Faith communities have historically been at the center of social movements. Some continue to play a critical role in addressing the social and spiritual needs of our neighborhoods. However, many congregations are dwindling, and their social power is diminishing. With the vanishing capacity to serve the poor and advance social justice, young leaders lack the religious or spiritual support structures that historically fueled social change.
SVCF’s Faith and Neighborhoods: Community Action Grants Program recognizes that faith communities can provide a moral frame for seeking community-led solutions in neighborhoods where many have suffered the impact of systemic racial injustices. In this focus area, we aim to support faith-based organizations working with Black and Indigenous communities and communities of color that strengthen interfaith and race relations, invest in community leadership, and increase community participation in civic life to address housing and immigration issues.