COMMUNITY Development: REBUILD

Unfortunately, much of our culture has been influenced by individualism resulting in a lack of communal support. At Oak Tree we are getting back to the basics of neighboring. It is too easy to forget that we are responsible for one another and that we are stronger together. That is why we are intentionally relationship focused. We want to know more than just names, we want to know one another’s stories, and write new stories together.
We acknowledge that we are in a community that has been marginalized and has suffered from a lack of resources. Oak Tree serves as a bridge to connect our neighbors with partners around our city to meet any needs that may arise. We know that we won’t have the skill or resources to meet every need in our community on our own, but when we work together, we can make a much greater impact.
The daily needs that arise from injustice and poverty can be overwhelming. While we aim to support our community in every way possible with available resources, we don’t want to stop there. We aim to expand our capacity so that we can be a part of community development that will not only address areas of need, but will honor the desires, culture, and leadership of our neighbors.

Training videos:

SPENT simulation used in the video: HERE.
Test your knowledge of the hidden rules of class. How well could you survive?: HERE.
Generous Justice: How God’s Grace Makes Us Just by Timothy Keller
Restoring at Risk Communities: Doing It Together and Doing It Right by John Perkins
Read more about Christian Community Development Philosophy HERE.