Gaining Momentum in Denver

Claudia Svarstad is a woman with a fire in her heart. In just the 18 months since she joined Bread for the World in Denver, CO, Claudia has organized Offering of Letters workshops and other events, spoken at many local churches, attended the July 2005 G-8 summit in Scotland as a member of the BFW delegation, participated in Lobby Day this June and become a board member of the Alliance to End Hunger.

This summer, BFW members in Denver organized a program on National Hunger Awareness Day (June 6) that featured presentations by a rabbi and ministers from several Christian denominations. “Our goal is to get 10 local churches to hold Offerings of Letters,” said Svarstad. “Last year there was only one that we know about. We’ve had four so far this year, and there are active discussions underway in four more.” Later this summer, the activists will participate in Colorado Decides, a downtown event aimed at young working people. Along with Svarstad, other local BFW members are active in the ONE Campaign. For example, Matthew McCallister, who’s 17, persuaded his town to become a ONE city and then helped convince the state legislature to declare Colorado a ONE state.

Svarstad's experience at Lobby Day confirms for her the importance of writing to Congress. "Our church held an Offering of Letters during a service, and nearly everyone wrote a letter. I was able to bring 60 letters to our senators' offices in Washington, and I could tell they were carrying more weight. I was representing more than just myself."

Alliance to End Hunger Director Max Finberg said that Svarstad "is already making significant contributions as a board member, especially in membership and outreach." ONE Campaign Faith Outreach Organizer Holly Hight added, "I really appreciate how Claudia recognizes the importance of involving all partners – for-profit, nonprofit and government – in the fight against hunger."

“I find it totally amazing that you can go from having a cup of coffee with one person to speaking at dozens of local events,” said Svarstad. “And audiences are just so receptive. Of course it takes time and energy, but this really is a good time for all of us to get the word out about hunger and poverty.” Thank you to Claudia Svarstad and activists in Denver for your outstanding work!

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