The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans was a tremendous success, with nearly 17,000 participants raising close to $100,000 for Generation Zero-Hunger. As we celebrate 50 years of ELCA World Hunger, we reflect on our church’s deep commitment to addressing the root causes of hunger and poverty. Explore the resources available for this milestone and consider joining an upcoming immersion trip to Colombia. Learn more about these events and how you can get involved in the August 2024 issue of ELCA World Hunger's Go and Do News.

Empowering Youth, Celebrating Milestones, and Transforming Lives with ELCA World Hunger

The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans was a remarkable event, where nearly 17,000 participants came together to engage, learn, and contribute to the mission of ELCA World Hunger. Our youth raised nearly $100,000 in support of Generation Zero-Hunger, a campaign dedicated to ending hunger. Thanks to generous matching gifts, every dollar raised continues to be doubled until we reach our $250,000 goal. This incredible effort highlights the power of our community and the hope we share for a world without hunger.

At the Interactive Learning Center, youth and leaders embarked on learning journeys that deepened their understanding of the complex factors driving hunger both domestically and internationally. They reflected on how they can be part of the solution, and many are now equipped to bring these insights back to their communities. We encourage you to explore how you can use the Generation Zero-Hunger Interactive Journey guide in your congregation to inspire action and advocacy.

As we gear up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ELCA World Hunger, we are reminded of our church’s long-standing commitment to addressing the root causes of hunger and poverty. Resources to commemorate this milestone, including brochures, posters, and a video, are available for free at ELCA.org/WH50. These materials can help you engage your community in reflecting on our shared mission and inspire continued efforts toward a hunger-free world.

One of the highlights of the Youth Gathering was hearing from Pastor Emily Norris of The Dwelling in Winston-Salem, N.C., an ELCA World Hunger grant partner. Pastor Emily’s message of God’s insistent love for all people resonated deeply with the thousands in attendance, reminding us all of the profound truth that we are wholly loved by God, no matter our circumstances.

In addition to these inspiring events, we invite you to consider joining an immersion trip to Colombia this October, where you can witness firsthand the impact of your support on vulnerable communities. This journey will offer a powerful experience of the work being done by our companions in Colombia and provide an opportunity to deepen your connection to our global mission.

Finally, we want to hear how you plan to celebrate ELCA World Hunger’s 50th anniversary. Whether through fundraising initiatives or special worship services, your ideas can inspire others across our synod and beyond. Let us know how you’re getting involved by emailing Evie Landrau at evie.landrau@elca.org.

Together, we continue to witness to God’s promise of a time when we will hunger and thirst no more. Join us in this vital mission as we celebrate past achievements and look forward to what we can accomplish together in the years to come.