Vision
The children of Athens grow into the men and women of God who help our city and its people flourish
Mission
We seek the welfare of Athens
by investing in the youth of our city
Values
Partnership - We believe that the greatest results and progress come from connection and cooperation across a wide range of partners. We unashamedly and actively seek the help of others to accomplish our mission.
Community - We build authentic relationships throughout the organization and throughout the local community. Internally, our fellowship is grounded in the mission God has given us. Externally, our fellowship is grounded in genuine love for one another.
Development – We want everyone to grow and improve, and this is especially important for the youth in our community. Therefore, we work to support each person’s growth and development, helping them achieve their God-given potential with dignity.
Kingdom - We believe God is at work and is building His kingdom through our ministry. We serve God by serving others, and we look to him for direction and for the ultimate results and impact from our efforts.
Our Story
2003
Downtown Ministries began as an initiative of Redeemer Presbyterian Church to better reach children in the community. Redeemer started one football team called the “Falcons” and a legacy began.
2006
Between 2003 and 2006, the organization quickly grew to include four football teams, a cheerleading squad, and basketball teams.
2008
Downtown Ministries was incorporated and became its own 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
2010-2012
Downtown Ministries expanded its reach beyond sports programs with Downtown Life. The organization served children through an After School Program and Cub Scouts group, as well as offering a job skills training course for adults in the community.
2013
Downtown Ministries began Downtown Academy, a private, Christ-centered school. The school opened its doors to 17 Kindergarten and 1st Graders after Downtown Ministries realized that they needed to address the educational needs among the children in the community.
2014-2016
Downtown Ministries offered other programs such as Gymnastics, Tennis, swim clinics, and summer camps.
Today
Downtown Ministries continues to build relationships in Athens through three main avenues:
Downtown Sports sports include football, cheerleading, basketball, and golf.
Downtown Academy has grown to offer Kindergarten through 5th Grade.
Downtown Life provides mentoring opportunities and other community outreach events.
God has blessed Downtown Ministries with considerable growth and impact during our first 20 years - and we are just getting started! But while the ministry has grown, the mission remains the same. Downtown Ministries will continue to communicate and demonstrate the transforming power of the gospel to Athens youth and their families by building consistent and authentic relationships that demonstrate Christ-centered hope and encouragement.