Current Programs (Fall 2021):
Youth Group: Middle and High School youth meet at least one time each month on Saturdays for lunch, discussion of a Biblical theme, and then they work on activities to help them navigate the challenges of growing up in today’s world with the multiple identities they each have (example: young, immigrant, male, dark skinned, English language learner, etc.).
Tutoring: Elementary students (grades K-5) come to the center once a week for large group activities as well as small group instruction in basic skills in reading, language arts and mathematics in addition to individualized help with homework. Students also are fed dinner before returning home.
Bible Study en español: Spanish speaking adults from the community are invited on Wednesday evenings to a Bible Study offered by our partner congregation Marvin UMC/Comunidad de Gracia. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, this is currently being held via Facebook live.
Latino Congress: We are part of the North Carolina Congress of Latino Organizations, a community organizing group who works with Latinx neighbors on a variety of issues which can be challenging for the community. Together, the group works to bring about positive change in their community. For example, the addition of more bilingual staff in Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools was something the Latino Congress was a strong advocate for in recent years.
Blessing Box/pantry: We have a blessing box outside which can be accessed at all times. Neighbors can add or take food and toiletry items from it as needed. In addition, we have a pantry inside the building which we keep stocked with some extra items for the meals we serve during our programs and for when the families we serve have extra needs.
Free Little Library: Our free little library is outside the center and available at all times. Just like the blessing box, neighbors can add or take books, CDs, or DVDs whenever they want/need.
Special Events: Once in a while our building/property is used to host a special event such as a soccer clinic or a mobile food pantry.
How Can You Help?
Youth Group – We need mentors, especially bilingual adults, who are willing to come to youth group meetings and special events and spend time with the teens. We especially need MEN to help with this at this time (but women will not be turned away).
Tutoring – We need volunteers from grade 10 and up to help with tutoring our elementary students when our regular tutors are not available. We also need individuals or groups to provide the meal on these evenings.
Sign up here to provide the meal: 
Latino Congress– There is nothing specific we need currently, however the congress is building a multiethnic coalition of partners to support us in our work. Stay informed and help advocate for policies and programs that help your Latino neighbors.
Blessing Box, Pantry & Free Little Library – Donations are accepted at any time. Please call or email ahead for large donations.
Special Events: We are always interested in hosting special events if your church/group wants to come to Open Arms and offer a soccer clinic or Vacation Bible School or some other outreach activity to the families we work with. Let us know what you have in mind, and we will help coordinate it.
If you would like to volunteer to help with the Youth Group, Tutoring, or a special event, please email: openarmsumcommunity@outlook.com or call: 336-724-0850 and we will help get you started.
