Hope Center 101
Note: In order to take this class, you must have already taken the Building Hope 101 class.
The Hope Center 101 is a 90-minute class and a pre-requisite for all volunteers at The Hope Center. Participants will gain an understanding of who refugees are, why they are fleeing their home countries, the resettlement process in Cleveland and how to handle various situations when working across cultures.
This class will be offered several times this year:
November 11th (6 pm) 15135 Triskett Road, Cleveland
Please complete the form below to register for this event.
City Impact Prayer and Worship
Join us in citywide prayer to provide a space for city ministry leaders and those interested in seeing the Body of Christ grow in transformational initiatives. Let’s connect with one another, worship Abba and be refreshed in the presence of God. We seek God's face and wisdom for direction, strength, and renewed hope for the work ahead.
Click here to share praise reports or submit prayer requests ahead of time with our citywide urban ministry prayer team.
City Impact Prayer takes place every 3rd Sunday at 5pm
Next City Impact Prayer : Sunday, November 16th
Location: The Wholeness Project (Formerly Bridge CLE) 3389 Fulton Rd, Cleveland, OH 44103
Email Leah.Ross@newcitycle.org for more info and to let us know you plan to attend.
Clark-Fulton & Stockyards (CFSY) 101
Note: In order to take this class, you must have already taken the Building Hope 101 class.
Clark-Fulton & Stockyards 101 is a 90-minute class…
Do you have an interest in coming closer to the work Building Hope in the City is doing in the Clark-Fulton Stockyards neighborhoods? We want to invite you to the family where the work is diverse yet holistic… Youth enrichment, affordable supportive housing, prayer walking, city leaders, urban agriculture, activating the dreams of long-time neighborhood residents, and on and on and on…
Your faith can translate into real relationships that bless this community that we love, and in return you will be blessed! We will dive into the beauty and brokenness of the neighborhoods and our unique approach to mutual transformation through presence and proximity. We will also explore specific ways you can partner in the work God is doing here. We can't wait to connect with you!
This class will be offered several times this year:
November 19th at (6pm) BHITC Headquarters, 3274 W 58th., Cleveland
Please complete the form below to register for this event.
Christmas Store
On Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13, 2025, Building Hope in the City (BHITC) will host its twelfth‑annual Christmas Store Experience at Bridge City Church. The Christmas Store is an invitation‑only shopping experience for families connected to our Afterschool/Community Development programs and Bridge City Church. Parents can purchase new, low‑priced gifts for their children and have them wrapped on site. This event is made possible through generous donations of gifts, baked goods, and financial support from our partner churches and volunteers.
Partner With Us
Volunteer and Serve - Rally up a group, invite students or bring along family and friends! You can serve in two ways: Help prepare from Dec 2–11 with sorting inventory, decorating, and setup, or join on event days (Dec 12–13) as greeters, family guides, wrappers, cashiers, and more. We need 20–25 volunteers per shift on each day of the event. In past years over 250 people have served to make Christmas Store possible. Your presence makes all the difference! Email anele@buildinghopeinthecity.org if you have questions about volunteering.
Host a Gift Drive & Donate Gifts - Invite your workplace, church, or community group to collect new toys, books, and teen-friendly items. Email yomarie@buildinghopeinthecity.org to schedule a gift drop-off or ship directly through our Amazon list ensuring every child has something special to open.
Give Financially - Your tax-deductible gift fills inventory gaps and keeps prices low so parents can shop with dignity. Donations especially help with larger gifts like bicycles, electronics and teen items.
Pray and Share - Pray for families, volunteers, and smooth logistics. Spread the word - post on social media, add a bulletin note, or invite your small group to serve together. Hope multiplies when we share it.
A Brief History & Impact
Launched in 2014, the Christmas Store has grown from a simple, one‑room pop‑up to a coordinated, multi‑room experience powered by partner churches and volunteers across the city. In 2024, the Store directly served 121 families and 467 children. Through additional partner distributions, the wider effort reached approximately 900 children across over 350 families, providing more than 7,200 toy‑related items with an estimated value of $143,580. These outcomes reflect the generosity of local congregations and the strength of BHITC’s year‑round relationships with families.
Joy to the World: An Evening of Scriptures and Carols
Join the beautiful diversity of the peoples and languages of The Hope Center coming together for an evening of Scriptures and Carols this Christmas Season. With Renovare Music providing the music, we will gather around the story of God’s coming in Jesus through Word and Song. Come ready to sing with the nations of the Joy to the World!
When: December 4th 6:30PM-8PM
Where: The Hope Center 15135 Triskett Rd.
Building Hope 101
Yes! We are so happy you want to volunteer at Building Hope in the City.
Your first step will be to register for Building Hope 101. It’s a 75-minute introduction to the organization where you will learn about our mission and ministries.
