Together We Serve: Neighbors 4 Neighbors and Desert ARC at St. Margaret’s
When I first learned about Neighbors 4 Neighbors in Palm Desert, I recognized it is an example of one of my most deeply held Episcopal pillars–living out my faith through service to others. The St. Margaret’s and Neighbors 4 Neighbors partnership is an example of how a church and a local organization can be a bridge between those in need and those who are called to help. Neighbors 4 Neighbors brings together volunteers, resources, and local partnerships to address the challenges faced by individuals and families in the Coachella Valley. Through acts of service like providing food, cultivating community gardens, or supporting sustainability efforts—Neighbors 4 Neighbors embodies our Episcopal commitment to social justice and care for creation.
Just like St. Margaret’s philosophy that ALL are welcome here, the Neighbors-4-Neighbors program welcomes volunteers in the same way–including those who are disabled, marginalized, or simply considered the people who ‘need’ help, rather than the people who ‘can’ help. Our local community consists of individuals from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and experiences. We believe in the importance of fostering inclusivity and the creation of opportunities for all members to actively participate and contribute to the betterment of our community, and strive to find appropriate opportunities for anyone who wants to volunteer their time to tend to God’s creation with us.
Desert ARC is another vital partner of St. Margarets’ and the Neighbors-4-Neighbors initiative. Desert ARC provides life-enhancing programs to approximately 700 adults with disabilities, including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and Epilepsy; each supported by a person-centered plan, it fosters personal growth and development. This partnership not only enriches the lives of those served by Desert Arc but also strengthens St. Margaret’s shared mission of inclusivity and service to others.
Three years ago, Neighbors 4 Neighbors began an amazing partnership with our friends from Desert ARC. By offering them the chance to be agents of change rather than solely recipients of assistance, they are able to showcase their strengths, skills, and talents. It provides a sense of purpose and belonging while they develop new skills, make friends, and have a positive impact in the lives of others.
A partnership that started with one person with disabilities and their caretaker has grown to 8-12 ARC members and 2-3 ARC staff working 2-3 days a week in our food pantry, our compost program, community garden, weekly cardboard recycling, and so much more. This partnership serves as a weekly reminder that while we all have challenges in our lives, we all have unique, special, and wonderful gifts to share with the world. St. Margaret’s partnership with Neighbors 4 Neighbors and Desert ARC is a powerful message of inclusivity that breaks down barriers that often hinder their full participation in other areas of Palm Desert. This approach benefits our community as a whole. We at St. Margaret’s are blessed to be doing God’s work alongside these amazing volunteers!
If you would like to learn more about St. Margaret’s partnerships with local service agencies like Neighbors 4 Neighbors and Desert ARC, please email Chet Hecht at cheth@stmargarets.org