Change for the Poor by Mark McKnelly provides a philosophical and practical foundation for Christians invested in life restoration for individuals in extreme poverty, specifically those participating in long-term residential recovery. The book is divided into sections based on three vital principles that bring change for the poor: Relationships, Structure, and Accountability.
Credit goes to Amanda Fisher for providing insight into this book and the material for this blog series.
McKnelly emphasizes a highly structured program for individuals in need of restoration. Many in poverty have only experienced chaotic environments with little to no routine, rules, or expectations. He provides detailed information regarding the specific phases of the 12-18 month commitment, including a model for a daily schedule.
The elements of the program are called the “Five Areas of Wholistic Change”:
- Spiritual
- Relational
- Personal
- Vocational
- Financial
McKnelly gives detailed implementation ideas for each area and emphasizes that ignoring any of the five is detrimental. The graduates who experience long-term success are restored in all five areas.
We hope that you can see how the Living Hope Program is built on structure. The phases of the Program are built upon the Five Areas of Wholistic Change, touching every part of the men’s lives. When men enter the Finding Rest phase, they can re-set before leaning into these areas. The Choosing Change and Igniting Hope phases allow for growth in the spiritual, relational, personal, vocational, and financial areas of their lives. As they move into Growing Resilience phase, they are experiencing restoration and moving toward the next phase of their lives.
