For the seventh program of the
locally-produced Wyoming PBS series "Wyoming Families
First," faith and community-based initiatives are examined.
"Turning to Faith-Based Initiatives" features interviews with Jim Elias, Executive
Director of Faith Initiatives of Wyoming who is working as an intermediary
between faith-based organizations and government. Rev. Kurt Borgaard of
First Christian Church in Cheyenne discusses marriage initiatives, and
Lynette Saucedo discusses the after-school program in Torrington that she
helps to oversee. Father Kevin Koch speaks about the unique organization
Goshen County Community Concerns that blends faith and community-based
organizations.
"An important thing we learned while taping this program is that
faith-based initiatives are open to everyone, regardless of denomination
or beliefs," said Aliza Sherman, the show's producer. "And we discovered
that smaller communities with limited resources can be very creative in
forming partnerships to bring about positive change."
"Churches have long been in the 'business' of helping families in our
communities," said Rodger McDaniel, director of Wyoming's Department of
Family Services. "Now churches and community organizations are joining
forces to develop stronger programs in the state to achieve common goals
and better serve children and families on a local level."
