Limited resources don’t have to hold your church back from meaningful engagement with the neighborhood! Ministry consultants Joy Skjegstad and Heidi Unruh share a range of inexpensive ideas for local outreach that focus on creativity, celebration and connection. Energize the congregation by involving people based on what they like to do best and care about the most. Joy and Heidi will guide participants in next steps toward “less-is-more” community outreach that can happen all throughout the coming year.

Joy Skjegstad is a national speaker, author and consultant with over 35 years of experience starting and growing nonprofits and church-based community ministry programs.  She founded the Institute for Ministry Leaders at the University of St. Thomas, and has held a variety of other leadership positions with nonprofit groups. She is the author of four books: Real Connections; 7 Creative Models for Community Ministry; Starting a Nonprofit at Your Church; and Winning Grants to Strengthen Your Ministry. 

Heidi Unruh  is a writer, trainer and coach supporting God’s people in their calling to love their neighbors. A Palmer Seminary alumna, Heidi develops practical resources for effective, asset-based ministry. In addition to working with churches, her collaborations have included World Vision, Christians for Social Action (formerly ESA), the Center for Congregations, and various Christian colleges and seminaries. She brings special expertise in faith-and-work initiatives, coalition building, and trauma-informed ministry with vulnerable families and youth. She lives in Hutchinson, KS. Books coauthored by Heidi include: Churches That Make a Difference; Real Connections; Hope for Children in Poverty; Saving Souls, Serving Society; Salt & Light Guidebook; and Equipping Christians for Kingdom Purpose in Their Work.