Rachel Project
RACHEL PROJECT
Grandparents Parenting Grandchildren
What is the Rachel Project?
Rachel Mahnke, for whom this project is named, created a flashpoint in my life and many in my church that awakened us to a need that remained largely invisible to many church people. Certainly, I was aware of the growing trends towards the need for grandparents to step in and raise grandchildren impacted largely by the opioid epidemic, but little did I understand the magnitude of this reality until I met Rachel.
I invite you to watch this video about Rachel’s story, and see if it doesn’t impact you as it did me.
I must confess, until Rachel stepped forward with courage and tenacity, I had no idea of the scope of this growing trend in our country and elsewhere. Nor did I realize the magnitude of the emotional, financial and spiritual trauma many of these grandparents were experiencing.
In honor of Rachel’s courage and willingness to be vulnerable, the RACHEL PROJECT is a ministry of ElderQuest advocating for awareness of the growing number of grandparents who are now parenting their own grandchildren. We believe most of these families are essentially invisible in many church congregations across the country. We desire to raise awareness, provide effective resources and tools for both families and church leaders, and create a network of trained volunteers to serve these families in the local church.
We are looking for ministry partners who share our passion for this growing need, and who desire to compassionately serve this important segment of the family of God in their own church or community. We also need those who can provide financial support for this endeavor. Below are four areas in which you can help us move forward:
1. Recruit and train compassionate volunteers in your area who can help organize grand-family events and/or identify important local and state resources in your area.
2. Supporters who can provide financial assistance for the following:
a. Our goal is to develop and maintain effective resources for grandparents and church leaders to equip and support grandparents raising grandchildren families
b. We would like to provide support for a staff person to effectively oversee and implement this project nationally.
If you would like more information about becoming a ministry partner in your area, please email me at cavin@cavinharper.com.
For Pastors/Church Leaders
ElderQuest is available to help you implement an effective way to serve this important demographic in your church. Watch for an announcement soon about coaching options to come alongside you and your congregation to explore effective ways to support and integrate these Grand Families in the family of God.
I you have any questions about grand families in your congregation, please either email me at cavin@cavinharper.com, or call me directly at 719-649-6778 to discuss your situation.
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