“We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.” – Mother Teresa

About

CommonLife equips, trains, and supports individuals and small groups in their companionship of an individual or family throughout and beyond their transition from poverty.
Because “the single greatest cause for sustained poverty in our cities is isolation”1, a person’s success in transitioning from poverty hinges on his/her possession of committed, authentic, and purposed relationships. It’s only within relationships of this kind that the love, encouragement, and support one requires for life growth are found. Unfortunately, many of the relationships that those in poverty know are either broken, destructive, or purely service-oriented. CommonLife exists to bridge the relational gap in anti-poverty services by companioning those in need in their journey toward new life.

CommonLife Volunteer

1. Mobilize a small group of people to serve regularly within an already existing service program caring for those who are poor (e.g. CommonTable, Neighbors United Community Meals, etc.). Orientate your small group before and after each service program toward the end-goal of forming a relationship with someone in need.
2. Small group appoints one or more Companion(s) to serve as CommonLife “point person(s)” and to receive training through inCOMMON (two, two-hour sessions). It is also highly recommended Companion(s) lead small group through the CommonLife Training Manual (usually accomplished in three to six sessions).
3. Once relationship is formed through service program, small group proactively invites new friend (Member) to share in the life of the small group, including:
• Member is to receive discipleship and mentorship from one or more people.
• Small group is to assist Member in addressing his/her/their holistic needs through the CommonLife Support Network.
• Most importantly, small group is to proactively “do community” with Member, both inside and outside of small group setting.

Contact:

Jeff@inCOMMONcd.org for more information, or to get involved!