Muskegon Rescue Mission Announces Matt Kooi as Next President

Matt currently serves as the Mission’s Vice President of Programming, where he has played an important role in leading and overseeing the programs that serve individuals and families throughout our community.

Matt brings more than 20 years of ministry leadership experience, including serving as a Youth Pastor, nine years as President of Spectrum Ministries, and the past four years at Muskegon Rescue Mission as Vice President of Programming.

As a native of Muskegon and graduate of Muskegon High School, Matt has a personal connection to the community and to the Mission that extends across generations. Matt‘s family has a long history with Muskegon Rescue Mission, including family members who have served as employees and volunteers throughout the Mission’s history.

In this new role, Matt will build upon the strong foundation already established at Muskegon Rescue Mission while providing continued leadership and consistency across the Mission’s programs and services.

Most importantly, Matt brings a deep commitment to Christ-centered ministry and a desire to see individuals and families escape poverty spiritually, emotionally, and financially. 

Roger Doctor

Chair, Board of Directors

“We are excited to welcome Matt into this next season of leadership at Muskegon Rescue Mission. Matt already understands the heart of this ministry, knows our programs and our team, and has a deep love for the Muskegon community. We believe God has prepared Matt for this opportunity, and we look forward to seeing how God continues to lead the Mission in the years ahead.”

Dan Skoglund

President 

As Muskegon Rescue Mission prepares for this next chapter, we remain deeply grateful for Dan Skoglund’s faithful leadership and 16 years of service to the Mission.

During his years of leadership, Dan has helped strengthen and expand Muskegon Rescue Mission’s ability to serve our community. Among the many accomplishments during his tenure are the development of Bright Futures Daycare & Preschool and the Community Resource Center, along with multiple capital campaigns that have made improvements to our shelter spaces and pantry possible.

Dan’s leadership has helped position the Mission for continued growth and ministry, creating a strong foundation for the future.

Dan will continue serving alongside us as President Emeritus through the end of 2028, providing wisdom, support, and continuity throughout the transition.

Leadership & Ministry Experience

• Currently serves as Vice President of Programming at Muskegon Rescue Mission
• Previously served as Discipleship Director at Muskegon Rescue Mission
• Currently serving as a Youth Pastor
• Previously served nine years as President of Spectrum Ministries

A Heart for Muskegon

Matt is a native Muskegon resident and graduate of Muskegon High School. His connection to Muskegon Rescue Mission is also deeply personal, with multiple generations of Matt‘s family having served the Mission as employees and volunteers.

That history has given Matt a unique appreciation for the Mission’s legacy and a deep love for the Muskegon community.

“It is a tremendous honor to have the opportunity to serve Muskegon Rescue Mission in this role. This ministry has been part of my life and my family’s story for generations, and my heart for Muskegon runs deep. I’m grateful for the opportunity to build on the strong foundation that has been established, serve alongside an incredible team, and continue pointing people toward the hope and love of Jesus Christ.”

Why was Matt selected as the next President?

The Board of Directors selected Matt following a thoughtful and prayerful search process. Matt‘s experience within Muskegon Rescue Mission, understanding of the Mission’s programs and ministry, leadership experience, deep connection to Muskegon, and commitment to Christ-centered service made Matt a strong fit to lead the Mission into its next chapter.

What does this mean for Muskegon Rescue Mission’s programs?

The Mission’s commitment to serving individuals and families experiencing hunger, homelessness, and poverty remains unchanged. Matt‘s experience as Vice President of Programming provides a strong understanding of the Mission’s existing programs and services, allowing for consistency as leadership transitions.

What will happen during the leadership transition?

The transition will happen gradually and intentionally. Dan Skoglund will continue serving with Muskegon Rescue Mission as President Emeritus through the end of 2028 while working alongside Matt to provide continuity, share knowledge, and help prepare him for the role of President.

What does this mean for Dan Skoglund?

After 16 years of service to Muskegon Rescue Mission, Dan is beginning his transition away from executive leadership and toward retirement. We are deeply grateful for his years of faithful service and the foundation he has helped build.

Dan will remain involved as President Emeritus through the end of 2028 during the transition to help ensure a smooth transfer of leadership.

How can I support Muskegon Rescue Mission during this transition?

Please continue to pray for Matt, Dan, our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, donors, and the individuals and families we serve.

We are grateful for your continued partnership as Muskegon Rescue Mission enters this next chapter of ministry and service.

While leadership is changing, our commitment remains the same: to demonstrate and proclaim God’s love by offering food, shelter, clothing, and life-changing programs to those in need.

We are grateful for all God has done through Muskegon Rescue Mission’s history, thankful for the faithful leadership that has brought us to this moment, and excited to see what He has ahead.