WS Chronicle

Across underserved communities, churches have long stood as places of healing, hop and transformation. But what if these churches, rather than working in isolation, joined forces with neighborhood associations, nonprofits, businesses and local agencies to create real, systemic change? Imagine the power of collaborative action in tackling issues such as housing, education, youth development and economic stability – not just for the short term, but for generational impact. 

Life of Victory in Christ Ministries Community Development Corporation (LVCM) is answering that call through its Church in the Streets Initiative – a movement that unites churches, local leaders and organizations to build stronger, more connected communities. This initiative is more than a program – it’s a call to action that shifts the focus from competition to collaboration, ensuring that real relationships are formed between residents and the faith-based, nonprofit and civic groups working alongside them. 

To officially launch this year’s initiative, LVCM invites the entire community to come together for a day of unity, learning and relationship-building at the 2025 Church in the Streets Kickoff. The event will be March 21 at Fairview Park, 801 Bethlehem Lane, in Winston-Salem.   

This free event will offer residents, churches and community organizations the chance to: 

*Learn more about the Church in the Streets Initiative and how to be part of the movement. 

*Connect with local churches, nonprofits, businesses and community leaders. 

*Participate in interactive activities that foster trust and collaboration. 

*Enjoy live music and an uplifting, inclusive atmosphere. 

*Share a meal together, celebrating unity and envisioning a future built on collective impact. 

More Than an Event – A Movement to Strengthen Communities 

The Church in the Streets Initiative is not about simply providing resources – it’s about building deep, lasting relationships that empower communities from within. This initiative is rooted in trust-building, ensuring that residents are not just recipients of support, but active participants in shaping solutions for their neighborhoods. 

A Holistic, Health-Based Approach to Change 

Addressing community challenges requires more than just good intentions – it demands a holistic, strategic and health-centered approach. Through collaborations between faith communities, nonprofit organizations and civic leaders, this initiative focuses on tackling the root causes of poverty, lack of opportunity, and disconnection by ensuring that every resident has access to stable housing and economic development, educational support and early childhood development, youth programs and workforce development, and health and wellness resources.   

By shifting the focus from short-term aid to long-term transformation, the Church in the Streets Initiative helps neighborhoods move beyond survival and into a future where they thrive. 

A Call to Collaborate – Not Compete 

For too long, well-meaning organizations have worked in silos, unintentionally competing for resources instead of leveraging their collective power. The Church in the Streets Initiative is committed to breaking down these barriers, fostering a culture of collective action, and ensuring that communities receive sustained, unified support. 

Instead of waiting for a perfect, one-size-fits-all solution, this initiative embraces adaptive learning, allowing communities to try new approaches, refine them and continuously build on progress – ensuring real, lasting impact. 

Join the Movement – Be a Part of the Change 

The Church in the Streets Initiative is an opportunity for churches, nonprofits, businesses and community members to come together, build trust and create a model for collective impact that can be replicated in neighborhoods across the country. 

“This is not just another event; it’s a movement rooted in people, relationships and action,” says Rev. Kenneth Holly, president of LVCM. “We invite everyone – faith leaders, community advocates, business owners and residents – to join us, to step into the streets, and to work together toward a future where every community is strong, connected and thriving.” 

Come celebrate with us, enjoy a meal, engage in meaningful conversations and take part in a movement that’s reshaping how communities work together. 

For more information on the Church in the Streets Initiative and how to get involved, contact LVCM at partnerships@lvcmcdc.org or visit www.lvcmcdc.org.