Stories of Impact: Leaders Catalyzing City Renewal Across the Globe
The December 2019 Cities Project Global Summit brought together a network of leaders united by a vision to see their cities transformed through faith-driven action. From community outreach projects to innovative donation models, each story showcased how living integrated lives can create ripple effects of renewal. Here are some highlights from the summit that inspire hope and action.
1. Shereen: Growing Community Despite Challenges
Location: American University
Shereen’s journey began with a small but committed cohort determined to embody faith and leadership in their work. Though attendance at the first retreat was lower than expected, additional dedicated members joined after seeing the impact of the initial sessions. The group’s next meeting in January promises continued growth as they explore ways to engage students and professionals at the university.
Shereen’s experience highlights the power of perseverance in leadership. By focusing on authenticity and relationships, she is planting seeds of change in an academic environment that often lacks spiritual dialogue.
2. Shawn: Reinventing Charity with Giving Machines
Location: Denver, Colorado
Shawn, a key leader connected to Denver’s Mayor’s Office, implemented a groundbreaking initiative called “Giving Machines,” inspired by a successful program in Salt Lake City. These machines function like vending machines, but instead of snacks, users purchase charitable items such as food, hygiene kits, or school supplies for local nonprofits. Donors receive instant confirmation of their impact, fostering a sense of connection to the causes they support.
The program’s reach is global, with machines also located in Manila, Las Vegas, London, and more. The initiative has generated significant donations, demonstrating how simple, tech-savvy solutions can make giving more accessible and meaningful. Shawn’s leadership exemplifies how faith and innovation can merge to meet real needs.
3. Alan: Living Among the Community
Location: Orlando, Florida
Alan shared how one member of his group took the concept of incarnational living to heart, moving into a low-income neighborhood to become a beacon of Christ’s love. This leader’s commitment to being present in the community underscores the Cities Project’s emphasis on relational ministry.
By embodying proximity and presence, Alan’s group illustrates that true transformation often begins when leaders choose to walk alongside those they serve.
4. Hugh: Empowering City Renewal with Small Cohorts
Location: Denver, Colorado
Hugh’s approach to leadership development involved curating small, intentional groups of 6-8 participants meeting at various offices across the city. Each gathering is held at the workplace of a “tsaddiq”—a Hebrew term for righteous leaders who pursue justice and contribute to the common good.
To foster deeper conversations, Hugh created coaching cards with thought-provoking questions, encouraging participants to reflect on their vocational calling and identify their City Renewal Project ideas. This structure has not only strengthened connections among leaders but has also inspired real-world initiatives aimed at addressing systemic challenges in Denver.
5. Micheline: A Commitment to Perseverance
Location: Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Despite initial challenges, Micheline reported encouraging progress in her cohort, with participants showing increased dedication over time. Her team is preparing to launch a new group, building momentum for city renewal in Abidjan.
Micheline’s work emphasizes the importance of resilience and prayer in leadership. Her meetings with professionals—including lawyers navigating workplace challenges—reflect the Cities Project’s belief that every vocation is a platform for transformation.
6. Bob: Building a Digital Platform for Global Impact
Location: Online
Bob’s report focused on technological advancements, including the launch of the Galilee website and app, designed to provide resources for leaders worldwide. He is also collaborating on the development of a concise presentation—an “elevator pitch”—to communicate the Cities Project’s vision with clarity and consistency.
By harnessing technology, Bob’s work ensures that leaders across continents can access tools that equip them to live out their faith and contribute to city-wide renewal.
A Vision of Flourishing Cities
The December 2019 Cities Project Global Summit was a testament to the power of collaboration, faith, and resilience. Whether through Giving Machines in Denver, community engagement in Abidjan, or digital innovations, these leaders remind us that small, intentional steps can lead to widespread transformation.
As Cities Project continues to expand, the stories from this summit serve as both an encouragement and a challenge: to engage our cities with hope, wisdom, and a commitment to seek the flourishing of all people.