Brighton First and Intentional Community Outreach

In 2008, Brighton First made the strategic decision to offer affordable dental
 care to the people of Livingston County. (The VINA Community Dental Clinc
pictured above.) Our congregation has resources, skills and the passion to
minister in life-changing ways in the Brighton area.

In 2008, Brighton First made a critical strategic decision. They "gave away" building space to house the VINA Community Dental Clinic. The first floor of the church annex was remodeled by volunteers and the dental clinic opened in the fall. Volunteers, both dental professionals and those who offer administrative support have changed the lives of thousands with this ministry. Residents of Livingston County who cannot afford basic dental care now have a dental home.

Brighton First is capable of life-changing outreach in the community of Brighton. We have proven that we are capable of strategic decisions that impact lives. What if Brighton First was to take the bold step of reaching out to be in intentional relationship with members of our community? What if we were to reach out, not to get people to join our church, but because we want to give the gift of Christ's love? Our vision is to offer outreach that not only shows the love of Christ to those we serve, but strengthens the faith of those who are serving. 

However, there are so many needs that can be addressed, that deciding what to do is a challenge. If our church tried to reach out to assist every community need, the task would be overwhelming. Our resources would be stretched and our impact reduced.

Recently a group of Brighton First members met to take a "30,000 foot" overview of populations that may have needs in our community. Our initial resource was the findings of a demographic study generated by MissionInsite, a tool to help churches to connect with their communities through outreach, marketing and worship. It was not the group's intention to create or dismantle programs, seek solutions or prescribe process. They came together to ask, "Who can we serve and be in relationship and what are the needs?"

Based on the MissionInsite data, the group noted that the growing populations are young adults who are beginning families and older adults who are in the later years of retirement. The populations of school age children and adults between the ages of 50 and 65 will continue to decline over the next five years. The Brighton area is more economically prosperous than the state and national average. In fact, the majority of the population within 15 miles of Brighton is financially well off, when compared to the national average.

The group agreed that different populations in the Brighton area offer both challenges and opportunities for the church to be in ministry. The list of potential areas for outreach included: youth, young families, people working in the service industry, the deaf community, the LGBT community, those who live with mental illness and their families, the married and divorced, elders in the community, commuters who leave the area for work and commuters who work in Brighton but cannot afford to live here.

After a 1 1/2 hour discussion the group asked the questions, "What's next?" They determined that they needed input from several sources including: representatives from institutions that work with needy populations in Livingston County and people who are in those populations. It would be arrogant of us to presume the needs of a group of people without asking.

The group also noted it is essential that any outreach efforts fit with the passions, skills and resources of our church. So, as discussions continue we will survey the heart of the congregation in order to get a sense of where God is calling us to serve.

In the coming months, Brighton First will be developing a strategic plan for ministry to the community and the world. Included in that plan will be community outreach. This is essential because Christ calls us to be a people who reach out beyond our doors.

If this article has peaked your curiosity, God may be nudging you to be part of the larger discussion or part of a new community outreach program. If so, please contact me.