Lots of great things have happened in Branch Out during 2021 & 2022
Go to the button below to read more about it:
Branch Out is The Olive Branch commitment to being 'out there', out there where the needs are, passionately engaged in the struggles of others.
Responsible to make God's love visible, we partner with other agencies to serve those whom Jesus calls 'blessed': who struggle because of poverty, injustice, serious illness or social alienation.
Throughout the year we will have various 'Branch Out Initiatives' where we put out the call to the church to be involved with a special need or project. No two projects are the same. Interested in being a part of it? Email branchout@tob.ca for more info
Throughout the year Branch Out efforts are focused on three main strategic thrusts:
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Branch Out supports and encourages community organizations that work effectively with the poor and distressed in the GTA and abroad. The support is in the form of volunteers, financial resources, special projects and visibility within our church community. Go to the button below for a list of our current community partners.
COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE
- Branch Out provides direct help to those in distress in our community by providing both volunteers and financial assistance. Volunteers provide a range of care, including meal support, visitation, prayer support, assistance in transportation and moving, etc. Care Planners, in partnership with Restore Canada are available to assist in more complex cases, when many types of assistance are required to help people build and cross a bridge to a healthier and more sustainable life.
- Interested in becoming a Care Planner or a volunteer within our Care Network? Contact BranchOut@tob.ca
- Need assistance? Email BranchOut@tob.ca or contact Help@Restore.org
COMMUNITY AND CONGREGATIONAL INITIATIVES
Branch Out will support community outreach opportunities initiated by members of the congregation or by ministries within The Olive Branch. We want to give people the tools, confidence and support to engage in their world in a missional way.
One current example of this is The Olive Branch Gym Nights. A few years ago, two families in the church wanted to rent a school gym where they could invite neighbourhood and church families to play together and build community. With the financial support of Branch Out they have continued to run this program.
This story is an example of us living up to the statement that "we got your back" when church attenders act as the hands and feet of Jesus to serve people in the community.
We will also support ministry leaders as they plan events and initiatives that intentionally engage our community or encourage the congregation to share the good news of Jesus in their neighbourhoods, schools, workplaces and social communities. (i.e. camp, community carnival/block party, praying for schools, etc.)
We want to support people to connect with their neighbours, build community, and shine the light of Jesus wherever they are.