor of WNY. Visit niagaragospemission.org to learn more.