A friend recently asked me, “Kyle, where are you sensing momentum in your work these days?” This question came at just the right time. While my to-do lists seem to grow exponentially by the day, this question helped me focus on the exciting things happening at SLF right now.
When I think about momentum I think about individuals regularly gathering to pursue the health and well-being of our community. Momentum at SLF looks like connecting, resourcing and mobilizing networks of neighbors, churches and nonprofits for the flourishing of everyone in our community. On a spiritual level, momentum is evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit to gather, empower, and send to build Shalom.
We are seeing momentum in the SLF Development Cohort where 35 nonprofit professionals gather on monthly basis to learn best practices in fundraising from local leaders. As fundraising professionals become more connected, resourced, and mobilized, they can help their cause become more sustainable so crucial services can be provided every day in our community.
We are seeing momentum in the Churches as Neighborhood (CaN) Centers Network. Every month 65 leaders gather from churches, social services agencies, schools, and nonprofits to network and collaborate with one another to meet the unique needs of the neighborhoods in Salem/Keizer. This year we focused on church and school partnerships, opening childcare centers, and how best to love and serve our neighbors experiencing homelessness. New partnerships and collaborations are being launched in all these areas!
We are seeing momentum in the Neighborhood Partnership Teams (NPT) Network. Over 100 grassroots leaders gather at 5 monthly meetings to learn about a neighborhood or community initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and members can submit funding requests for local projects. The NPT Network recently organized the delivery of over 6,000 (full-size) pies to every SKPS employee!
Join us as we share more stories of momentum at the SLF Community Celebration on Friday, May 29th. Our theme this year is Building Bridges. These free events (details on back) will celebrate SLF’s 30th year of service and seeking the Shalom of our community.
For the Shalom of the City,
Kyle Dickinson
Executive Director