This class will be offered several times this year:
January 14th at (6 pm) BHITC Headquarters, 3274 W 58th., Cleveland
February 4th at (6 pm) BHITC Headquarters, 3274 W 58th., Cleveland
March 4th at (6 pm) BHITC Headquarters, 3274 W 58th., Cleveland
Please complete the form below to register for this event.
NOTE: By filling out your email address and phone number on the form below, you are giving BHITC permission to send you email and text communications.
Restoring The City Gala: The Colors of Hope
November 1st at the Hilton Hotel, Downtown Cleveland
Tickets Sold Out
Join us for an unforgettable evening at Building Hope in the City’s 2025 Restoring the City Gala, where we’ll gather to celebrate the beauty, diversity, and vibrancy of hope in our city. This year’s theme, The Colors of Hope, invites us to see the many ways God is restoring lives and communities.
Enjoy a night filled with dinner and cocktails, live music, and the inspiring company of those who share a heart for Cleveland. Together, we’ll cast a vision for the year ahead and celebrate the impact we've made. Your support brings color to our mission. Let’s step boldly into the future, united in our calling to see a city where hope flourishes in every neighborhood.
One World Kitchen 2025
Savor the Flavors of One World Kitchen!
Join One World Kitchen for an extraordinary dining experience that celebrates global cuisine, resilience, and opportunity. Save these upcoming dinner event dates prepared by graduates of the culinary workforce program.
October 24 - Eritrean, Congolese, and Sudanese cuisine
Learn more at our new website! oneworldkitchencle.com
Centering Discipleship MissionSmith Session 2
*Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Thursday evening session has been cancelled. The Friday Ministry Fair is still on, and we’re looking forward to gathering for worship, prayer, and connection as we celebrate what God is doing in our city.
Centering Discipleship MissionSmith Series: Becoming and Making Disciples Who Restore, Rebuild, and Transform Our City
Are you an activated believer with a heart for transformation in Greater Cleveland? A community leader or volunteer passionate about serving others? Or someone eager to dive deeper into how the church can collectively restore our city?
Join us for Centering Discipleship MissionSmith, a series to help ignite your faith, challenge your perspective, and equip you to impact your community. In this second session, Rev. Darryl Answer will build upon our foundation of discipleship to help identify and bridge the gaps between the parachurch and the church institution.
MissionSmith With Special Guest Rev. Darryl Answer
East Mount Zion Baptist Church, 9990 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106
What is a MissionSmith?
These free events are designed to:
Forge sharper ideas and insights for mission
Increase our awareness about the challenges faced by some communities throughout our city
Provide a safe and welcoming environment to ask questions, discuss, and learn about real issues that are often avoided
Offer practical opportunities to become more activated in drawing closer, helping, and learning form the pain of others
Connect with others interested in seeking God's heart for the city and being a part of transformation
You will walk away challenged personally and spiritually for deeper Kingdom advancement.
Neighborhood Prayer Walks
What do I see? What do I feel? Have things always been this way? What needs to be made right? What work has God already been doing? Where is the life of the church in this place? How has God invited me to participate in this work?
Prayer walking in a neighborhood is an effort to recover what it means for the body of Christ to become faithfully present to its local context through slowing our pace in a neighborhood context. These experiences are meant to immerse us in the story of God, the Church and with neighbors in a specific place.
These walks last an hour and include contemplative and intercessory prayer, a deeper understanding of the history and current stories that shape the neighborhood, and reflective prompts for you to reimagine your presence in the neighborhood in which God has called you.
Join us for one or all of our Neighborhood Prayer Walks happening this summer! Each walk will include unique opportunities to engage, grow and be equipped for faithful presence in our neighborhood or your own. RSVP below!
Want to see this get started in your neighborhood? Contact Nicole West nicole@buildinghopeinthecity.org for more information.
Prayer Walk Dates:
Friday, October 10th
Hope Grows Workdays
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. —Psalm 85:11-13
Come join BHITC Community Development for a workday with our Hope Grows initiative! Through the establishment of a micro farm, a resident-tended garden, and three orchards, this initiative has significantly contributed to providing fresh produce to residents who previously lacked access to nutritious food options in a close proximity. Beyond simply providing the produce, we’re committed to empowering the residents through food and nutrition education, and farm-to-table cooking demonstrations.
We invite you to join us in this initiative, get your hands dirty, and come have fun with us at the farm!
Location:
West 58th St Church of God, 3150 West 58th Street, Cleveland, OH 44102 (walk to the back)
Upcoming Dates:
Saturday, September 27th (9am-1pm)
Education Enrichment Volunteer Orientation
Volunteer with BHITC's Education Enrichment Program!
Interested in Tutoring Youth This Fall? Sign up now for our Tutor Orientation on Tuesday, September 16 at 6:00 PM held online. After you register, you’ll receive the link to join.
What will volunteers do?
Invest in students from the Clark-Fulton and Stockyards neighborhoods by offering homework help, educational enrichment activities, and general program support.
