Mayor Keller Brings Together Local Faith Leaders for Annual Event
City officials gathered to strengthen relationships with local faith leaders
Mayor Tim Keller and First Lady Liz Kistin Keller hosted the City’s Annual Faith Leaders Breakfast, welcoming clergy, nonprofit leaders and community advocates from across Albuquerque.
The annual event held at the Albuquerque Rail Yards, served as a space for dialogue between city leadership and Albuquerque’s diverse faith communities. Mayor Tim Keller and First Lady Liz Kistin Keller addressed attendees and spoke about the support that local faith leaders provide the community with a special focus on the youth of Albuquerque. First Lady pointed out the role that city and faith leadership members play in providing support and guidance for Albuquerque youth in leading them toward leadership roles of their own.
“Our youth are already shaping our City’s future,” said First Lady, Liz Kistin Keller. “When we give them a chance to lead, to serve and find their voice, we strengthen Albuquerque.”
Mayor Kell emphasized the City’s ongoing work to create pathways for youth opportunity, including the partnership with Central New Mexico Community College to transform the historic Albuquerque Rail Yards into a new film school that will open doors for students interested in creative and technical careers.
In addition to youth-focused efforts, Mayor Keller spoke about the city’s expanding collaboration with faith-based organizations to address homelessness and resources for those in need. He noted the opening of the Gateway Center and further expansion like Teen Gateway, will help the city to work hand-in-hand with churches and non-profits to provide direct outreach, shelter and wraparound services.
“The Gateway Center is creating new intersections between city and faith-based compassion,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “When we come together with the same mission, we multiply our impact.”
This year’s breakfast brought both of these priorities together by building for the future and investing in youth leaders and serving those in most need in the community through united action.