The Movement of Hope

~to end homelessness for all children and youth~

In partnership with organizations and communities across the state, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is committed to stir up a Movement of Hope to ensure that every child and youth in Minnesota has a safe, supportive place to live.

This Movement of Hope seeks to bring our communities together so we can publicly express our hopes and visions for children and youth. In a statement of principles guiding this effort, " A Common Foundation--Shared Principles for Overcoming Poverty," Minnesota faith leaders begin with the following challenge: "We believe we are all called to work to overcome poverty..." This prophetic statement of principles and commitment prompted the 2006 Minnesota Legislature to create a Legislative Commission to End Poverty by 2020, an important step to coordinate efforts statewide for the good of all--especially for vulnerable children and youth.

Working together in our communities in support of actions and policies supporting children and youth, we can make a huge difference in meeting the needs of this population. JOIN THE EFFORT!

1. Add new voices to the growing chorus for MN kids!

ACTION!! – Invite others to join the movement! Ask your congregation, family and friends to join this growing network by adding their names and e-mail addresses.

WHY DOES THIS MAKE A DIFFERENCE? The network helps us speak with one voice and coordinate our public conversation, advocacy and prayerful action for MN kids. The result? – An audible chorus that can be heard from Fergus Falls to Fairmont that sets the stage for actions that value all children & youth.

2. Send a note to your MN State Senator and State Representative!

A simple note is a wonderful way to open a fruitful relationship with your Representative and Senator.

Find your Representative and Senator-elect

Sample message:
-Congratulations on your election to office.
-I appreciate your commitment to our community and to our state.
-As a constituent I look forward to working together for the good of all Minnesotans.

3. Talk about the Movement of Hope!

Background: Building interest, momentum and hope is key to achieving our goal of ending child and youth homelessness. Statewide attention can be created and maintained very easily - just talk about the movement, our hopes and plans, and the movement of hope will become the coolest thing in MN!

ACTION!! – Tell the hopeful story to friends, family and the media!

WHY DOES THIS MAKE A DIFFERENCE? Conversations at all levels (in the backyard, the fellowship hall, the pulpit and in the papers) are an indicator of what we value. When we talk about our hopes and actions for our youth and children we signal our priorities to our leaders! ...and we know that they are listening!

* LSS can help you prepare for events with candidates, communities and congregations – contact us!

The Movement of Hope is endorsed by the six ELCA Synods of Minnesota as part of the Ending Poverty Initiative: toward a Minnesota Without Poverty—Where all Children Thrive, A 2020 Vision.

For more information please contact us.

Printer Friendly    This page was created on January 4, 2007.