Partnerships Can Change Lives

This may seen like an oxymoron. Yet, the subtle changes may not always be evident.
The following are two stellar examples.
One is a church that partners with an popular national chain grocery store that is known for its organic brands. Each week the store donates thousands of dollars in food. The church prepares a meal once a week. After lunch, participants have the option to select their own groceries without cost. Too many programs focus on  handouts and may never know the outcome. This group shares a meal together every week. They develop relationships and take an interest in others'. Many grocery recipients are people who want to work or contribute, but they've hit a rough patch. That might be a temporary job loss, serious medical concern or other dilemma. While it is true that a few participants are just along for a free ride, others have used the savings to pay medical bills, save enough for an elementary school child to attend Summer Camp with peers, tough it out a few months until they have another paycheck. The real value is dignity and new found relationships. People genuinely care. It is a place where healing takes place. And it is a stable place where people can rebuild their lives without fear of judgment.

The other is a nonprofit that houses international students. The program is unique. The design is highly successful in that 98% of students return to serve as national leaders in their country of origin. This is in contrast to 50% nationwide. Partners include one or more colleges in Portland, but also overseas partners. This nonprofit also delivers high quality intensive training in Africa and Latin America to equip new leaders in their homeland.

What makes these partnerships unique? There are many food programs all over the country. Many persons are served efficiently and some with dignity. The unique factor is the caring relationships. The other is also unique. Why so? Again there are many housing arrangements for college students, even international students. However, again the design is the relational aspect. It is a place of peace and respect where international students don't just have a room, but work out relationship dynamics which gives them tremendous insight into the lives of others'. Like the U.S., the Middle East and New Zealand have diverse religious and ethnic populations, yet the Middle East has been at war for hundreds of years, and New Zealand has a high suicide rate, especially among teenagers. This seems to indicate that it takes more than a casual exposure to living with diverse populations. Indeed respect is intentional. It is built into the design, nurtured and refined. In the end, students emerge as whole people able to bring healing, help and hope as they return home.

Partnerships can be static or life changing.