The first event was held at the Brazos Center on Thursday November 10th.
This event gathered concerned citizens, clergy, and non-profit leaders for a profitable discussion about some of the growing social problems in the Brazos Valley. Also at the Summit, we highlighted opportunities where people can collaborate or get more involved in serving.
Why Have a Service Summit?
The need for this Summit is great because poverty is spreading across our region.
- Recent studies conducted by the city of Bryan, for example show that the poverty rate is rising at 4 times the national average.
- According to Brazos Valley Council of Governments Workforce Board 32 percent of families in Brazos County make less that $20,000 a year.
- In College Station 32 percent of students receive free and reduced lunch. In real numbers, a family of 4 can make no more than $559 a week to qualify for free lunch.
The causes of poverty are obviously complex, but one unfortunate result is that many well-meaning individuals, who want to help and are full of compassion, remain disconnected from the plight of a rising number of people in our own backyard. They know neither who to serve or how best to be involved. Family Promise is hoping that the Service Summit will give leaders good information and create a context where our community can work together and make a difference in these trends.
This event is hosted by
Family Promise, a local ministry to homeless families in Bryan and College Station, is organizing Service Summit. Come and see what is happening in our community and how you can join with others to make a difference.
