Walking my block, I saw what I’ve always known but don’t always stop to take in. What hit me right away was this: this block isn’t broken; it’s just carrying a lot. And there’s still life here.

Another batch of Faith-Based Animators has finished our FAN cohort strong! Once again, our Animators were asked to take intentional (and sometimes awkward) steps to build relationships on their blocks in a time when being so intentional feels more counter-cultural than ever. They overcame their anxieties and a variety of challenges, and they each honed their vision to see a whole bunch of neighborhood gifts and connections that were right under the surface! They paid attention to the possibilities on their blocks, and then they created space to bring those possibilities to life.

The third Faith-Based Animator Network cohort gathered in Wichita this September for a memorable mid-program meeting. From connecting at the newly opened Riverside Bohemian coffee shop—a perfect example of asset-based community development in action—to sharing a powerful prayer for nonviolence, the gathering reinforced why neighboring matters. Animators reflected on their Holy Listening Conversations and left with renewed commitment to building unity and care in their communities.