|
 Wind & Wings - Episcopal Diocese of Wyoming - Frequently Asked Questions
• What is WIND & WINGS?
• Who was involved in this planning process?
• Why is this important?
• How will this money be raised?
• Who will benefit?
• What exactly will happen in my church and community?
• If each church and community has to do all the work how does WIND & WINGS help?
• How does HR Camp fit into WIND & WINGS?
• The government has lots of money, so why not let them take care of all this?
• How does the WIND & WINGS initiative change who we are as a diocese?
It is an initiative that calls all of us individually and through the Episcopal Churches of Wyoming to work within our communities to enrich the lives of children, youth, and young adults. It is about finding ways to establish healthy relationships and change behaviors.
|
This dream has taken shape through the leadership of Bishop Caldwell and the efforts of many people. In preparation for this initiative, diocesan leaders conducted a survey, did research, held town meetings with young people, and had discussions with government officials and community leaders.
All of this culminated in a Youth Summit, which dared to dream on a large scale. WIND & WINGS is the result.
|
Many young people in Wyoming risk destructive behaviors. Others are simply bored or feel left out of community life. The Episcopal Church has a wonderful opportunity to help channel youthful energy in a myriad of positive directions.
"Service is at the heart of our commitment to Jesus Christ and our baptismal calling. We will not be content until all of the young people of Wyoming have opportunity to live life as God intends. In Wyoming we are a tenacious, trustworthy people and we will do our very best to see that this happens. " ~ Bruce Caldwell, Bishop
|
WIND & WINGS begins with a multi-year pledge campaign. This is a major undertaking, in which we can each participate. The Foundation for the Episcopal Church of Wyoming has agreed to match dollar for dollar up to $2.5 million to launch WIND & WINGS, and we anticipate their ongoing support as this initiative develops. The initial campaign will be for a total of $5 million, which will include $2.5 million from individuals and then the $2.5 million match from the foundation. More information will be available as a ministry implementation plan is developed.
|
We all will! Those to be served will be Episcopalian and those outside the church, youth who are doing well and those that are struggling, rich and poor, rural and urban. Young people will organize to breathe life into their dreams for their communities. Adults will encourage and support those dreams. Congregations will focus on mission in ways that nurture all the people of God. We must live as Christians; everyone will benefit.
|
One of the main themes of this endeavor is that it is shaped by the wants and needs of those involved at the local level. WIND & WINGS norms and parameters for ministry have been established, but each congregation and community will make its own decisions about programs, projects, and other forms of action. We recognize that each community has different assets and needs and therefore the WIND & WINGS response will look different.
|
We do not want WIND & WINGS to become an empire of programs, but rather a way to empower others and to provide resources that make things happen. By providing financial support and professionals who are skilled at community development and youth work we hope to simulate change and make possible things that may not happen otherwise. The details and consequences of these decisions are complex and the subject of professional attention and advice.
|
Over the last 60 years HR camp has demonstrated a successful approach to changing the lives of children and youth. An investment is under consideration that will be made in the facilities of the camp so it can continue to do its summer programming. Year around regional satellite programs will be added that follow the same model. This will provide greater access to HR camp and cultivate relationships and commitments that will lead to an expanded ministry.
|
We can focus on one child at a time and provide the human connection that makes the difference. We recognize that helping young people grow into whole and productive citizens is a complicated process involving multi-layered contributing influences. The Episcopal Church in Wyoming has the opportunity to act as broker, convener, partner, facilitator, enabler, and resource provider. Of course having government programs available to access when appropriate will be a key to our success. The Episcopal Church is strategically located throughout the state, has multi-generational congregations, and a passion that will serve the cause well. It is our role as Christians to address the problems of youth and families. We cannot leave the job to others and expect the kind of answer we would want.
|
WIND & WINGS will define the Episcopal Church in Wyoming for a decade and more. If we are to live into this vision it will require that the diocesan structure, each individual church member, and each congregation discern what God is calling them to do for young people. It will require a realignment of priorities and resources. This initiative will entail personal involvement, prayer, advocacy, resource generation, partnership building, and empowerment of people and communities. WIND & WINGS will make it possible to leave a legacy by establishing long-term funding, infrastructure, and expertise for youth and young adult programming.
|
|
