ASSOCIATED CHURCHES OF FORT WAYNE IND INC
This organization has already been registered
Someone in your organization has already registered and setup an account. would you like to join their team?Profile owner : k****y@a****************s.o*g
Mission Statement
One hand joining another to build bridges by providing for the needs of the community.
About This Cause
The Associated Churches of Fort Wayne and Allen County (AC) was created in 1944 by representatives from 23 churches. Working with Fort Wayne Community Schools, AC established the Weekday Religious Education program which operated continuously until 2010. The Food Bank System began in the summer of 1979 when eight food bank sites were established in response to immediate needs in the community. The Food Bank System has continued to operate and grow continually since that time. Today, AC is a unique faith-based organization that brings together over 13,000 volunteers from over 130 congregations to pray, serve, and work together to improve our community and respond to those in need. Associated Churches works to marshal community resources and volunteers to address priority needs in the community. Our services fall into two focus areas: 1) Basic Needs; 2) Youth and Family Support. BASIC NEEDS: Food and basic support for those most in need Neighborhood Food Network: Assists individuals and families with an ongoing need for essential food support. Food is distributed through 21 local food pantries operated by churches and social service agencies in neighborhoods throughout the community. Military Families: Works with local military units, especially the 122nd Fighter Wing and the 293rd Infantry to provide hardship support for personnel and their families within these units including gas cards, assistance in finding employment, financial support to prevent utility disconnections, and other needs. Provides food for community events and Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for military families. YOUTH AND FAMILY SERVICES: Continuum of care from birth through teenage years A Baby's Closet: Works with families from all areas of the community to help parents develop the skills and knowledge to be effective parents and support the basic needs of infants and toddlers. On-site classes provided in breastfeeding support, safe sleeping, and infant nutrition. Provides referrals for other services including immunizations through Super Shot. Parents earn coupons as an incentive for completing classes, having children immunized, and taking their child to well-baby check-ups. Coupons can then be redeemed at A Baby’s Closet for diapers, cribs, car seats, high chairs, clothing, and other baby and infant items. Rising Stars: Works with elementary schools to provide for specific tangible needs of students and staff including food and clothing for students, books children can take home with them, and school supplies as well as volunteers to assist with activities to help ensure that children come to school ready to learn through tutoring and mentoring programs. Recruits volunteer groups, primarily from local churches, groups, and businesses to partner with individual schools. The Landing: Serves middle and high school students struggling with various issues and feelings of isolation. Trained adult staff and volunteers meet with youth every Wednesday evening in a casual setting that promotes interaction and discussion. Our programs first help families meet basic needs and then help them build the assets they need for long-term self-sufficiency. All programs provide emotional support and referrals to other agencies.