Welcome Jay!

“Gateway Mission has been a beacon of hope for over 115 years. I commend Darryl Bartlett’s faithful service and leadership for the past three decades. I am humbled by the opportunity to lead Gateway as we meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our community with the love of Jesus Christ.” -Jay Riemersma

Gateway Mission Board of Directors is honored to announce Jay Riemersma as new Executive Director of Gateway Mission. 

During his brief tenure as Interim Executive Director, Riemersma has nurtured leadership and demonstrated an intense passion for the ministry. His expertise in the fields of development, donor relations, and operations coupled with a team focus in demonstrating the love of God to the community of West Michigan and beyond will help to further advance the mission of Gateway. Riemersma’s professional career began over 25 years ago when he was drafted into the NFL as a seventh-round pick with the Buffalo Bills. After an injury ended his nine year career, he began working as a Regional Director of Development for Family Research Council (FRC), a national public policy organization committed to advancing faith, family and freedom. Riemersma completed his tenure with FRC as a Senior Director of Development in 2022. 

“This is so clearly the work of our God, the King of the Universe, as he has provided for Gateway Mission for such a time as this” said Gateway Mission Board Chair, Bryan Linn. “We are grateful to God for Jay, and we are grateful to Jay for the energy, passion, and leadership that he will bring to this organization which will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the students, staff, donors, and our community at large.” 

Effective immediately, Riemersma will manage day to day operations for Gateway Mission. Riemersma resides in Holland with his wife Cara and their three children, Sophie, Trip, and Nick. They are active members of Parkside Bible Church.

Meet our Mission

Gateway Mission will host a Meet Our Mission event on Wednesday, March 15th at 7am for donors and community members to meet Riemersma. A light breakfast will be served with a time of Q&A to follow. Tickets are free but registration is requested. Visit www.hopefoundhere.org/meetourmission.