Community Protectors: Poverty and Racism as Christian Calls to Action

The YMCA of the Coosa Valley in the U.S. will bring together diverse groups in small Christian communities under a common goal to overcome economic and racial divides. There is a strong belief that an individual's personal choices cause their economic circumstances: for example, that wealth comes from having faith in God. To change these misconceptions, the YMCA and Savannah Miles will partner with local pastors to present common Christian callings on eliminating poverty and racism to members of local churches. They will also provide education and training to build relationships between diverse church members and equip them with skills and tools to collectively act to overcome shared challenges. Finally, they will form a council that will meet to discuss broad-based issues and build a community action and dissemination plan.