You must provide the spiritual backing to improve the self-esteem and outlook of the individual. Without an understanding of who they are spiritually, we are merely creating a temporary solution. Faith-based programs are effective because they do more than just show individuals how to type, build, or cook. They show them the way of the Lord. They encourage the individuals to look within themselves and show them that they can do better with a boost from the Lord, and that the Lord will take care of all willing and able.
Community groups can also take an active role in their neighborhoods.
For example, the faith-based group, Clergy United for the Renewal of East Baltimore, or CURE, works to remove the drug element from neighborhoods, rehabilitate individuals, and provide a safe and communal environment. The Senior Baptist Church, within CURE, has purchased property in the surrounding neighborhood, to have its congregation return to the neighborhood. They work to remove the drug-dealers and prostitution from the neighborhood with the hopes of having the good citizens of the neighborhood return to the community. They have knocked out the negative and have started to rebuild with a positive neighborhood spirit. So I thank the members of this committee for following up on the church burning issue and challenge you to look beyond just the physical renewal of these Churches but beyond.