One of the inCOMMON involvements in the Park Avenue neighborhood is the facilitation and coordination of Neighbors United, an inter-faith group of local faith leaders and parishioners in the Park Avenue neighborhoods working to collaboratively, creatively and dynamically respond in service to the assets, needs and concerns of local neighbors.
Recognizing the dynamic value and importance of the contribution of people of faith in the local context, inCOMMON is committed to cultivating a healthy and active collaboration of Park Avenue area faith leaders.
The purpose of the group is to bring the area inter-faith community together in service to the local neighborhood, each participant being motivated by his or her individual faith perspective to respond relationally in service to pressing local needs, concerns, and assets.
Check out all Neighbors United accomplished in its first year, 2008, by viewing our first anniversary powerpoint presentation, Celebrating 2008.
Community Meals
After a season of dynamic planning, Neighbors United launched the Community Meals, a dual purposed weekly initiative on September 13, 2008. With at least one in four local residents living below the poverty threshold, the offering of a free weekly meal has begun to alleviate the persistent strain of many of our neighbors working multiple jobs just to cover the necessities; however, the purpose of the Community Meals does not end there.
In addition to affronting material poverty, the Community Meals initiative aims to develop relationships and social capital with and among Park Avenue neighbors. With the involvement of over twelve churches and organizations and over 100 volunteers, the Community Meals initiative is naturally building relational bridges and supportive networks leading toward holistic individual and community development. “Building social capital is most importantly a means of building human capital—strengthening the capacities of individuals and families to overcome adversities and create and take advantage of opportunities” — through relationships and the development of intertwined social networks.
WHEN: Every Saturday; 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
WHERE: First Baptist Church, 421 Park Avenue
A meal is served every Saturday from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at First Baptist Church (421 Park Avenue). We warmly invite all neighbors, local parishioners, interested community members come and enjoy a warm meal and the company of each other.
GET INVOLVED: The act of sharing a meal provides a simple, yet prime opportunity for families, neighbors, and the larger community to come together–building true, mutual relationships and developing a greater sense of community around a common table. Each meal is donated, prepared, and served by volunteers from local faith communities; other volunteers come to intentionally build relationships and ensure a warm, hospitable environment.
If you are interested in joining us around the table, there is a place set for you. We have a variety of opportunities of involvement for individuals, families, small groups, etc. ranging from preparing and serving meals to coming on a monthly or more basis simply to relationally engage neighbors. Check out the Community Meals Volunteer Framework here.
Although the Community Meals initiative is incredibly sustainable due to its community driven nature and strong faith community commitment, there are still basic operating expenses. Check out our 2009 Neighbors United Wish List to find out how you can help make the Community Meals initiative possible this year.
Want more information or to get involved?
Contact Brittany Hanson by phone (402) 933-6672 or e-mail brittany@inCOMMONcd.org.
Resources
Neighbors United Documents (PDF)
2010
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