For over 40 years, Valley Interfaith has trained ordinary people to build relationships across racial, denominational, economic and geographic boundaries and have a powerful voice in the decision-making that affects our families. We organize around the issues that shape everyday life from infrastructure and job training to supporting immigrant communities, environmental protections, and blocking corporate subsidies. 

ORGANIZING POWER

In one-on-one conversations, people learn about each other's interests and the pressures facing our families. These pave the way for focused small group conversations, which lead to developing an agenda of issues that leaders advance through local public action.  

DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP

Valley Interfaith engages in a cycle of leadership development through formal and hands-on training. Training begins within institutions, with core teams that represent the diversity of their communities, and extends to state, regional and national opportunities. 

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES

When leaders talk to each other about their interests, develop an agenda of issues, and take action together, institutions and neighborhoods are strengthened. Rio Grande Valley residents can effectively participate in the democratic process, hold government accountable at all levels, and win concrete victories. 

The West/Southwest IAF

Valley Interfaith is an affiliate of the West/Southwest Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), a network of broad-based organizations building power to revitalize our democracy for constructive social and economic change. Affiliates are in 33 cities across the U.S. (in states highlighted in blue).

The West/Southwest IAF is the regional network of the national IAF, the oldest and largest organizing and leadership development network in the United States. IAF organizations are non-partisan. None will endorse any candidate or party for elected office, nor pursue or accept government funding.

Each West/Southwest IAF affiliate is comprised of dues-paying member institutions, including religious congregations, schools, civic associations, unions, and non-profits that share a concern for families and a tradition of faith and democracy.