A Culture of Us

It was 2 a.m. in the middle of a dark church parking lot. But light shone on a couple of women lounging in lawn chairs and chitchatting. A concerned police officer walked up to them and asked, “What are you ladies up to?”  “Just enjoying the evening, officer,” one joyfully replied.

What had begun a few months before as casual conversation with others waiting in line for a food truck had developed into friendships. Debbie and her new friends started meeting earlier to wait together. They shared vulnerabilities in their situations and connected over history, loss and hardship. While grieving the loss of her son, Debbie found a safe place with friends. These friends walked alongside of her during good times and hard times. They even came together over the holidays. Debbie recalls, “For the first time in a long time, I felt safe and not judged.”

One of her friends at the food truck suggested Debbie join Financial Fitness, a Love in Action program designed to empower participants with skills to work toward financial stability. With the support she received in class, Debbie was able to pay off her son’s funeral expense; she made the goal to become debt-free; and she now has money in savings. She began to thrive because she had tangible resources partnered with emotional support and practical solutions.

Debbie’s story reflects the beautiful power of connection. It shows what happens when we find those people who make us feel safe and not judged. We begin to experience community that opens doors and provides support.

Love in Action combines community resources to provide for our neighbors who come to us in need. What’s more, as a community, we cultivate the opportunity to safely share the vulnerability of our situations, connect, and build friendships. We nurture a culture of us.