Find your people.

We, Steve and I, are headed to Christian Community Development Association (CCDA)'s annual conference in Portland, OR. This is a staple on our calendar where we connect with many social entrepreneurs and nonprofit ministries looking to make a difference in the communities where they live.

Conferences are unique experiences. They usually offer a combination of learning, connecting and inspiration. CCDA's annual conference has never disappointed on all three counts. As we head out this week, I commit to listen, learn and contribute, and hope to:

✔️ Be inspired. We will meet people this week working in the trenches, people doing great work without fanfare, without attention and without recognition for a job well done. These steadfast warriors do what they are called to do. Period. Their commitment and passion is inspiring.

✔️ Be encouraged. Community work is hard. It can feel defeating and lonely at times. CCDA practitioners, speakers and workshops remind me to keep on keeping on. Being surrounded by likeminded people is a unique opportunity that encourages me to keep going.

✔️ Be an encouragement. My favorite part of CCDA is the unique opportunity to encourage others. Kingdom work is hard. Making a difference in communities is hard. It is often thankless work but it is also incredibly rewarding. This week will provide opportunity to champion others, cheer them on and encourage them to keep going.

So what on your annual calendar provides you with inspiration and encouragement? I encourage you to find your people. Identify a conference that offers an experience to connect with others. There's nothing like being renewed, restored and reignited for passion and purpose. I can't wait! Portland here we come! ✈️

-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP