Dear editor,

Transformation is coming to Selma in the form of an exciting and innovative initiative partnering community volunteers with low-income families seeking a better future story. This initiative is called Circles of Transformation (COT), and for many community members of Selma, it is an initiative they have been hard at work to launch. Their hard work is now paying off as Selma gets ready to host its first “Taste and See” on Aug. 17th to give community members the opportunity to experience a sample of the encouragement and community building provided in a weekly COT meeting. The evening will include dinner, childcare, a brief overview of COT and a time of fellowship.

What makes Circles of Transformation different from other ministries working with those who struggle financially?

The methodology is unique in that COT works with families who do not have enough, encouraging them to set and reach goals to build a better future for themselves. Instead of “handouts,” COT seeks to address the root causes of financial and personal issues. As volunteer Andy Gartman says, “Many initiatives address the symptoms that result from living without enough resources, but they don’t address the root causes. Circles of Transformation seems to me to be one of the most effective ways to address the root issues.” To address these issues, participants (low-income families) go through several weeks of training, learning about budgeting, setting goals, forming healthy relationships, and other necessary life skills.

Volunteers also go through training to learn how to have successful and fruitful relationships across socioeconomic, cultural, and racial lines. At the end of training, two or three volunteers are matched with a participant, forming a small circle of support. Through continued weekly meetings, volunteers come alongside participants, providing a safe space and cheering participants on as they work towards their goals.

As Dothan graduate Rosalynn Richards states, “Circles of Transformation is a positive place for adults. It’s a place where I can discuss my goals and aspirations and have support and encouragement from [volunteers].”

Thanks to the hard work of wonderful advocates such as Judge Bob Armstrong and the collaboration with Dallas County Family Resource Center, Selma is ready to change lives.

COT Selma is now looking for hard-working and dedicated participants and volunteers. If you are interested in learning more, the “Taste and See” will be held Aug. 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Memorial United Methodist Church, located at 2150 Broad St.

For more information on Circles of Transformation, contact COT Coordinators Fred and Laurel Blackwell at 524-3652 or circles@awfumc.org, or call the Dallas County Family Resource Center at 874-7785.

Heather Allen
Circles of Transformation