Resident in Service United in Partnership (Rise Up) is an initiative spearheaded by local pastors and Selma Ward 3 councilwoman Miah Jackson.

They have united to bring change to the community through the cleaning and beautification of Ward 3.

“Our idea is to partner with local businesses and community organizations and try to get everyone involved,” Jackson said. “I’ve identified several areas that were of concern to me in Ward 3.”

The group will meet at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church located at 301 Broad Street on July 14 at 8 a.m. Clean-up will be from 8: 30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

The Rev. Jack Alvey, rector for St. Paul Episcopal Church, said the Rise Up initiative is good for the community.

“It’s an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize that we’re in this together and in the same boat,” he said.

After getting some inspiration from a scripture in the Bible, Alvey came up with the acronym for the initiative.

“The story and scripture that came to mind was the raising of Lazarus,” he said. “The words ‘Rise Up’ just came to my mind. When I think about Selma and what the churches could be doing is sort of a Lazarus moment.”

Alvey said the churches’ involvement in the community is essential, and it helps citizens with knowing they have the support and love of local churches.

“I think the churches have a lot to do with encouraging the community and listening to the community,” Alvey said. “It’s important for the churches to show the community they care about the interests, livelihood and well-being of the community.”

Rise Up is a collaborative effort and both Jackson and Alvey feel that collaboration is the key to making this project a success.

“Together we can do a lot more than when we’re individuals or small groups,” he said.