Reaching Out
Here are some of the formal outreach opportunities that our church offers in our own community. We would be quick to say that each regular attender at Council Tree Covenant is a part of the “Outreach Team”. That is because as we discover that we are a people deeply loved by God, we can not help but reach out to this world with the same love, whether we are on a formal team or simply in relationship with others.
Faith Family Hospitality
Faith Family Hospitality (FFH) is a volunteer effort that coordinates the service or partnering Fort Collins faith communities to provide overnight housing & meals (breakfast, dinner) each week on a rotating basis for a maximum of 4 families experiencing homelessness. Our congregation joined this effort in early 2012 to host families approximately every 9 weeks. We aim to provide these families a place of warmth, comfort and welcome as classrooms are converted into bedrooms and evening meals are prepared for our guests. There is a need for many volunteers throughout the week. If you would like to serve in this ministry of compassion, please contact the church office or sign up when the coming dates are announced.
Kid’s Hope USA Ministry to Werner Elementary
What is KIDS HOPE USA?
KHUSA is a partnership between one school and one church in which adults from the church mentor at-risk students from the elementary school. A volunteer mentor works with only one child for one hour each week throughout the school year. When kids feel loved and valued, they are better able to learn, grow, and succeed. In addition to the mentor activities, a prayer team supports ECC’s KHUSA ministry; each mentor and student pair will have an ECC volunteer praying for them.
How can I help?
You can become a mentor, a substitute mentor, or a prayer partner. We can also use help with baking, special events, and donations of children’s books and games.
Which school is Council Tree partners with?
Werner Elementary located at 5400 Mail Creek Lane, Fort Collins.
What type of child would I mentor?
You would be matched with a child you are comfortable with and who is available during the time YOU are available.
I work during the day; I can’t be a part of the KIDS HOPE team.
Wrong. Many employers are anxious and proud to have their employees involved in such a worthwhile cause. Some employers give their employees flexibility with their schedules for the day they mentor. Others give an extended lunch hour and others even pay their employees while they volunteer. We also need prayer partners to back each mentor and student partnership.
I haven’t been to school in years. How will I know what to do?
You will complete a training that covers everything. Your child’s teacher will supply all the material and directions you need for your hour.
I’m a student; can I be a mentor?
Yes! You must be at least 16 years old, have time available, have reliable transportation, and be dependable. We have had lots of students who are great mentors!
YOU could be the missing link in a child’s life. If you are interested in becoming a Kids Hope mentor, or volunteering in some other way, please contact Kathy Brush at kathryn_brush@comcast.net.
Meals Ministry
We offer a tangible way to support folks within our body through providing meals in times of need. We have a team who has volunteered to provide the meals. The needs range from welcoming a new baby to health issues (surgery, illness, treatments, etc.). Whatever the need, we want to offer physical nourishment to your body through the meals, and encouragement that your church family cares for you. If you know of someone connected to our body that has a need, or perhaps you have a need, please contact Kim Southard at kssouthard2911@gmail.com. Also, if you would like information about joining the group that provides meals, please contact Kim. You can find more information here.
Meals for the homeless
We are cooking and serving meals at the Catholic Charities homeless shelter on the third Sunday of every month. There are opportunities to help. We are also working on adding a second meal every month.