DECLARING THE GOSPEL OF GOD
Location: Lakewood Church of the Nazarene: 1755 Dover Street, Lakewood, CO 80215
Schedule: April 4, 6-10 p.m.; April 5, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. // April 11, 6-10 p.m.; April 12, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Instructor: Rev Rick Edwards
Course Description:
This introduction to evangelism explores the biblical and theological foundations of God’s mission to bring fullness and restoration to all of creation, especially people created in God’s image. Students will also discover new ways to think and talk about the process of conversion, and use this framework to evaluate a variety of evangelistic methods.
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Happy New Year! As we reflect on the past 14 years of Movement 5280, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for your incredible support and faithfulness. Your generosity has enabled us to impact countless lives, and this past year has been no exception.
Our Unique Focus
Movement 5280’s mission is to be a “family of support” for at-risk and unhoused youth and young adults. As a recovery community organization, we take a holistic approach, providing individualized, long-term support for people of all ages. Our commitment is to foster a nurturing and inclusive community that recognizes the inherent worth and potential of every individual.
We wholeheartedly believe that God blessed us with this church building for a purpose. Its size and layout have allowed us to expand our reach and serve more people than ever before. Beyond providing overnight shelter during severe weather, this space has enabled us to assist individuals and families in profound ways, creating a significant impact on lives and in our community. However, this expanded reach also brings increased operational costs, including staffing, utilities, and supplies.
Meeting Critical Needs: Severe Weather Shelter
When the Severe Weather Network closed in September 2024 due to funding issues, we felt called to step in and meet this urgent need. Without this shelter, people’s lives would be at risk during extreme weather events. By offering overnight severe weather shelter, we are fulfilling a critical role in our community while also honoring the grant we received from Arapahoe County. Most importantly, we are saving lives by providing shelter and support during extreme weather conditions.
Financial Challenges and Immediate Needs
While we remain deeply committed to this mission, we are facing significant financial challenges. Some of these stem from our expanded reach, while others result from broader trends, including a decline in local church support as many congregations face their own financial difficulties.
We urgently need $15,000 this month and an additional $10,000 per month through April to sustain our operations and provide these vital services.
Steps We’ve Taken to Manage Resources
We are committed to being good stewards of our resources and have implemented several cost-saving measures, including:
- Selling two shuttles to reduce expenses.
- Reducing staffing costs.
- Beginning Medicaid billing in October 2024, currently generating $6,000 per month, with expectations to double by April.
- Consolidating programs, such as moving Friday services to once a month and replacing them with billable, purposeful classes.
- Staff members personally contribute and volunteer additional hours.
Despite these efforts, securing grants has become increasingly difficult, and we are at a critical juncture where we cannot continue without additional support.
How You Can Help
We are asking for your help during this crucial time. Your support—whether through donations, spreading the word, or prayers—will directly impact our ability to serve those in need.
To contribute, please visit our website at movement5280.org
Your generosity has always been a beacon of hope for those we serve, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership in this work. Together, we can ensure that Movement 5280 continues to be a place of safety, healing, and transformation for all.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Tina and the Movement 5280 Team