A History of Service
Around the year 2000, Weld County Colorado became one of the fastest growing counties in the United States. Along with this growth, the stress of high living costs created a growing “working poor” community – people working, yet one paycheck away from the inability to pay bills. Additionally, when a family experienced an emergency situation, they were thrust into a crisis situation.
This was reflected in our community – United Way 211 call requests nearly tripled since 2004, and were up to 6,700 in three month period. Churches also felt this changing situation. One church went from four walk-ins per month to 25 per month.
In February 2005, a group of Ministers, United Way 211 and individuals met to discuss solutions to this alarming trend. Due to the delicate nature of church, government, and agency relations in our community, the logical route was to begin a 501c (3) non-profit organization. Thus, the Faith Community Service Fund was born. Since July 2005, the Faith Community Service Fund’s mission was “a faith collaboration serving to empower those in need.” This allowed “Faith Fund” to serve collaboratively with churches, businesses, United Way 211, and organizations seeking to address needs of our community. By providing financial assistance and counseling to families, hundreds of families have been able to receive emergency assistance along with personal connection to other agencies serving particular needs. Faith Fund received the Volunteer of Excellence Award in the year 2007.
One way to connect families and make relationships is our Bridges of Hope nights, held monthly. Finally, FaithNet is the vehicle by which the church can access resources and become equipped to start and maintain programs to reach people and promote lasting change.
By becoming a part of the local church, rather than existing outside of it, FaithNet helps to establish the presence of hope within the community. We also act as a support system to the leadership of the church by providing administration, counseling, resources, on-site coaching and training to help mobilize church members to serve in reaching their community.
