Building Community Partnerships

Three dozen area pastors and educators met at Living Word Christian Center on Thursday March 19 for lunch and an open discussion of the challenges and opportunities facing churches and schools in our communities.

Limited Resources
Cuts in state aid to our school districts coupled with the economic downturn are causing under resourced school districts to tighten their belts. A failed budget referendum in a nearby district has forced the closure of three schools. These circumstances create an opportunity for churches to positively impact their communities by partnering to support our public schools.

Service Opportunity
Called "the greatest missional thinker" of our times, Ed Stetzer, in his book Comeback Churches, reported that 3500 – 4000 churches close every year in America. Stetzer concluded that churches that will reach out to their communities with a relevant presence are the ones that will survive.

After a delicious luncheon there were presentations of best practices by Dave Lowe, Executive Pastor of Edinbrook Church, Tommy Watson, Principal of Palmer Lake Elementary School in Brooklyn Park and Suzette Erickson, Principal of Crestview Elementary School in Brooklyn Park. Examples of homework helpers, an after school junior golf program and food distribution to needy families all contributed to the idea exchange.

Partnership Results
This timely forum revealed that many schools are open to partnering with non-profits for help in bridging the gap in public funding. In addition, churches looking to gain relevance and positive exposure will create opportunities for community outreach.

New alliances were established between ministers and principals and everyone left the meeting with a greater appreciation for the value of partnering for mutual benefit.