We serve 1st - 9th grade students, focusing on basic literacy and homework assistance. Tutoring sessions run on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 4-6 PM at West 58th St Church of God.
Your time and support can make a lasting difference - join us as a champion for the next generation!
Global Leadership Summit 2025
Global Leadership Summit at Renew Communities
Building Hope in the City will be hosting the Global Leadership Summit on August 7-8, 2025 at Renew Communities! At the Summit, you will step into a community of leaders who have dedicated themselves to building a better world. This is the only local GLS site in Cleveland!
Thanks to our sponsor, Thrivent, you can get additional savings using the code GLS25THRIVENT.
What Is Global Leadership Summit?
The Global Leadership Summit (GLS) is an annual event that brings together leaders from various sectors such as business, government, education, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based communities to learn and grow in their leadership skills.
The GLS aims to inspire and equip leaders with the tools, insights, and perspectives they need to lead effectively in their organizations and communities. The event typically features a lineup of high-profile speakers, including leaders, thinkers, and innovators from around the world, who share their expertise and personal leadership experiences.
The summit covers a wide range of leadership topics, including innovation, vision, communication, team-building, and personal development.
Education Enrichment Summer Volunteers
Education enrichment camp session 2 will take place August 4-8 at West 58th Street Church of God (3150 West 58th Street, Cleveland 44102).
Shop the Enrichment Summer Camp Amazon wishlist here!
Volunteer with BHITC's Summer Education Enrichment Program!
At Building Hope in the City (BHITC), our Education Enrichment program is rooted in the words of Jesus in Mark 10:14: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” We believe every child deserves the opportunity and resources to reach their full God-given potential.
This summer, we're creating a dynamic camp experience that blends academic support, spiritual formation, hands-on projects, outdoor sports, and lots of fun! Our goal is to cultivate an active learning environment that meets both the tangible and spiritual needs of our students. We're committed to holistic development—nurturing not just minds, but hearts and futures.
The need in our community is real. In the Clark-Fulton/Stockyards neighborhood, only 36.5% of residents have earned a high school diploma, and 34.4% have less than a high school education. These numbers aren't just statistics—they're a call to action.
Join us this summer and be part of lasting change. Your time, energy, and compassion can help transform lives—and that impact will echo far beyond the classroom.
What will volunteers do?
How can you serve? There’s a place for you here! Volunteers will:
Lead small groups of students in daily activities and build meaningful relationships
Assist as group support, helping guide transitions and encouraging engagement
Facilitate arts & crafts, games, and sports—bringing fun, energy, and creativity to the day
Lead inspirational sessions or share your career journey to empower and inspire the next generation
Help with setup and logistics—from preparing supplies to creating a welcoming space
Sponsor a meal or partner with us behind the scenes to ensure every child is cared for
Or simply be present—to listen, to cheer, to remind these kids they matter deeply
Faith + Immigration: Understanding the Southern Border
Registration to this event is now closed.
Despite shifting policies at the border, how does the faith community respond to people seeking safety and asylum with both compassion and conviction? Join us for an evening of story-telling and learn from a panel of faith leaders who can speak to the implications of the border in Cleveland and how they see God at work.
Feautured Guest + Speaker:
David Aldama: DACA Recipient, CEO Higher Ground HVAC
David Aldama crossed the southern border from Mexico with his dad when he was 4 years old. He crossed the border in Oceanside, California and settled in Fullerton, California, where he lived most of his life. He lived undocumented for 24 years until he was granted legal status through the DACA program in 2013. In 2021 he became a US Citizen and points to God who provided everything he needed along the way. When things got difficult, he prayed for miracles and saw God open doors time and time again. His journey is a testament that God loves and is near to those who seek him, even in the midst of many unknowns.
Other Panelists:
Matt Bevere: Ministry Consultant, NAE (National Association of Evangelicals)
Brian Hoffman: Executive Director of OCSILIO (The Ohio Center for Strategic Immigration and Litigation Outreach)
Nicole Schmidt: Senior Regional Organizer for Bread for the World
Pastor Luis Vizcarrondo, Jr.: Lead Pastor at Refine Church, Executive Director at Project Exartizo
Tee Up for Hope at Topgolf!
Join Us!
Get ready for an unforgettable evening as we Tee Up for Hope at Building Hope in the City’s annual Topgolf fundraising event!
On May 8th, gather your friends, family, and colleagues for a night packed with Topgolf fun, delicious food, refreshing drinks, exciting raffle prizes, and much more. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just seeking an enjoyable evening, everyone is welcome to join in on the fun regardless of age or skill level. It's the perfect event for families, coworkers, neighbors, and church groups alike. Swing into action for an evening of socializing and friendly competition on the driving range!
Your Support Fuels Our Mission! We are deeply grateful for the supporters who come alongside us on our mission to advance the good of the city. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to have a blast while meeting other like-hearted supporters and celebrating what God is doing through Building Hope in the City.
