Project Transformation Launches Program at Hamilton UMC

Project Transformation Tennessee, a faith-based organization that provides summer and afterschool programs to more than 900 children across Tennessee, launched a new program in the Antioch community this summer, where it will serve approximately 70 children at Hamilton United Methodist Church (UMC).

Hamilton UMC is a multiracial and multicultural church whose members represent 18 different nations. They hold regular worship services in English and Arabic, as well as special events in Spanish. In addition, they are the busiest Second Harvest food bank site in Middle Tennessee based on the number of people served and hours open.

“I see Project Transformation coming alongside our parents and schools as a key community program which helps secure solid reading skills that establish a solid foundation upon which our children can build a bright future,” said the Rev. Charles Welchance, pastor at Hamilton United Methodist Church.

The new Hamilton location acts as one of four sites in Davidson County as the former site located at Ebenezer Hispanic Ministry (Iglesia Metodista Ebenezer) relocates from The Nations neighborhood to southeast Nashville.

“For the last several years, Project Transformation has been discussing the implications of gentrification in our city. We have met with city and school leaders, learned from our program participant families, and studied the shifting demographic data,” says Courtney Aldrich, Executive Director of Project Transformation. “We want to make sure our programs are most accessible to the families who most need them.”

In addition to the new location, Project Transformation is continuing to partner with Antioch United Methodist Church, Matthews Memorial United Methodist Church, and Trinity Community Commons sites in Davidson County.

The mission of Project Transformation is to engage young adults in purposeful leadership and ministry, support children in holistic development, and connect churches with communities.