Participating Congregations

Since 1969, congregations throughout Decatur and DeKalb have partnered with Decatur Cooperative Ministry (DCM) to serve those in need in our community. Member congregations are much more than a list of churches. They are churches that care about and feel called to partner in DCM's mission by working with other congregations toward a common goal, volunteering in our programs, and making financial and in-kind donations toward our ministry. Currently, over 35 congregations representing many different denominations contribute resources to DCM and its programs for homeless and at-risk families.

There are only two criteria for becoming a sponsoring congregation of Decatur Cooperative Ministry.

• The congregation will make a financial contribution to DCM on at least an annual basis. Each congregation determines the amount that it will contribute, and levels of financial support vary greatly among our sponsoring congregations. Some congregations choose to add Decatur Cooperative Ministry as a line item in their budget; others take up an offering or donate a portion of the proceeds from a special event. All levels of support are needed and are greatly appreciated.
• The congregation will offer volunteer support to DCM on at least an annual basis. Congregations send volunteers to serve in a wide variety of capacities. Some may offer help on a half-day service project while others provide dinner in the shelter for several weeks each year. There are truly opportunities for every area of interest and every level of time commitment.

In return, Decatur Cooperative Ministry agrees to provide the following to its member congregations.

• DCM will provide services and encouragement to our neighbors in need through programs such as Family Transitional Housing, Hagar's House Emergency Shelter, and Project Take Charge Homelessness Prevention Program. DCM accepts referrals from its members and strives to help those referred whenever possible.
• DCM will provide a variety of volunteer, educational, and worship opportunities. Congregations can set up volunteer projects, request speakers on DCM and topics related to poverty and homelessness, and participate in planning ecumenical worship services such as the Palm Sunday service and the annual Thanksgiving service.
• DCM will be a good steward of its financial and volunteer resources.
• DCM will provide open and honest communication and regular updates on the work of the ministry.
• DCM will invite and encourage member congregations to select at least two individual members to represent their congregation on DCM's Program Council, a group that serves in an advisory capacity to the board and staff.

Decatur Cooperative Ministry is an ecumenical agency of over 35 congregations from 12 denominations.  People and congregations of all faiths are welcomed as partners.  DCM works in conjunction with schools and educational institutions, government agencies, businesses, civic organizations, and community groups.  Services, employment opportunities, and volunteer opportunities are open to all qualified applicants, and DCM does not practice or tolerate any form of discrimination based on religion, race, physical ability, gender, or age.