Registration for Tee Up for Hope closes on Friday, April 18th. Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you at Topgolf!
By purchasing tickets and sponsoring Tee Up for Hope at Topgolf, you’re directly contributing to the continuation of impactful initiatives for our city.
Tickets:
Individual Ticket - $150 - Includes Topgolf Game Play; food & two drink tickets.
Social Ticket - $100 - Includes food & two drink tickets. (Not included: Topgolf Game Play).
Sponsorships:
Sponsors are automatically entered into a special raffle for a three-month Platinum Membership to Topgolf which includes unlimited game play during designated hours, discounts on food, beverages, retail, and more! To enter, sponsor Building Hope’s Tee Up for Hope at the $1,500 level or above.
Title Sponsor - $10,000 - 3 Bays (18 people), Topgolf Game Play; food & unlimited drink tickets; logo on event promotions and signage throughout facility (bays and digital monitors at Topgolf); recognition at event
Food & Dining Sponsor - $5,000 - 2 Bays (12 people), Topgolf Game Play; food & unlimited drink tickets; logo on event promotions and signage in dining area (bays and digital monitors at Topgolf); recognition at event.
Beverage and Bar Sponsor - $5,000 - 2 Bays (12 people), Topgolf Game Play; food & unlimited drink tickets; logo on event promotions and signage in bar area (bays and digital monitors at Topgolf); recognition at event.
Raffle Sponsor - $2,500 - 1 Bay (6 people), Topgolf Game Play; logo at bays and with raffle items; food & three drink tickets/guest.
Hole-in-One Sponsor - $2,500 - 1 Bay (6 people), Topgolf Game Play; logo at bays and for hole-in-one contest; food & three drink tickets/guest.
Bay Sponsor - $1,500 - 1 Bay (6 people), Topgolf Game Play; food & three drink tickets/guest.
Centering Discipleship MissionSmith
Centering Discipleship MissionSmith Series: Becoming and Making Disciples Who Restore, Rebuild, and Transform Our City
Are you an activated believer with a heart for transformation in Greater Cleveland? A community leader or volunteer passionate about serving others? Or someone eager to dive deeper into how the church can collectively restore our city?
Join us for Centering Discipleship MissionSmith, a two-part series that will ignite your faith, challenge your perspective, and equip you to impact your community.
Special Guest E.K. Strawser, author of Centering Discipleship, will help us kick off Session 1 by journeying into a deeper understanding of God’s heart for discipleship. At Session 2, taking place in October, Rev. Darryl Answer will build upon our foundation of discipleship to help identify and bridge the gaps between the parachurch and the church institution.
Session 1 MissionSmith With Special Guest E.K. Strawser April 27th-28th
Sunday Morning Service at Cove City Church: Sunday, April 27th at 10am
Join Cove City Church for worship and a message from Strawser exploring the importance of aligning one's life with the teachings of Jesus, cultivating spiritual maturity, and fostering a disciple-making culture within our communities.
2439 St Clair Ave NE, Cleveland, OH 44114
City Impact Prayer and Worship at Bridge CLE: Sunday, April 27th at 5pm
Strawser will join us for a time of prayer and worship where we will bring our hearts before God and reflect on our walk as disciples. Together, we’ll go deeper in our faith and ignite our passion for discipleship.
3389 Fulton Rd, Cleveland, OH 44109
MissionSmith at Cove City Church: Monday, April 28th at 7pm
Strawser will lead us in understanding discipleship as a kingdom mandate. This powerful session will explore God’s heart for discipleship, examining what it means to follow Christ and make disciples. Through reflection, we’ll challenge ourselves to grow beyond the surface of our faith and commit fully to living out discipleship and disciple-making. Registration required. Please register below.
2439 St Clair Ave NE, Cleveland, OH 44114
What is a MissionSmith?
These free events are designed to:
Forge sharper ideas and insights for mission
Increase our awareness about the challenges faced by some communities throughout our city
Provide a safe and welcoming environment to ask questions, discuss, and learn about real issues that are often avoided
Offer practical opportunities to become more activated in drawing closer, helping, and learning form the pain of others
Connect with others interested in seeking God's heart for the city and being a part of transformation
You will walk away challenged personally and spiritually for deeper Kingdom advancement.
Citywide Ministry Book Read: Centering Discipleship: A Pathway for Multiplying Spectators into Mature Disciples by Eun Strawser
CITYWIDE MINISTRY BOOK READ: Centering Discipleship: A Pathway for Multiplying Spectators into Mature Disciples by Eun Strawser
Many believers feel called to community-facing ministry and mission, especially in vulnerable communities. But how often do we stop to examine whether discipleship—the core of Jesus’ ministry—is at the center of our efforts? Are we equipping others to follow Christ, or have we unintentionally neglected the call to “go and make disciples”?
