In many ways, preparing for Shechem has felt like preparing for a marathon. Since coming up with the idea of Shechem back in 2013, we have been putting in the work- building partnerships, garnering support, completing feasibility studies, drawing up renderings, securing permits and raising funds. In January of 2021, Hope Street members, staff and volunteers took this to heart and began training for a real marathon. Like our capital campaign, being ready for the real thing took keen attention to our preparation, putting in more and more miles each week, making sure we were properly fueled. 

 

In each of our 12 weeks of training we shared a story from a member of our community of volunteers, members, board members, donors and staff. Each week, the story was about “donvestment”, where donations and investment meet. From experience we learned that when we donate something or when we give a part of ourselves to this community, we see a return on that investment. We have gained friendships. We have seen ourselves for who we are. We have become a part of something bigger than ourselves. We have seen God more clearly than we ever have before. 

 

In May of 2021 we had our first (and likely only ever) Hope Street marathon. The months of training made us ready for the day. We ran and walked from Hope Street on 26th in Capitol in Milwaukee out to Lake Country. When we made it to the finish line, we celebrated our accomplishment. We put in work and we were given back more. It meant so much because we knew if we were able to complete that marathon, we’d be able to finish the one we have been preparing for for far longer. Today, we are “running THE marathon” for Shechem. Our preparation is complete, we've put in the miles. Now, we are building Shechem. 

 

Take the time to read these stories, and see if you’d like to join us in donvestment.