December Update 2009
It’s now the time of year that everyone starts to shop for Christmas gifts and plan for all the normal holiday rush. Sadly, many in our community are experiencing a holiday season devoid of joy and hope for the future. The economic downturn has forced millions of Americans out of work and has sent the unemployment rate in Shelby County north of 10 percent.
In the midst of this economic storm, God has continued to use Uptown Alliance to train men and women for a variety of hospitality and construction industry jobs. So far this year, 46 people have graduated from one of our classes and we currently have a construction class with 20 students. Our friends Grace Evangelical and Germantown United Methodist Churches have been especially generous with their time and resources by sponsoring Jobs in Community (JIC) programs and providing volunteer mentors for graduates. In a year where many nonprofit organizations have closed their doors, God has used this ministry to be the hands and feet of Christ in a greater way than ever before.
In his letter to the Roman Church, the Apostle Paul exhorted the believers to offer their bodies as living sacrifices and called this a spiritual act of worship. This year, believers from many local churches partnered with Uptown Alliance to bless those in need of true hope. As 2009 draws to a close, I would ask you to consider partnering with us as well. On average, it costs approximately $1700 to train one JIC participant. The harvest in Memphis is indeed plentiful. Your partnership will ensure that we shine the light of Jesus Christ to those most desperate for his healing touch.