“A Positive Transformation”

March 18th, 2008: Metanoia translates from the Greek for, “positive transformation.” The premise behind the Metanoia Community Development Corporation is that focusing on the assets of a community will make it shine. Reverend Bill Stanfield brought his energy to our meeting to share information about Metanoia, which is obviously his passion. The Reverend’s belief is that tending to the flaws of a typically “needy” community is the wrong approach. The supporters of Metanoia recognize the positives, and not the negatives, of their host community of Chicora/Cherokee in North Charleston.

Indeed, Metanoia’s approach seems to be working. The leaders focus their efforts on the positive energy of the youth, and have involved parents and residents. There is solid reasoning behind Metanoia’s and Reverend Stanfield’s actions, though they are unconventional to many other “charitable” organizations. In addition to his natural belief in the goodness of people, Reverend Stanfield relies on a theory spurred on by two men from Northwestern. Their study helped to point out that communities with the most “needs” actually benefit from being recognized for their strengths and not their weaknesses. Metanoia is completely dedicated towards recognizing the positive. The group has a strong religious influence and flavor. Children are taught to be “youth leaders” and chant a youth affirmation when they meet.

Metanoia was envisioned in 2002 started by the Southern Baptist Foundation. Today it thrives with help from the gifts and support of individuals and local government. Elizabeth Proutt, one of the supporters of Metanoia, and a Rotarian, introduced our guest, Reverend Bill Stanfield. We were also pleased to host staff members of Metanoia, Anthony Joyner, AJ Davis, and board member Gail Blair who supported and surprised Reverend Stanfield by coming to the meeting.

Reported by Jackie Grau, Keyway Committee