Unity in the Community supports Colorado Springs residents

The parking lot of First United Methodist Church in Colorado Springs was lively on Sunday during an event called Unity in the Community. This gathering offered a range of activities, including prayers, food, and face painting. It aimed to support local residents in need. Volunteers served grilled burgers and hot dogs. They also organized children’s activities and provided essentials like water, hygiene kits, and gently used clothing. Kalena Rodriguez from Unbreakable Ministries highlighted the goal of the event: to help the community and make sure no one feels alone. Unbreakable Ministries, founded in 2022 by mixed martial arts fighter Adam Vigil, focuses on mentorship, addiction counseling, and fitness support. Vigil shared his experiences with addiction to connect with those in need. He emphasized that he started this initiative because he wanted to see change in the community. The event was a collaboration between Unbreakable Ministries, Freedom Recovery, Recovery Anonymous, First United Methodist, and Midwest Food Bank of Arizona. Volunteers noted the importance of providing clothing, especially when thrift store prices can be high. John Oskin from Recovery Anonymous praised the effort and expressed a desire for more events like this. He believes that the work being done by these organizations can significantly improve the lives of those struggling. Vigil envisions creating a full-service community center that offers fitness resources, addiction recovery services, and housing support, among other services. He stressed that their mission is more than just temporary help; it’s about healing and support. During the event, Vigils showcased his championship title belt and encouraged kids to try boxing. He shared that fitness was crucial to his own recovery and believes it can help others too. Unity in the Community intends to hold weekly food donation events and one large event each month. Vigil expressed pride in the day’s accomplishments, noting that six individuals were baptized during the event. He reiterated that while they are faith-based, their primary goal is to love and support those in need, regardless of their beliefs.