What do we mean when we talk about “neighborhood”? Is it a place identified by streets and landmarks, where members of the community know one another and are quick to respond when a need arises? Or is it a commitment to loving another as yourself, and to recognizing that your “neighbor” may not always live right next door. The example set by Christian Appalachian Project’s (CAP) BuildUp event, held on Aug 4, 2018, shows that “neighborhood” can mean all of these things.

BuildUP was created to make it easier for individuals living in CAP’s service areas to serve with CAP by offering an opportunity to participate in a one day housing repair blitz. CAP’s  Housing Programs arranged for projects to be done in Rockcastle, Floyd, and Johnson Counties on a Saturday, enabling volunteers living in those counties and as far as Illinois and South Carolina to participate. As with all Housing volunteer opportunities, no previous experience was required – only the hands and heart to get the job done.

Three counties, seven homes repaired, and 51 volunteers, and 408 volunteer hours later, BuildUP had brought together employees, volunteers, church partners, and community members to share Christ’s love through service in Appalachia. What an incredible example of what “neighborhood’ can be.