The October 18 Transform Westside Summit brought together a diverse group of attendees—business and faith leaders, community members and Westside residents—all committed to the shared mission of strengthening the Westside through meaningful service and support. John Ahmann, Westside Future Fund President and CEO, and Ebony Ford, a proud resident of English Avenue, welcomed attendees and Dr. Alix Pierre, a Senior Lecturer at Spelman College and homeowner through the Home on the Westside program, led the devotion.
The event featured a panel discussion, moderated by John Ahmann. Panelists included Reverend Kenneth Alexander, Pastor of Antioch Baptist Church North, and Reverend Terry Hightower, Executive Director of Antioch Urban Ministries. The discussion highlighted the longstanding commitment of Antioch Baptist Church North and Antioch Urban Ministries in supporting Atlanta’s Westside neighborhoods through faith-driven services, emphasizing their missions to assist and uplift underserved community members.
Key Takeaways from the Conversation
Faith as a Catalyst for Community Empowerment
Speakers highlighted how faith, when translated into action, becomes a powerful force for positive change. By focusing on service, they strive to uplift individuals and communities alike, embodying a faith-driven commitment to support one another.
Collaboration and Building Sustainable Support Networks
Both leaders stressed the importance of collaborating with other community organizations and stakeholders, which enables them to provide holistic support and address complex community challenges. Effective community support relies on sustainable, adaptable systems that can meet changing needs. The panelists shared frameworks for establishing and growing support networks that last, fostering resilience and unity in the face of challenges.
Commitment to Long-Term Solutions
The Summit reinforced the idea that faith, when combined with action, can help communities build resilience, offering support and resources that promote unity and hope for the future. Through a range of programs, Antioch Baptist Church North and Antioch Urban Ministries focus on sustainable impact, including homelessness support, addiction recovery and youth programs, all aimed at fostering long-term empowerment.
The Ripple Effect of Small Actions
From volunteers to community leaders, each person’s effort contributes to a larger impact. Small, intentional acts of service can create a ripple effect, inspiring others and building stronger networks of support and care. Attendees were challenged to carry the day’s lessons forward and commit to acts of service in their own communities.
Miss the event? Watch the full Transform Westside Summit on YouTube.