About Pioneer Resources
A nonprofit serving people with disabilities and seniors across western Michigan since 1955 — seven decades of opening doors.
Our Mission
“Our mission is to help people with disabilities and seniors attain independence and dignity by creating opportunities for participation in the community.”
— Pioneer Resources, Inc. · Est. 1955 · Muskegon, Michigan
- A place to live
- A place to learn
- A way to get there
- A place to grow and play
- A place to dream
Our History
Seven decades of opening doors
A group of parents and educators form an unincorporated association — Pioneer School — providing special education and therapy to children with disabilities in western Michigan.
Late 1940s
The agency becomes a formal 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation under the name Western Michigan Center for Handicapped Children, Inc., formalizing its commitment to the community.
1955
As special education and mental health services grow in the public sector, the organization evolves into Pioneer Resources, expanding into housing, vocational training, and additional therapies.
1970s–1990s
Pioneer Resources adds autism / ABA therapy, Pioneer Trails camp on Big Blue Lake, LARC, and senior enrichment programming — becoming a comprehensive service provider across Muskegon and Ottawa Counties.
2000s–2010s
Pioneer Resources celebrates 70 years, serves 3,089 people, drives 942,000 miles of accessible transport, and opens the new Kendall House SIL home — guided by the 2025–2027 Strategic Plan.
2025
Leadership Team
The people behind the mission
Our leadership team brings expertise in clinical services, operations, finance, and community programs — united by a shared commitment to the people we serve.
Group CLS, vocational services, and autism / ABA
Recreation — Pioneer Trails, LARC, and seniors
Residential services
Transportation
2026 Board of Directors
Pioneer Resources is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors whose members bring expertise in finance, law, community services, and healthcare. We are grateful for their leadership and dedication to our mission.
Officers
Michael Weessies
President
Amanda Van Tubergen
Vice President
Willie Minor
Treasurer
Mary McDonald
Secretary
Directors
Mary Beth Ramos
Director
Michael Rykse
Director
Justin Grill
Director
Terry Sabo
Director
Sandra Baker
Director
Shannon DeLora
Director
Nicole Osborn
Director
Jon Gale
Director
Brad Hastings
Director
Emily Morgenstern
Director
Board members can access meeting materials, governance documents, and reports through the secure board portal.
Career Opportunities
Do work that changes lives every day.
Pioneer Resources employs 150+ dedicated staff across Muskegon and Ottawa Counties. We’re always looking for passionate, caring people to join our team — whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out.
Why work with us
Mission-driven work
Every role — from drivers to clinicians to home managers — directly impacts the independence and dignity of the people we serve.
A team that cares
With 150+ staff across multiple programs, you'll join a community of professionals united by a genuine commitment to people.
Room to grow
From entry-level roles to department directors (plural), Pioneer Resources supports professional development and promotes from within.
West Michigan community
Rooted in Muskegon since 1955, we serve our neighbors — and our team members are part of the same community we love.
Current Opportunities
Volunteer with us
Support our programs with your time and talent. Volunteers make a meaningful difference across all our programs, services and properties.
Quality and Standards
Accreditation and governance
Pioneer Resources is committed to the highest standards of care, accountability, and continuous improvement. Our accreditations, partnerships, and policies reflect that commitment.
CARF International
Pioneer Resources is accredited by CARF International for Community Services and Community Living Services — an independent seal of quality recognised worldwide. Survey results are publicly accessible.
HUD — US Dept of Housing and Urban Development
Pioneer Arbour Apartments and Pioneer House are subsidised through the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, providing accessible, affordable homes for individuals with disabilities and limited income.
HealthWest (formerly Muskegon CMH)
Many of our services are funded through Medicaid and referred through HealthWest, Ottawa County Community Mental Health, and PACE/LifeCircles. These partnerships are central to how we connect people to services.
State of Michigan licensure
Our residential homes are licensed through the State of Michigan Adult Foster Care Licensing, and we are evaluated annually by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, MRS, and Lakeshore Regional Entity.
- Privacy Policy
Pioneer Resources, Inc. is committed to honoring our donors’ privacy. We do not rent, sell, or exchange donor information with others. A donor’s information is recorded only to keep them informed about Pioneer Resources and its ongoing support of individuals with disabilities and seniors. We do not collect personally identifying information about website visitors unless they choose to provide it voluntarily.
We’re here for People with Disabilities and Seniors
Getting started with Pioneer Resources is simple. Whether you’re reaching out for yourself, a family member, or a client, we’ll help you find the right fit.