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Tools for Transformation
Networks Make Good Things Happen
To best serve young people and families, partner organizations must know what is available and how to get it to those in need. In response, Vision Albany provides Tools for Transformation leadership training programs, such as Vision to Reality (VTR), which give local leaders the skills to develop ministry vision and pull together the resources that can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Solid Training in Community Development VTR training can cover the following activities: setting goals, mobilizing volunteers, fund raising, building community ministries, identifying community resources and needs, developing a board, applying for nonprofit status, and designing programs. Although Tools for Transformation creates capable leaders, World Vision remains close by to consult on such matters as creating programs, leadership development, grant writing, and property purchases.The 16 graduates from the last VTR training session wasted no time in putting their new knowledge to use. The visible results can be seen in the community through involved leaders as well as in a successful project that created affordable housing for 50 low-income families. In December 2001, the first Community Ministry Council training session drew 14 church leaders to learn about World Vision and its Vision Youth initiative, and the council’s role in the community.
The council is comprised of 28 ministry partners who serve as the advisory body to Vision Albany. Sixteen partners come from churches, seven represent faith-based organizations, and five come from community organizations. All council partners contribute financially to support Vision Albany programs.
Educating and training community partners helps to create long-lasting programs that can be sustained by the community. Last year, more than 150 individuals received community development training and technical assistance from Vision Albany.
Celebration of Christian Unity
Joyce Bryant was raised in an all-black community in Georgia and grew up with some serious prejudices. She blamed the white “system” for all past injustices and current problems that range from drug abuse to unemployment. Joyce had a hefty chip on her shoulder. But that chip is being splintered and blown away since the Rev. Jimmy Ewings of Vision Albany invited her to join the Unity Chorus, an arm of the Celebration of Christian Unity ministry.
“When we sing I feel good, and somehow, the color of our skin or our past does not matter. We are together to worship and praise and give thanks to our Father for the great things he has done for us in Jesus Christ,” she said, adding, “Thank you, God, for the great fellowship with new brothers and sisters and the changes in my heart.”
A foundational aspect of Vision Albany’s work involves racial reconciliation. To that end, Vision
Albany has supported the Celebration of Christian Unity (CCU), which unites local pastors from diverse ethnic groups for monthly prayer and fellowship. Forty-two pastors currently meet to discuss differences and promote reconciliation through citywide events, such as a summer picnic and other bridge-building activities. In February, CCU sponsored a citywide service
that attracted more than 200 worshipers from 25 diverse churches in the Albany community for
fellowship at First United Methodist Church. Those participating reaffirmed their commitment to bringing down the walls that have separated pastors and churches for too long.
You Can Be a Vision Albany Partner
Vision Albany invites you to become a partner in effecting long-term, sustainable change for those in need. You can provide volunteer services that help to lift children and families out of
poverty, or offer financial support for these vital programs. For example:
• A gift of $100 a year will help distribute clothing and toys to families in need.
• A donation of $100 a year will help support racial reconciliation efforts and promote unity
in Albany.
• A contribution of $125 a year will help train leaders to better serve their community and transform lives.
• A one-time gift of $25 to $50 will put school supplies in the hands of at-risk children in the
community.
• A one-time donation of $500 to $1,000 will help support a variety of the activities listed here.
Thank you for considering to be a partner of Vision Albany, where your participation and compassion can help change lives.
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| Vision Youth Help provide tutoring, life skills training, and a caring relationship to high-risk youth. | | ||
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| The Storehouse Provide school supplies, clothes, toys, household goods and building supplies for strengthening families,schools and neighborhoods. | | ||
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| Tools for Transformation Help provide the organizational, planning and leadership tools to transform a neighborhood. | | ||
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Read about the Tools for Transformation Program in our regional offices by clicking on the name below. |
