Dear Friends and Partners,
inCommon's 2009 Staff
As the end of the year quickly approaches we would love to share with you some of the joys your support has made possible! Throughout 2009, inCommon Community Development has been blessed to share in the lives of so many extraordinary people facing such great challenges. Only by the grace of God have we been able to experience new life in both our neighbors and neighborhoods through community-based, gospel-motivated relationships – or, as we like to put it, in the work (and gift) of “transforming communities through community!”
One of the most vibrant examples of God’s blessings and faithfulness is our friend John’s story. John has struggled through challenges which are common to many. He grew up in an instable, impoverished family environment and was exposed at a very young age to drugs, both in his home and in his neighborhood. John became actively involved in these activities, which included stealing to support his unhealthy lifestyle. He eventually dropped out of high school, developed a serious addiction, and found himself in prison.
John with Tyler and Jodi Cooper
John became involved with inCommon after his release from jail while he was staying at a local homeless shelter. As time went on, John found himself immersed in a supportive, Christ-centered community. He developed a natural friendship with Tyler & Jodi Cooper as they pursued an intentional relationship with him (as part of inCommon’s CommonLife ministry).
*Please visit our website to take a look at our inCommon promotional video featuring John & the Coopers!
John continued to struggle with addiction, but he began to notice a change in himself. He began to see that the Coopers were committed to being in a supportive, and sometimes confrontational, relationship with him no matter his failings or choices. As John says, “My community at [inCommon] stuck with me through my relapse and mistakes, I began to spend time in the Word, and most importantly, I began to look to God as the source of the love and acceptance I needed so badly.”
Today, after nearly a year in a rehab program, John is nearing completion of his GED and this week will be reinstating his driver’s license, as a first step in securing employment. He remains actively involved with inCommon’s ministries and desires to help others who have experienced addiction and poverty by sharing the Gospel and inviting them to also join inCommon’s ministries.
It is through the continued support of inCommon’s volunteers and donors that John was able to turn his life around. His story is a reminder that supportive relationships and human connections are an essential and often overlooked aspect of helping an individual transition out of poverty.
In this season of giving, we ask that you prayerfully consider making a first time or continued donation of any amount to inCommon. We can’t express enough how much we value and appreciate your love and support. Thank you so much for being part of this movement of “transforming communities through community” with us!
If you would like a free inCommon magnet, please send your mailing address to info@incommoncd.org and we will put one in the mail!
