The Human Concerns Committee discerns the needs of people in the parish and wider community -- especially the poor -- and identifies resources to meet those needs enlisting the active cooperation of parish members.  This mandated, standing committee helps to fulfill the justice dimensions of scripture and our church tradition acknowledging that every Christian is called to service and work for justice.  Committees should work with neighboring Human Concerns Committees whenever possible.  This standing committee is accountable to the Parish Council..

Responsibilities:

1. Discern the social needs of various groups within the parish and the wider community, especially the poor.  Formulate short-term goals and long-range plans.
2. Develop services and programs to meet the needs, and/or identify resources and make referrals to already existing Catholic agencies and community groups.
3. Involve others in actively accepting the responsibility of their Baptism to help people in need and to work for justice.
4. Support those in the parish already involved in service to the poor and to those in need.
5. Develop a parish-wide consciousness of social problems in the community and in the world, from a "consistent life ethic" approach.
6. Work with other parish committees, parish staff, community groups, and neighboring parishes, and/or denominations to help solve social problems.
7. Respond to needs through these approaches:
   - Direct Service - assist the parish in performing works of charity and in relating to organizations that provide direct service to people in need.
   - Social Action and Advocacy - form partnerships with organizations that serve as advocates for the poor and that work for changes in public policy and societal structures
   - Justice Education - raise awareness among parishioners on social justice issues and Catholic social teaching.
   - Empowerment - assist the parish to work with social change organizations that encourage people to take actions themselves on the issues which affect them.
8. Determine budget priorities in the area of Human Concerns and make recommendations to the parish council through the Finance Committee.

Committee Membership includes the following:

     Ex Officio Members:
         Pastor/Parish Director
         Parish Council Liaison
         Sub-committee Chairperson(s)
         Parish Human Concerns Staff
         Parish Nurse

     Committee Leaders:
          Chairperson or co-chairs
          Secretary  

     Members:
          Parish members with an interest or knowledge in areas of direct service, justice education, social action, and parish health ministry.  Representatives of community groups or service/advocacy groups.