Stronger Together
Why Community Building?
Thriving neighborhoods depend on strong connections. Human beings are healthier, happier, and live longer when we are tied to others in community. The role of the Community Building team is to help Matthew 25 and our neighbors find more opportunities to connect with each other.
5,600+ Volunteers engaged
240,000+ Volunteer hours contributed
80+ One-on-one neighbor conversations in 2024
Our programs
Strategies for Building Community
Shared spaces, shared experiences, shared meaning. Whether it’s conversation over a meal in Groundswell Cafe, volunteering to repair a house during Transform Week, or gathering to hear live stories on stage from local residents, our aim is for everything we do to have a community-building element to it.
Listening Conversations
The best way for us to know our neighbors, volunteers, and guests is to take time to ask questions and listen.
Volunteer Opportunities
Serving alongside others is a great way to meet new people, put your gifts to work, and build meaningful relationships.
Community Arts and Events
Our Groundswell Cafe, Urban Farm, and Cultivate Hope Corner Store all offer places to gather for learning, stories, arts, and fun together.
Teaching Community
We offer resources and training for people interested in building community. Check out our CR Community Builders resource. (coming soon)
Become a Community Builder!
Sign up to learn more about building strong communities with Matthew 25. We’ll share stories, tips, and opportunities to help you build stronger community wherever you are.
Latest News
Take a Look at What’s Happening
Check out what we’ve been up to lately and what’s coming soon. Learn about upcoming events and other ways to get involved.
Community Building
Community Building Potluck – Bringing People Together
Join us the first Tuesday of every month at Groundswell
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Community Building
Dedication of the Hadley Hangout Space
Since Matthew 25’s founding, the Hadleys have been key supporters, from Len serving as President of the Board, to helping to paint our first space, cleaning up after the flood, and providing generous financial support.
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Community Building
Storytellers of Cedar Rapids Kicks Off with Spectacular Success!
The new series debuted with a fun night of music, open mics, and unforgettable stories.
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Stories of Impact
Healthy Food During Cancer Treatments
While being treated for cancer, one of our Cultivate Hope Corner Store shoppers has been stocking up on our Good Meals To Go with every visit. She needs healthy food to strengthen her body during this process and was thrilled to discover that she can get a well-rounded meal at an affordable price, without the stress of shopping, planning, and cooking.
Stories of Impact
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
A volunteer team finished some much-needed repairs for a neighbor with a brain tumor during our annual Transform Week. These repairs helped make the home livable and has inspired the homeowner to do more to make it feel like a home, including hanging up pictures.
Stories of Impact
Community Built at Groundswell Cafe
One of Groundswell Cafe’s regular customers made sure to bring her daughter, who she had recently reunited with, to the Cafe and introduce her to “her friends” on staff.
Stories of Impact
Derecho Repairs Help Home and Family
A mother of two received much-needed derecho repair assistance through the PATCH Program. Every bit of work on this home created peace of mind and alleviated serious stress, but also created a safe environment for her family.
