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Messiah University collaborates with Paxton Ministries through new partnership

Messiah University today announced a formal partnership with Paxton Ministries (Paxton), a nonprofit organization in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania that cares for adults challenged with poverty, mental illness and intellectual disabilities. This partnership will provide continuing education opportunities for Paxton employees through Messiah’s undergraduate and graduate coursework and The Bridge Center for Continuing Education as well as opportunities for Messiah University students to gain professional experience and volunteer and serve at Paxton Ministries.

Through the partnership, Messiah University students will grow in their understanding of ministry to those served by Paxton. The two organizations will also join forces on mutually beneficial opportunities for research that advances evidence-based practice in a variety of disciplines such as nutrition and dietetics, occupational therapy, human development and family sciences, social work, and Christian ministry.

“Both Paxton Ministry and Messiah University have grown since their respective foundings; however, they both remain rooted in the Brethren in Christ denomination and Christ at the center of each of these organizations,” said Dr. Robert Pepper, Messiah University’s executive director and assistant to the president for innovation and university partnerships. “This formal agreement is intentionally building on existing points of historical and contemporary connections. I am energized about the potential that this partnership has to train-up the next generation of servant-leaders from a variety of academic majors while simultaneously assisting Paxton in meeting their vision of restoring hope to the residents and those whom they serve.” 

“For years, we have worked together for the benefit of our communities—Paxton in serving adults in need with housing and support, and Messiah in educating individuals in preparation for lives of service, leadership and reconciliation in church and society,” said David Zilka, executive director, Paxton Ministries. “Together, we acknowledged that being more intentional in our collaboration would lead to increased opportunity to impact the communities we serve. We are two faith-based organizations coming together with Christ at the center to create a threefold cord: this is partnership that brings about meaningful change!”

ºÚÁÏÍø Messiah University

Founded in 1909 and located near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Messiah University is a nationally ranked, private Christian university of the liberal and applied arts and sciences that enrolls nearly 3,300 undergraduate, adult degree program and graduate students. This partnership is facilitated through The Bridge Center for Continuing Education and the Office of University Partnerships at Messiah University.

ºÚÁÏÍø Paxton Ministries

Founded in 1981, provides affordable housing and support services to adults in need with Christ-like love. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, it cares for adults challenged with poverty, mental illness, and intellectual disabilities. By working together as a family of residents, staff, volunteers, supporters, and community partners, it strives to provide housing, help, and healing in the name of Christ.