Rio Texas Methodist Federation for Social Action

Efforts to Improve Racial Relations in Austin

The “Building Bridges: Brick by Brick” project, led by Travis County Sheriff Greg Hamilton and Mike Manor, began as a collaboration between law enforcement agencies and community groups with a focus on improving communication, and developing and expanding relationships with the diverse communities of Austin. It has now grown into a community-wide initiative that involves representatives from school districts, health and human services, faith communities and others. Travis County Sheriff’s Office Building Bridges: Brick by Brick is a community agenda initiative that formed from a 2005 grant awarded to the Travis County Sheriff’s Office from the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC). A group of more than 60 Travis County community members met in February 2006 during a one day summit and made the recommendation to “optimize building bridges”  with the neighborhoods, law enforcement and faith based groups to create meaningful and sustainable conversations. Thus the Building Bridges: Brick by Brick community agenda became reality. You are invited to attend a public forum on Friday, August 17.

 Building Bridges: Brick by Brick

Hosts – Forgiveness Friday Forum

Panel Discussion With Christian Churches Collaborating For Change – 4Cs
A Criminal Justice Coalition of Churches

Friday, August 17, 2012

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

2951 East 14^th Street; Austin, Texas

6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

TOPIC:“The 4Cs- Bridging The Church, Re-Entry and Forgiveness“

Other opportunities to be involved:

“Courageous Conversation” the first Saturday of each month fosters dialogue among people throughout the community to develop better understanding and to dispel stereotypes.  St. James Episcopal Church Founder’s Hall, 1941 Webberville Rd., 9 -11:30.

At weekly Friday forums, activists from churches, law enforcement, NAACP, AISD, ACC, and other organizations, report on progress of ongoing projects. 9 -10am at the NAACP office at 1704 E 12^th St.

From Jan Dawes:  “Most of the efforts are concentrated in East Austin, and the people I’ve talked to are eager to have wider participation.  As always, if you have questions, comments, or would like to carpool, please let me know.”  jdawes@grandecom.net.