Join us for a city-wide book club as we journey through Centering Discipleship: A Pathway for Multiplying Spectators into Mature Disciples by Eun Strawser. Together, we’ll reflect on what discipleship is and what it isn’t, how it transforms lives and communities, and how we can refocus our personal lives and ministries around Jesus’ mission.
This 4-week, stress-free book club is for believers across Greater Cleveland who are ready to:
Connect with like-minded individuals passionate about ministry and mission who want to increase the amount of conversation happening around discipleship.
Examine personal, church, or organizational practices to align more fully with discipleship principles.
Prepare the way for increased collaboration between parachurch and church leaders to create discipleship pathways for communities and populations being walked with and served.
Be refreshed and challenged in our understanding the definition and practice of discipleship.
Repent where needed and seek God’s guidance to be better disciples and disciple-makers.
Step 1
Purchase your copy of Centering Discipleship in the new year!
Step 2
Read the book in January and February.
Step 3
Sign up and save your spot for a group book discussion through the form below! Online or in-person groups will meet in March.
Details
Meeting Times: Mondays, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Dates: March 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31
Format: Virtual and in-person (small group discussions led by local leaders)
Why Join?
Through this study, you’ll make new connections across Greater Cleveland, strengthen existing relationships, and be stirred to action. Let’s learn together how to move from spectatorship to true, Jesus-centered discipleship—personally and within our churches and ministries.
Together, let’s re-center our lives on discipleship and the mission of Christ.
Understanding Poverty Workshop
Led by Building Hope in the City’s Brian Upton, this seminar is for anyone who feels called to our city. It puts into words what many veteran professionals and ministry leaders have experienced. Participants will learn specific strategies for improving their ministry outcomes when partnering with people experiencing poverty. In this workshop, participants will create a mental model of poverty, examine theories of change, and analyze hidden class rules, resources, family structure and language.
Next class February 8, 2024 (9am - 3pm)
Participants are encouraged to consider a freewill offering of $10.00 for workshop materials and lunch.
Registration is now full for this event.
Joy to the World: An Evening of Scriptures and Carols
Join the beautiful diversity of the peoples and languages of The Hope Center coming together for an evening of Scriptures and Carols this Christmas Season. With Renovare Music providing the music, we will gather around the story of God’s coming in Jesus through Word and Song. Come ready to sing with the nations of the Joy to the World!
When: December 5th 6:30PM-8PM
Where: The Hope Center 15135 Triskett Rd.
Christmas Store
Join Building Hope in the City as we bless urban families with the gift of hope and dignity this Christmas. Through your generosity, parents nurturing children within BHITC enrichment initiatives will gain the means to acquire brand-new presents at a fraction of their regular price during our special two-day store event. Each year, we partner with Scranton Road Bible Church, as well as countless donors and friends, for this heartwarming event. Opportunity awaits for you to give the gift of service, support and donations to the families we serve this holiday season!
You can make a difference in the lives of urban families by:
- Donating new toys such as sports equipment, board games, legos, dolls from various ethnicities and more! Shop our Amazon wishlist below, and items will be shipped automatically to our offices!
- Making a tax-deductible financial donation.
- Organizing a toy drive at your church or workplace. Call us for resources or assistance!
- Volunteering to make this event happen. This year we added new opportunities to serve individually or as a group. See our volunteer sign-up link below!
Opportunities to serve:
Christmas Store Set Up (12/03, 12/05, 12/08, 12/10, and 12/12): Set up the store, sort gifts and price toys .
Day-of Operational Opportunities (12/13, 12/14): Greeters, Registration, Shopper Helpers, Cashiers, Gift Wrappers, Runners, Floaters, Childcare, Kitchen and Food Assistance.
Day-of Ministry Opportunities (12/13, 12/14): Story tellers, Music performances, Art Activities, Christmas Plays, Donate Cookies, Donate Breakfast or Lunch for volunteers.
Email Yomarie at yomarie@buildinghopeinthecity.org with questions.
Donations can be dropped off from November 4 - December 8 at Scranton Road Bible Church (3095 Scranton Road) Monday - Friday between 9 am - 2 pm.
Board Tune-Up and Working Session
Are you ready to elevate your nonprofit’s impact? Join us for a Board Tune-up and Working Session, ideal for nonprofit leaders and teams from small to midsize organizations, particularly those participating in the LIFT program. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your existing strategies or develop new approaches, this event will give your board an opportunity to refine development strategies, ensuring your mission reaches new heights.
Collaborate closely with your own board to tackle challenges and uncover innovative solutions tailored to your organization’s unique needs, while also making meaningful connections with other nonprofit leaders. This will help generate ongoing support and inspiration for your mission.
Don’t miss this chance to enhance your organization’s development efforts. We look forward to seeing you there!
Date: Monday & Tuesday, November 11 & 12
Time: 6PM – 8:30PM each evening
Location: Community West Foundation, 821 Westpoint Pkwy Suite 900, Westlake
Secure your spot today by registering below!
