Putting Faith in Neighborhoods: Making Cities Work Through Grassroots Citizenship

An excellent book for those interested in helping their communities. I would suggest that every mayor, governor, council person, pastor, teacher, director or consultant read this book! This book examines the importance of all non-profits, religious organizations and government agencies working together to make a change in their community.

Steve Goldsmith shows us that the involvement of faith-based organizations in urban neighborhoods does not damage or infringe upon the relationship between church and state. Instead, he provides a logical argument for how local neighborhood churches can lead the process for neighborhood re-transformation. Often, it is the neighborhood church that provides the only symbol of hope for those in need, and the only resource for individuals who need support to overcome serious social problems. A must read for all urban mayors. Actually, a must read for all those who are trying to make a difference in urban neighborhoods.

This book provides tangible evidence that local citizens are best able to solve local problems. It also shows why neighborhood churches can play an important role in these efforts. The book is a quick read and can serve as a guide for people who want to get more involved in improving their communities.

Mr. Goldsmith obviously has an excellent grasp of what it takes to make a modern American city work. He does not lose sight of noble dreams and goals, yet manages to remain firmly rooted in the realities and challenges of urban life. He provides inspiration and hope to those who feel overwhelmed by the "bigness" of cities and government. He conveys the message that individuals do count and that they can make a difference, and even provides a blue print for how to organize the effort. The most important aspect of this book is that this guy is not simply espousing another theory. He's actually done it and seen it work! This book should be required reading for all mayors.

In his new book "Putting Faith in Neighborhoods," former Indianapolis Mayor Steven Goldsmith details the less visible but perhaps most valuable legacy of his administration: neighborhood renewal. As mayor, Mr. Goldsmith worked with grass roots organizations and neighborhood groups to find workable solutions to the nagging problems that often plague our cities. In this book Goldsmith outlines the steps that were so successful during his administration. I would recommend this book to any not-for- profit or community groups looking for a road map for making their own search for local solutions a success.