Appalachian Ministry Network
Project Information
Building and connecting ministries, providing education and training relevant to Appalachia, and granting funds to United Methodist churches, annual conferences and organizations directly addressing the needs of those in poverty.
Describe the need affecting community
How will this Advance project help to address the need?
UMAMN, formally the Appalachian Development Committee, was established at the 1972 General Conference as the United Methodist effort to address poverty in Appalachia and it was directly related to the National Program Division of Global Ministries. The goal was to provide resources and administrative assistance to agencies, conferences and boards that were strategizing and implementing programs in Appalachia. The major areas of work are advocacy on public policy, networking to bring leaders together for learning and sharing, interpretation of area needs and concerns to those requesting information and resourcing through church materials, models of ministry and hunger and poverty grant programs.
Describe the primary goal of the project
The overall goal of the project is to alleviate the injustices impacting the lives of Appalachian families, such as hunger, poverty, environmental degradation. Long-term, UMAMN hopes to develop the ministries necessary to address the root causes of Appalachian issues, as well as advocate for the region as a whole to support beneficial policies.
Describe the change you would like to see in the community as a result of this Advance project
UMAMN wants to see the elimination of the economic, social, and environmental injustices in Appalachia. Specifically, we want to see a reduction in the poverty rate, reduction in the unemployment rate, improved health and wellbeing, and stronger, healthier, happier families. And ultimately, UMAMN wants to develop disciples for Jesus Christ.
Contact Information
Pastor Joy Wigal
Treasurer
joywigal@yahoo.com