Restoring The City Gala: A Night Under the Stars
Step into a shimmering fall evening ‘under the stars’ with Building Hope in the City at our 2024 Restoring the City Gala! This enchanting night will be filled with delightful cocktails and appetizers, captivating music and the warm company of friends - all while launching us into another year of ministry impact!
Join us as we unveil special announcements and initiatives that will shape our mission in the coming year. Each year, thanks to the incredible support of partners like you, Building Hope in the City makes a Kingdom impact across Cleveland. Your presence and support at the Gala is vital as we work towards a city where hope, compassion, and community thrive. Let’s celebrate the incredible work God has done and look forward to the future as we continue to embrace our mission to foster flourishing in our city.
Reminiscing on last year’s incredible event…
Autumn Hues
Join BHITC Community Development at the West 61st Street Micro Farm for our annual Autumn Hues Fall Event! This year, we're set to make another unforgettable afternoon for families, friends, and neighbors of all ages from the Clark-Fulton Stockyards (CFSY) community. Get ready for thrilling games for all ages, festive seasonal activities, and the chance to enjoy fresh, farm-picked produce straight from our Micro Farm!
We’re inviting community members, church partners, volunteers, friends, and family to help volunteer for this event. Whether you’re interested in preparing fresh produce, face painting, or simply participating in seasonal activities with the CFSY community, we’d love for you to join the fun.
*Must take Building Hope 101 and Clark-Fulton Stockyards 101 to volunteer
Mark your calendars and get ready to create wonderful memories with families and friends in the Clark-Fulton Stockyards neighborhood!
When: October 19th 2PM-5PM
Where: West 61st Street Micro Farm (located behind 3150 West 58 Street Church of God)
Neighborhood Prayer Walks
What do I see? What do I feel? Have things always been this way? What needs to be made right? What work has God already been doing? Where is the life of the church in this place? How has God invited me to participate in this work?
Prayer walking in a neighborhood is an effort to recover what it means for the body of Christ to become faithfully present to its local context through slowing our pace in a neighborhood context. These experiences are meant to immerse us in the story of God, the Church and with neighbors in a specific place.
These walks last an hour and include contemplative and intercessory prayer, a deeper understanding of the history and current stories that shape the neighborhood, and reflective prompts for you to reimagine your presence in the neighborhood in which God has called you.
Join us for one or all of our Neighborhood Prayer Walks happening this summer! Each walk will include unique opportunities to engage, grow and be equipped for faithful presence in our neighborhood or your own. RSVP below!
Want to see this get started in your neighborhood? Contact Nicole West nicole@buildinghopeinthecity.org for more information.
Prayer Walk Dates:
October 11th
Faith and Immigration: A hopeful vision for the Church and Newcomers in Cleveland
As we head into November’s election, how do Christians and the faith community intentionally engage on the topic of immigration with both compassion and conviction? How do Christians show curiosity and humility when it comes to understanding legal status and issues at the border? How might Jesus practically respond to newcomers in Cleveland and how might newcomers breathe life into the Church?
Join us for a morning with Rev. Eugene Cho as he lays a Biblical framework for welcoming and being welcomed by the refugee, immigrant and asylum seeking communities in Cleveland. Eugene’s talk will be followed by a panel discussion with local practitioners and faith leaders. Light refreshments will be served.
Born in South Korea, Rev. Cho is the founder of Quest Church in Seattle and is currently the President/CEO of Bread for the World.
Panelists:
Jewel Yokie, Senior Manager of The Hope Center
Nick Tribuzzo, Manager Director, The Hope Center Legal Service
Dr. Cory Wilson, President of Emmaus Seminary
Heather Ipema, Member of Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park, IL
Eugene Cho, Founder of Quest Church, President and CEO of Bread for the World
Emcee for Panel Discussion: Sharon Hughes, Director of The Hope Center
If you would like to attend this event, please register below!
Level UP Your Leadership
Are you grappling with disappointment, setbacks, or unexpected detours in your work or ministry? It’s time to revitalize your vision and reignite your passion. Join us for an empowering workshop and networking event designed specifically for faith leaders like you.
This transformative experience offers a unique opportunity to gain fresh perspectives and actionable insights from seasoned city leaders. Together, we’ll explore strategies for overcoming challenges and uncover pathways for growth in both your ministry and personal life.
Led by Cleveland leaders Julie Busch Jones, Pastor Leonard Tanks, and Linda Uveges, this session will invigorate your spirit and equip you with the tools you need to work through a difficult season. Don’t miss this chance to connect with peers, share experiences, and embark on a journey of renewal in your calling.
Fill out the form below to register!
Hope Grows Workdays
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. —Psalm 85:11-13
Come join BHITC Community Development for a workday with our Hope Grows initiative! Through the establishment of a micro farm, a resident-tended garden, and three orchards, this initiative has significantly contributed to providing fresh produce to residents who previously lacked access to nutritious food options in a close proximity. Beyond simply providing the produce, we’re committed to empowering the residents through food and nutrition education, and farm-to-table cooking demonstrations.
