^^?BELLSOUTH Recogn ? ^ Union Baptist ? Church ? as a Community 1 H Service Award recipient - The church's First Friday programs have become popular by offering a variety of programs and services. i'limn lui/'li.tta Iiiui'Ii j. 'tfil.' t r-i,'ii 'I a ism 11 a,J tlw Ktrsj.U-m ;.s large, with more than 2.0(H) members, the congregation is a close-knit bunch.' Members unselfishly volunteer their time to keep more than 60 ministries afloat. Among them are a nursing home, food and clothing and AIDS ministries. While many black churches have been criticized for ignoring the AIDS crisis, this church has tackled the issue head-on. Members regularly volunteer with local AIDS programs, providing support to those living with the disease. The church also has partnerships with Win ston-Salem State University and Forsyth Technical Community College aimed at providing local peo pie with relevant educational skills. The Winston Salem Teen Center was formed through a partner ship between Union and the Housing Authority ol Winston-Salem. The center provides tutoring and leadership development for young people. Union has opened it doors, providing a number of groups space to hold meetings and events. Organizations such as Leadership Winston-Salem. Neighbors for Better Neighborhoods. Today's Woman and Sigma Theta Sorority have all taken advantage of the church's generosity. Through its popular Shekinah Glory Revival , series and First Friday events Union has brought to the city populuQhusicians and guest speakers, making their appearances free of charge to the public. The theme for Union is "A Church Determined to Live for Christ." Mack and members say they will continue to reach higher and try to touch as many people as they can through the church s multi-faceted outreach efforts. The Daughters of Eve exhibit at Union, which celebrates accomplishments of local women. -*?I The church pastor, Sir Walter Mack Jr.