On Sunday, May 17, 2026, Life Empowerment International (LEI), in partnership with TWN, helped organize a meaningful Community Engagement Day in Petersburg, Virginia. The initiative was dedicated to the values of global peace, sustainability, community care, and local empowerment.
The event was held at the First Baptist Church parking lot in Petersburg from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm It brought together local residents, volunteers, faith-based partners, public service representatives, community leaders, and local businesses for a shared day of service.
The gathering opened with prayer and words of encouragement from Dr. Milenda Becks, Founder and CEO of LEI, and Glenda Rose, Coordinator of Backdoor Ministry. Their messages reminded participants that strong communities are built through compassion, service, unity, and practical support for those who need it most.
This was the first event of its kind organized through this partnership, and it received a strong response from the community. More than 150 individuals participated and received food, clothing, resource information, and guidance on local support services available in Petersburg. For many families and individuals, the day provided not only immediate assistance, but also a sense of connection, dignity, and encouragement.
LEI was proud to mobilize 15 volunteers who helped welcome participants, organize supplies, support distribution, guide attendees, and assist partner organizations throughout the day. Their service reflected LEI’s commitment to community-based action and hands-on support.
The event was made possible through the support of several committed partners and sponsors, including the Petersburg Police Department, I Am the Church, Backdoor Feeding Ministry of First Baptist Church, KUSH Group LLC, and Willtuner & Associates LLC. The Backdoor Feeding Ministry provided lunch for participants, while other partners contributed volunteers, resources, coordination, and outreach support.
LEI also extends special appreciation to Glenda Rose and the Backdoor Ministry team, Thomas Carter, former Petersburg police officer, and his friends, Reginald Fergosen of the Petersburg Police Department, and Pastor Robert Byrd Dawson of First Baptist Church for their important roles in planning and supporting the event. Their leadership, relationships, and commitment helped make the day welcoming, organized, and impactful.
For LEI, this Community Engagement Day was more than a one-time activity. It was an important step in building long-term partnerships for community empowerment, safe neighborhoods, peacebuilding, and sustainable local support in Petersburg.
Dr. Milenda Becks, Founder and CEO of LEI, shared that LEI plans to continue organizing similar community engagement activities on a regular basis. These efforts are part of LEI’s long-term vision to work with community stakeholders, government departments, faith leaders, local businesses, and volunteers to serve people in need and strengthen neighborhoods across Petersburg.
Through this initiative, LEI and TWN demonstrated what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose. A simple day of service became a space for hope, connection, and collective responsibility. It showed that peace and sustainability begin at the community level, through practical care, trusted partnerships, and a commitment to serving one another.