Reconciliation Services to host first annual ‘Hike for Reconciliation’ this weekend
Reconciliation Services is hosting its first annual Hike for Reconciliation event this Saturday, Nov 4.
Reconciliation Services is a nonprofit organization that seeks to address deep-rooted issues of trauma, poverty, and racial division through social and mental health services as well as community-building events. They are also the parent organization of Thelma’s Kitchen.
The Hike for Reconciliation will offer participants the opportunity to learn more about the impacts of slavery and disinvestment on the neighborhood of Troost in hopes to take steps towards racial reconciliation. The hike will take participants on a 3.1-mile route through the neighborhood beginning at Troost Park at 10:30 a.m. with featured sites along the way including Troost Lake, Union Hill, North Paseo, and Troost Ave. Along the route, participants will be able to participate in learning and reflection stations to educate themselves on Troost’s history.
Through the hike, Father Justin Matthews, CEO of Reconciliation Services hopes to foster an environment that will create room for healing.
“Reconciliation is at the heart of Reconciliation Services’ work in the community, serving as our guiding framework for our vision and mission. While acknowledging that there’s much work ahead to heal the wounds of the past, the Hike for Reconciliation is a tangible step towards achieving this goal,” says Matthews.
The hike will end with a community celebration at the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority lot with live music, activities, and food provided by Thelma’s Kitchen.
The hike is a donate-what-you-can event and all proceeds will go towards Reconciliation Services. All ages are welcome to attend. For more information and to register for the hike, click here.