We invite you to join us in this initiative, get your hands dirty, and come have fun with us at the farm!
Beauty From Brokenness Art Show
Join us for a captivating evening as we unveil a special art show, Beauty from Brokenness, featuring the remarkable work of our Artist in Residence, Kim Wheatley!
See how Kim, deeply invested in her neighbors, uses her craft to transform pain into beauty. You’ll learn about the profound role of art in healing, gain insight into the artist’s creative process, and hear the stories behind her work.
“To actually make a change in people’s lives, you have to be in their lives and walking with them through their pain.” - Kim Wheatley
This event is more than just an art show—it's a celebration of resilience. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about how creativity can impact lives, there's something here for you. Come and see how art can be a bridge to healing and hope! Please register below if you plan to attend.
When: Friday, September 20th 6PM
Where: 4131 Bush Ave, Cleveland
Neighborhood Movie at The West 61st Street Micro Farm
Neighborhood Movie at The West 61st Street Micro Farm
When? August 30, 2024 at 7pm
Where? West 61st Street Micro Farm (behind the 3150 West 58th Street Church of God)
Join Building Hope in the City for a summer evening celebrating our incredible Clark-Fulton Stockyards community! On Friday, August 30th, join us for a family-friendly, outdoor movie night hosted by the BHITC Community Development team.
We welcome community members, church partners, volunteers, friends, and family to help us create a memorable event. Whether you’re interested in helping to prepare the space, organizing snacks and drinks, or simply enjoying time with the CFSY community, we’d love for you to be a part of this family-friendly gathering.
To get involved and help make this event a success, please reach out to Luis Luna at luis@buildinghopeinthecity.org.
*Must take Building Hope 101 and Clark-Fulton Stockyards 101 to volunteer
Clark-Fulton & Stockyards Summer Camp Session #2
Calling all Volunteers!
Join us as a volunteer at Glow Summer Camp!
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your father in heaven. - Matthew 5:16
Join us for a heartwarming opportunity to make a difference this summer! Building Hope in the City is eagerly seeking volunteers to enrich the lives of Clark-Fulton and Stockyards students through mentorship, engaging sessions, vibrant activities, and spirited games at the second session of our annual neighborhood Summer Camp!
If you’re unable to volunteer but still want to contribute, you can support us by providing a hot meal for the event.
For more information, reach out to yomarie@buildinghopeinthecity.org.
Together, let's build a summer filled with joy, growth, and learning experiences!
Christmas in July
Friends, families, neighbors, church partners, and volunteers, the BHITC Community Development Team is throwing the annual Christmas in July bash at the West 61st Street Micro Farm in the Stockyards neighborhood! We welcome you to come serve and participate alongside our team! This festive event is more than just a summer gathering; it's a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together for a day filled with joy, laughter, and fellowship!
The Community Development Team has an exciting lineup of activities planned, including fun games for all ages, exciting prizes to be won, a delicious cookout, a farm-fresh produce giveaway, and time to connect and celebrate with neighbors and friends! Whether you've volunteered with us before or this is your first time, we'd love to have you on board! It's a fantastic way to get involved, meet new people, and join in on what God is doing in the 'BHITC footprint' right here in Stockyards.
If you're interested in partnering with us for this year's Christmas in July event, please click here to register. We look forward to seeing you!
Stories From Our Streets
Did you know that Cleveland is one of the most racially segregated metropolitan areas in the country, and ranks 5th in the nation for income inequality between black and white residents?
On July 11, you can experience a bit of what these realities have meant for some residents in the Buckeye-Woodhill neighborhood on Cleveland’s east side. This neighborhood has been shaped by over 50 years of racist redlining and housing discrimination, where to this day more than half of residents live below the poverty line.
Yet, the deep sense of community and the resilience of the Buckeye-Woodhill residents are a testament to their strength and their hope for a better future. We want to celebrate the deep ties and the real stories that have been forged in this community.
Therefore, Building Hope in the City, New City Cleveland, and Renovare Music invite you to an immersive evening of instrumental music, poetry, narratives, and original Documentary Songs written collaboratively with members of the Buckeye-Woodhill neighborhood. This hour-long performance will be followed by refreshments and a panel discussion to help us reflect, discuss, and respond to the testimonies we have heard. Come be inspired by the stories of these residents, and learn how you can contribute to flourishing for all our neighbors.
What is a MissionSmith?
These free events are designed to:
Forge sharper ideas and insights for mission
Increase our awareness about the challenges faced by some communities throughout our city
Provide a safe and welcoming environment to ask questions, discuss, and learn about real issues that are often avoided
Offer practical opportunities to become more activated in drawing closer, helping, and learning form the pain of others
Connect with others interested in seeking God's heart for the city and being a part of transformation
You will walk away challenged personally and spiritually for deeper Kingdom advancement.
Volunteer Voyage Around the BHITC World!
