Self-Development of People
The Presbytery of Chicago’s Committee on the Self-Development of People (SDOP) shall assist the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in carrying out its global commitment to work toward the self-development of economically poor, oppressed, and disadvantaged people, who own, control, and benefit directly from projects that promote long-term change in their lives and communities. The mandate was established by the 182nd General Assembly of the former United Presbyterian Church, U.S.A. in 1970, and reaffirmed and approved by the 199th General Assembly (1987) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
The SDOP Committee is a ministry that affirms God’s concern for humankind.
We are Presbyterians and ecumenical partners dissatisfied with poverty and oppression, united in faith and action through sharing, confronting, and enabling by participating in the empowerment of economically poor, oppressed, and disadvantaged people, seeking to change the structures that perpetuate poverty, oppression, and injustice.
Please visit the SDOP website to learn more the criteria and grant making processes.
How you can help:
- Celebrate SDOP during the year! See the SDOP Sunday Resource & Yearbook here.
- If you are interested or know someone who is interested in helping us with our grantmaking work, email us. The rules that govern the grantmaking for SDOP require that the committee have a majority of non-white members.
- Give to the One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) offering at your church.
- Share our email and information with grassroots organizations you or your church relate to that meet the SDOP criteria.
Julio Pena, Moderator, Mission Committee
Lisa Dagher, Moderator, SDOP Committee
