CONNECT | BUILD | EMPOWER
Elevate: A Christian Community Development Framework
Scripture Union’s ELEVATE is a framework for Christian based community development work. It emphasises the importance of relationships, community development, teamwork and partnerships. The framework is based on observing Jesus at work in his community, and the use of well tried strategic principles.
ELEVATE recognises that people are at different places and different stages in their life. When we meet them on that journey, with the desire to see them move to a deeper understanding of themselves, their community and their world, we must understand the different relational dynamics that are at play as we engage with them.
ELEVATE is a framework which guides the development of unique program strategies which open up these relational spaces and dynamics that will help people to understand their emotional, social and spiritual journey.
Through the work of ELEVATE, children and young people have stronger community connections, build positive values and resiliency, and are empowered to transform their world.
There are 6 identifiable key principles behind the ELEVATE Ministry Framework
1. The change potential of Community Development
2. The significance of experiences
3. The difference reflection makes
4. The centrality of relationships
5. The importance of teamwork and community
6. Invitational and intentionally transformational
ELEVATE is based on 4 key ways to engage people. We call these ‘relational spaces’ which are appropriately named ‘Connect In, Connect Out, Community Action, and Community Interaction’. The spaces are not necessarily locations, but they may be influenced by the location. Relational spaces are a combination of interpersonal ingredients that set up a particular relational dynamic.
SUSA is right now seeking to build teams that will bridge the gap between the church and the local community. Any project focussed on meeting local needs, with the desire to lovingly share the gospel, is a project of interest to us. We can help you put legs on your desire to reach your community with the life and message of Jesus Christ.
If you’re interested in doing something in your community then contact us – we would love to hear from you!