Tarentum ministry aims to help people go from 'surviving to thriving'

People with connections outside of their family tend to be healthier and more resilient.

That’s the belief of a new initiative, Communities of Transformation, hosted nationally by the United Methodist Church.

“People who have trust points — people you can rely on — are better able to reach their goals,” said the Rev. Sally Jo Snyder of Freeport.

Snyder is the site director for the Alle-Kiski Valley Community of Transformation, piloted in Tarentum as the second series in Pennsylvania, following a program in Bradford.

The free 12-week series will be hosted at Central Presbyterian Church along Allegheny Street. It begins March 6 and is open to residents 18 and older from across the region.

Prior to the kickoff, there will be a Taste and See preview event Feb. 20.

“Whether it’s a need for a job with better pay, financial freedom or healthier relationships, this program is meant to give people hope,” Snyder said.

Communities of Transformation was founded in 2010 with the goal of “creating journey mates to help move people from surviving to thriving.”

Central Presbyterian was chosen because of its work in the community with Faith Community Partners, the outreach arm of the church.

“This is a relational ministry that invites folks who are experiencing some kind of poverty to walk beside volunteers — clergy, lay people, professionals and others — for an extended period of time to equip them with the skills they need to improve their lives,” church administrator David Rankin said.

Poverty, in these scenarios, doesn’t have to be only financial, Rankin said.

“It can also result from people living without enough education, emotional support or other aspects of life that keep them from living abundantly,” he said.

Already, 10 churches and agencies have joined the effort. They include the Allegheny Intermediate Unit; Christ Our Hope Anglican Church in Harrison; Trinity United Methodist Church in Brackenridge; New Kensington Presbyterian; First Baptist Church in Tarentum; and Bethel, Freeport, Leechburg and Vandergrift United Methodist churches.

Snyder, a veteran minister, said she has always answered her calling through a social justice lens. She has served in ministry settings with the Children’s Defense Fund, Good Schools PA and in the areas of health equity for impoverished and disabled people.

She said the foundation of the program will hinge on establishing connections.

Weekly meetings will begin with a shared meal, not only to provide sustenance but to promote conversation.

Breaking bread brings people together and builds trust, she said.

Anyone interested in volunteering, or sponsoring a meal, is welcome to attend.

Childcare is provided.

“Poverty has many faces,” Rankin said. “This is about helping equip people who are experiencing any kind of struggles with life issues.”