Neighborhood Chaplains are a dedicated group of volunteers. They serve their neighbors who are affected by crime and other traumatic incidents. They also minister to the families, friends, other neighbors and coworkers of victims. As first responders trained in crisis care, the neighborhood chaplain's role is distinct from that of clinical counselors and congregational clergy. In addition to providing a comforting presence during the worst times of peoples' lives, the chaplains' role may also include stress debriefing and defusing, provision of information and resources, arrangement for emergency food, clothing, transportation and/or shelter, and referral to a broad network of public and private agencies. The NC coordinates with several complementary services throughout the community, such as Salvation Army, American Red Cross and churches. They follow up to check on victims' welfare and provide additional emotional support, guidance or other assistance as may be appropriate.

Those with a genuine calling to the Neighborhood Chaplaincy Corps demonstrate a number of personal, intellectual and practical characteristics. Their deep faith, hope and love enable them to have compassion for every human being. They exhibit profound peace and humility arising from a mature spirituality. They have the discipline to follow detailed protocols, submit to authority, be cheerfully flexible under frequently and rapidly changing circumstances, and follow through on their commitments. They display common sense and good judgment. They can organize neighborhood prayer vigils for victims and conduct group meetings, including Bible study, as needed. They understand the despairing impact that terminal disease, terrorism threats, domestic conflicts and financial reversals have on entire families, especially the children. They make themselves available as agents of hope to people of all faiths. They equip themselves by completing the four ICA core courses. They submit to background screening. They maintain membership in a national chaplains organization and complete the certification process through ICA. Most of all, they exemplify the Lord’s command to "love thy neighbor."

For more information about the ICA Neighborhood Chaplaincy Corps contact:

Dr. L. W. "Buddy" Nichols
423-893-8969
buddynichols@hotmail.com

Or Write:

ICA
P. O. Box 681117
Charlotte, NC 28216