The What and Why:
Houston is one of the most diverse and prosperous cities in America. However, the city also struggles with growing income inequality. Families and institutions are under economic, political, and social pressures that threaten the well-being of our communities. According to the Federal Reserve Board (2017), 40% of families in the U.S. cannot cover a $400 emergency expense. Keeping families safe, healthy, and optimistic is increasingly challenging as economic and political pressures grow and safety nets diminish. Issues of a broken immigration system, underfunding of education, limited healthcare access and affordability, and inadequate infrastructure are evidence of a society being powerfully organized by people with special interests that work against our hope of a thriving community for all.

History shows that the most effective way to create change is to build relational power and empower individuals through institutional organizing. This model of organizing might be new to you and your congregation but is has been used effectively across the nation as a way to involve citizens in key decisions influencing their communities. This training series is designed to help leaders understand why these political, social, and economic pressures have become so prevalent in our community and capture the transformative power of West Houston congregations working together to rebuild the social fabric of Houston.

The When:
The training series will take place in 2-hour sessions on three Sundays in March. It is essential to attend all three sessions as each will build upon the others. The trainings will be a mix of lecture, interactive discussion, and relational meetings.

Training Schedule:
All sessions will be held at First Congregational Church, 10840 Beinhorn Rd, Houston, TX 77024
• Sunday, March 10 – 4pm-6pm - Assembly Room
• Sunday, March 17 - 4pm-6pm - Assembly Room
• Sunday, March 24 - 4pm-6pm - CE Classroom

The Who:
This training is best suited for institutional leaders. Executive directors, clergy, and lay leaders are invited to attend. This training is focused on Northwest, West, and Southwest Houston. Institutions may include schools, nonprofits, neighborhood organizations, clinics, faith institutions, etc.

Curious about what you’ll learn? Click below to see an example.
Toward a Democratic Culture, Ernesto Cortes Jr.