Our History

A Legacy Begins

Just Love Ministry (JLM) was founded in 1987 by Mrs. Gladys Rutledge Rayford. Peterboro and 2nd Avenue is where it all began. She provided visionary leadership as Just Love’s Executive Director until her untimely death in June of 1997.

During the period of Mrs. Rayford’s leadership her main thrust was the translation of the love of God in tangible and creative ways to less fortunate persons in the downtown Detroit area identified as the Cass Corridor.

Upon Gladys’ death her husband Dr. Vernon Rayford, the Assistant Director, became Executive Director of JLM, seeking to maintain the organization’s purpose of translating the love of God in creative and tangible ways to meet community needs.

Mrs. Gladys Rutledge Rayford

picture of Dr. Vernon Rayford — *Dr. Vernon Rayford*

The changing conditions in the downtown area in 2007 compelled the ministry to move its location to a community/residential setting on the eastside of Detroit. Dr. Rayford met the challenge within this community setting by weekly food distribution, Sunday afternoon worship services followed by hot meals, hosting weekly Alcoholics Anonymous groups, and prayer and counsel as needed.

In late 2013, JLM experienced another transition as Dr. Rayford faced major health challenges and retired shortly afterward from his role as Executive Director. However, Dr. Rayford and JLM volunteers maintained a presence in the community, fulfilling needs of individuals and families until his death in 2017.

picture of Ms. Angela Rayford — *Ms. Angela Rayford*

New Beginnings

JLM restructured in 2015 with the daughter of Dr. Vernon and Mrs. Gladys Rayford, Ms. Angela Rayford at the helm as Executive Director. Under her leadership JLM continued the mission to facilitate the revitalization of Detroit neighborhoods.

Angela, the daughter of the founders and servant leaders of Just Love Ministry, has served in various capacities during its 36 year history, including original board member, cook, food donation sorter/distributor and counselor. In January 2015, she was appointed Executive Director.

Being raised in a home environment which exhibited service to others, Angela was influenced in her professional decision to become a Licensed Social Worker. Her career encompassed serving those suffering with mental illness and substance abuse; returning citizens and un- and underemployed Detroiters pursuing economic stability through help with accessing free education and training opportunities. Today Angela works tirelessly to promote JLM throughout the city and forms relationships that support its mission.

New Directions

She has led many initiatives focusing on the support and development of students at Hutchinson Elementary-Middle School and their families. Under Angela’s leadership JLM has been instrumental in providing food, uniforms, coats and cultural experiences for these students, as well as, providing advisory support to the school administration, and facilitating a partnership with The Detroit Children’s Choir. Director Eric Taylor, led the Hutchinson Choir, and subsequently Hutchinson students became part of The Detroit Children’s Choir.