By Heather Lusk
With escalating violence in Indianapolis a recent hot topic in the news, a group from Zionsville United Methodist Church decided they wanted to find a way to make a difference.
After months of determining the best way to help, Sue Forry and fellow ZUMC parishioners Rich Richey and Sherman Whitfield organized a community meeting Feb. 12 to highlight the work of the Ten Point Coalition, a faith-based organization working to reduce violence and address critical issues in the greater Indianapolis area.
“We have a passion to see them get some help and awareness and support,” Forry said.
Leaders from the coalition and local community spoke to a group of about 45 congregation members to explain why the organization’s work is important to the area.
“Everything is moving north,” said Boone County Sheriff Mike Nielsen. “We’re seeing burglaries increase more than 10 years ago.”
Violent crime rates haven’t yet increased, but Nielsen emphasized the need for Zionsville residents to understand that the high crime rate in Indianapolis does have an impact on neighboring cities.
Pastor Charles Harrison, president of Ten Point Coalition, believes the organization’s role is to reach the hearts of the youth who are instigators of the violence. He is believer in second chances, as many former convicts now work for the Ten Point Coalition.
“Violence is a learned behavior that can be unlearned,” he said.
The speakers shared ways that Zionsville residents can help combat crime in the area.
“Even from Zionsville you can contribute. Your help will be greatly appreciated and greatly used,” said Pastor Horatio Luster, director of field operations for the Ten Point Coalition.
So far ZUMC has raised $500 to purchase reflective vests for volunteer groups to wear as they patrol the streets of Indianapolis, reaching out to gangs and other groups. Other volunteers have offered to help with office work, the food ministry and mentoring children.
Forry plans to hold additional meetings to raise awareness of this issue inside and out of the church.
“This movement will continue,” she said. “We feel this is just the beginning of our partnership and our ministry.”
MORE INFO
Learn more about how to join ZUMC’s effort to assist the Ten Point Coalition by emailing Sue Forry at [email protected].
