PROGRAM OVERVIEW:

What could it look like to blend organic, disciple-making with asset-based community development in a sustainable way that transforms communities? That is the heart of Integrated Community Transformation (ICT)!

The Community Transformation Center is a 40-week practical learning experience that combines principles of disciple-making and community development, along with leadership training, to equip participants to lead movements of ICT in communities around the world.

What is the Community Transformation Center?

• 40 week program
• Hosted by One Collective in partnership with Land of the Living ministry
• ON SITE in Eastern Cape, South Africa
• Combines classroom learning with REAL WORLD ministry experience
• Taught by professionals with extensive experience in cross-cultural work and community transformation

Who can benefit?

Anyone who believes in the inseparable nature of Jesus' discipling and compassionate work, and would like to gain skills necessary to engage a community in their own transformation.

PRIMARY LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Enhanced understanding and internalization of Integrated Community Transformation (ICT) and related core principles with respect to discipleship and development.
• Gain practical experience with strategic approaches and tools that can be used in facilitating ICT.
• Acquire experience in serving a local community organization – building relationally, gaining grassroots experience and perspective, and practicing ICT skills in order to enhance their programmatic scope, sustainability and impact.
• Develop understanding of specific topics addressed in ICT, and how they are integrated and mutually influential with respect to needs, strengths, interventions and impact.
• Form relationships with local community and church leaders, and (where applicable) explore opportunities for potentially serving as a One Collective Catalyst.

TRAINING CURRICULUM CONTENT:

• Personal growth: self-awareness, healthy spiritual practices, living and working cross-culturally, and listening to God and others within communities.
• Core principles of Integrated Community Transformation (ICT).
• Practical development/discipleship tools and approaches for facilitating ICT.
• Promotion of business and entrepreneurship as an integral part of ICT.
• The Catalyst's ”general contractor” role in facilitating ICT – including leadership, team building and mobilization of local and external resources.
• Enhanced understanding and integration of specific issues of focus in ICT – including Food (physical needs), Freedom (psychological and life opportunity needs) and Forgiveness (spiritual needs).
• Enhanced understanding of priority issues faced and approaches used in the context of South African townships and rural settlements.
• Practical internships with local community-based organizations and participation in regional leaders' network gatherings – with culmination in written/oral presentation.

ADDITIONAL:

• Become acquainted with the culture and history of South Africa.
• Live and grow in a community of fellow practitioners and local leaders.
• Several group outings as well as free times are included, so you can explore the area.
• You are encouraged to invite friends and family to our closing graduation ceremony in December.