Books and Resources: Connecting The Dots

 

Our turbulent economy changes daily; so does poverty. We have provided the following resource list for you so that you can stay educated on what happening in poverty today. In addition, United Ministries offers a variety of workshops, simulations and other programs to help you stay current.

 

Understanding Poverty in the Classroom: Changing Perceptions for Student Success

Forty percent or more of public school children live in poverty in almost half of our 50 states. The classroom can be a difficult environment for low-income students who may understand the world differently from their teachers’ middle-class worldviews. Understanding Poverty in the Classroom: Changing Perceptions for Student Success: 1) Helps sensitize educators to cultural and socioeconomic issues as they identify perceptual differences; 2) Offers teaching strategies that address the special needs of children from poverty; 3) Encourages teachers to learn about the neighborhoods where their students live; 4) Confronts myths about poverty; and 5) Reinforces learning with specific and practical illustrations.

 

Servant or Sucker? Wise and Compassionate Ways to Help the Poor

This interactive DVD was inspired by Beth Lindsay Templeton’s workshop “Helping Others - Servant or Sucker?” and put together by EcuFilm, the professional production company of the United Methodist denomination. It helps viewers address poverty on both personal and organizational levels. 


 

 

Loving Our Neighbor: A Thoughtful Approach To Helping People In Poverty 

This book by Our Eyes Were Opened Director Beth Lindsay Templeton provides practical advice for churches, businesses, civic organizations, school groups and individuals who need seasoned guidance in making wise and compassionate decisions when approached for financial donations.

 

 

Conversations On The Porch

Conversations on the Porch is set on a screened porch that Templeton created for herself as a refuge.  As different biblical women visit Templeton, Scriptures come alive in fresh and insightful ways.  The conversations she shares with Eve, Huldah, Mary, Lydia, and others not only address issues of women and of the world in general, but also demonstrate that biblical women's stories and insights are as vital and important today as they were when their stories were first told.  Conversations center on such common challenges as blame, forgiveness, grief, joy, conflict, sacrifice, trust, hope, courage, wisdom, and above all, living in the power of God's love and grace.  Conversations on the Porch shares the refreshing and courageous voices of biblical women as they encourage others to embrace life as a child of God and continue the inspiring conversation.


 


About The Author
Beth Templeton is a minister who clearly understands both the heart of the charitable organization and the need for focus and planning when it comes to helping those in need. With 29+ years of experience as a nonprofit executive at United Ministries, Templeton uses her knowledge to:

  • Provide an understanding of the Biblical call to help
  • Assist others in comprehending a life of poverty
  • Advise the different ways to aid those battling financial hardship
  • Illustrate how to organize a direct ministry for a church
  • Facilitate others in gaining a deeper understanding of the social and economic conditions that lead to poverty

Templeton shares fresh insights, thought-provoking lessons, and timeless wisdom that exemplify an organized and compassionate process that includes various approaches designed to help others decide how, when, and whom to help in times of need.