BHITC Volunteers, join us for an adventure around the world of Building Hope in the City! Your dedication has made all the difference in our mission to serve communities throughout Cleveland. Whether you’ve volunteered once or been part of our family for years, this event is our way of saying thank you and celebrating you!
Explore the diverse facets of the Building Hope world:
Indulge in a taste of One World Kitchen's culinary delights
Discover the wonders of Urban Agriculture with Luis Luna
Unleash your artistic side with our local leader Yolanda Latham
Dive into the scent science of Peripeti Candles with Kate Walsh Dodok
Experience fashion fun and creativity with Common Threads Thrift
Plus, enjoy a special cultural dance performance, hands-on activities, chances to win prizes, and much more! Get your BH passport stamped and join us for an afternoon of festivities, games, and gratitude. So bring your family and let's embark on a journey of unforgettable memories together!
We can't wait to celebrate YOU!
Event Itinerary:
1:30-1:50 - Kick off our BHITC adventure with some mingling, mocktails, and passport stamping!
1:50-2:15 - Get ready to be entertained with our lively program featuring Nepali dance performances, words from Executive Director Brain Upton and Ministry Engagement Manager David Van Hal, important instructions, and of course, special awards!
2:15-3:30 - Try delicious appetizers from the global cuisine, collect more passport stamps, enjoy an intriguing scent demo by Peripeti, and don't forget to partake in the program area games for a chance to win prizes!
Clark-Fulton & Stockyards Summer Camp Orientation
Calling all Volunteers!
Join us at the West 58th Street Church of God on Monday, 6/10 at 6pm OR Tuesday, 6/11 at 5pm!
Join us for a heartwarming opportunity to make a difference this summer! Building Hope in the City is eagerly seeking volunteers to enrich the lives of Clark-Fulton and Stockyards students through mentorship, engaging sessions, delicious meals, vibrant activities, and spirited games at our annual neighborhood Summer Camp!
We invite you to our Volunteer Orientation, where Yomarie Gonzalez, our dedicated Education Enrichment Coordinator, will guide you through the possibilities of volunteering with us! Learn how you can contribute to creating cherished memories and nurturing the growth of the students in Clark-Fulton and Stockyards this summer. Together, let's build a summer filled with joy, growth, and learning experiences! RSVP to yomarie@buildinghopeinthecity.org by 6/9 and specify which session you are able to attend.
Tee Up for Hope at Topgolf!
Join Us!
Get ready for an unforgettable evening as we “Tee Up for Hope” at Building Hope in the City’s inaugural Topgolf fundraising event!
On May 30th, gather your friends, family, and colleagues for a night packed with Topgolf fun, delicious food, refreshing drinks, exciting raffle prizes, and much more. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just seeking an enjoyable evening, everyone is welcome to join in on the fun regardless of age or skill level. It's the perfect event for families, coworkers, neighbors, and church groups alike. Swing into action for an evening of socializing and friendly competition on the driving range!
Your Support Fuels Our Mission! We are deeply grateful for the supporters who come alongside us on our mission to advance the good of the city. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to have a blast while meeting other like-hearted supporters and celebrating what God is doing through Building Hope in the City.
Registration for Tee Up for Hope closes on Friday, May 17th. Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you at Topgolf!
By purchasing tickets and sponsoring Tee Up for Hope at Topgolf, you’re directly contributing to the continuation of impactful initiatives for our city.
Tickets:
$125 Individual Ticket - Participate in the Topgolf Top Contender Tournament and free play, enjoy the BBQ buffet, and a complimentary drink. Golfers and non-golfers alike can have fun playing Topgolf while supporting the mission of Building Hope in the City.
$75 Social Ticket - No golf participation, food and two drink tickets included.
Sponsorships:
Title Sponsor - $10,000 - 3 Bays (18 people), Topgolf Top Contender Tournament (if desired); unlimited drinks; logo on event promotions and signage (bays and digital monitors at Topgolf); recognition at event.
Signature Sponsor - $5,000 - 2 Bays (12 people), Topgolf Top Contender Tournament (if desired); drink tickets; logo on event promotions and signage (bays and digital monitors at Topgolf); recognition at event.
Food & Drink Sponsor - $2,500 - 1 Bays (6 people) Topgolf Top Contender Tournament (if desired); logo at bays and on all food stations and bars; drink tickets.
Auction Sponsor - $2,500 - 1 Bay (6 people), Topgolf Top Contender Tournament (if desired); logo at bays and on all auction/raffle tables; drink tickets.
Bay Sponsor - $1,000 - 1 Bay (6 people), Topgolf Top Contender Tournament (if desired); logo at bay; drink tickets.
Hole-In-One Sponsor - $500 - Tickets for 2 people; logo on event signage.
Become A Volunteer
We'd love to meet you and serve with you! Head over to our volunteer page to sign up for a 15 minute video call to learn how you might serve before signing up for a class.