FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) \u2014 What began as a single conversation on a bench in Fresno has grown into a nationwide movement.<\/p>\n
Two years ago, