Navigating School Partnerships

Join with Jerome, Becky, and Erica as they talk with Community Minister, Mike Lindeman, about how to build lasting relationships with local schools.

Summary

In this inspiring episode, the Salty Talk team welcomes guest Mike Lindeman, Community Minister at Northstar Church in Atlanta, to discuss what it really looks like to serve local schools with consistency, compassion, and no strings attached. With over a decade of experience building sustainable school partnerships, Mike shares stories, strategies, and encouragement for churches looking to make a long-term difference in their local education systems. Hosts Becky, Erica, and Jerome add their own perspectives from across the country, highlighting the beauty of diverse approaches united by one goal: showing up in schools to demonstrate the love of Christ.

Key Takeaways:

• Start with Relationship, Not Agenda
  Church-school partnerships thrive when they begin with trust. Ask school leaders what they need instead of assuming.

• Serve with No Strings Attached
  Impact comes not from invites to church, but from presence, reliability, and love—offered freely and without expectation.

• Use What You Already Have
  From volunteers to photographers, churches are full of hidden skills. “Asset mapping” your church can unlock simple but powerful ways to bless school staff and families.

• Consistency Builds Credibility
  Showing up once a year is good. Showing up every week changes everything. Sustainable, small-scale efforts have a lasting impact.

• From Access to Advocacy
  Over time, faithful service can lead to a seat at the table—where church leaders are trusted to help solve systemic needs, not just immediate ones.

• Every Church Can Play a Part
  Whether you're in a small town or a big city, the principles are the same: build relationships, meet real needs, and point to Jesus through your actions.

“We want to serve and love [others] with no strings attached.” -Mike

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