Deepening the strategy for Spiritual Changemaking

This article originally appeared on Neighborhood Economics

“In Dave Kresta’s book, Jesus on Main Street, he outlines a path for Christian congregations to engage in community economic development."

“Rather than starting with a systemic economic analysis of their community and discovering where the injustices lie, Kresta says an easy first way for white allies to engage is through a local startup accelerator that works with marginalized communities. ‘Getting engaged with micro business development, business incubation in terms like coaching, those things are good, good first steps,’ Kresta said. ‘That appeals to churches because it’s got the personal touch, and it creates relationships.’

Through sitting down one-on-one with entrepreneurs, church members can be helpful and can use their networks to provide connections to people and resources. This allows church members to discover the individual’s particular business challenges.”

Ashoka insight

Looking at systemic change and community economic development as objectives behind our strategies is key to creating large-scale transformation. But, as Dave Kresta points out, starting with empathy is just as important. Spiritual Changemakers from around the world offer innovative contributions to society that have the potential to guarantee human rights, combat climate change, and create systems of equity. First, it is important to get to know the people who are affected by those problems and be open to learning from their perspectives.

Ashoka offers a variety of resources to expand your skills and your impact! Make sure to check out our Resources section.

What is the ultimate goal of your initiative? How does that view everyone (especially the benefiaries) as a changemaker?

How are you able to learn and adapt quickly to continuously improve your products or offerings?

Who else from your spiritual community could enrich your strategic focus?