Thank You for Showing Up

Thank you for showing up for our nextdoor neighbors.

Numbers can speak. Here’s the scope of what has been happening since Creekside UCC began our supportive presence for the residents of Creekside Commons on December 3:

99

Creeksiders and some friends have provided a supportive presence to our neighbors in Creekside Commons who were worried about the dangers present when ICE descended on our city.

65

have taken two or more 4 1/2-hour shifts across the 69 days between December 3 and February 28, the time during which Creekside has been committed to providing a supportive presence. An additional 34 volunteers have shown up for our neighbors for one shift.

Everyone’s commitments have meant that…

1,100+

hours have been offered in this ministry with our neighbors through these challenging weeks for our city and state.

There haven’t been any incidents or confrontations as our volunteers have provided support by being present in the Creekside Commons lobby each day. Instead, volunteers have enjoyed the quiet time or the change to get to know—or get reacquainted with—Creekside Commons residents.

At the time of writing, we have not determined with Creekside Commons residents how long to continue this ministry. Whenever it concludes, we already know it has reignited and sparked new connections between the church and our neighbors in Creekside Commons. Creeksiders have also gotten to know fellow congregants better. Some have paired up with a close friend and turned it into an extended visit. Many have also used shift changes to get to know Creeksiders they hadn’t previously known well.

These connections, along with the support offered to residents and the insights gained from the experiences, have made the entire effort worthwhile. Thanks to everyone who has made—and is making—this important ministry possible.