Manteca Interfaith Community Appeal is inviting the South County community to attend “An Evening of Respect,” on Friday, July 26, from 7 to 8 p.m.

The fourth annual event is being hosted by Transformed Through Hope Ministries, led by Pastors Wayne and Cynthia Jackson at 201 W. Alameda Street in Manteca.  

The theme for the evening is “Developing Empathy for Others.” It will begin with a short video presentation from the Cleveland Medical Clinic. This unique video spends a few minutes showing the importance of empathy to good patient care, and is suitable for all audiences.  As many in our community struggle with various life challenges, our special event is designed to lend words of encouragement and show compassion to our neighbors. 

The video will be followed by several short presentations about gaining empathy. Guest speakers include Anthone Jackson, License Marriage Family Therapist, who will address challenges our youth face, and Mrs. Kim Whitecotton, who will give insight into the life of someone with Hunter’s Syndrome — otherwise known as MPS. The Reverend Jason Thornton will conclude the evening by helping those in attendace understand the difficulties of living with Alzheimer’s. 

Manteca Interfaith Community Appeal is a local group whose Mission & Vision statement explains that MICA, “endeavors to bring together people of various faiths, beliefs, and traditions around common goals of service, education, and peace for all people.” They achieve this by “acting with respect, appreciating diversity, and responding in solidarity to those most in need, while promoting these values in the community from generation to generation, one activity at a time.”

All are welcome, as public support is vital to this effort of bringing good-hearted people together.  Light refreshments will follow the program.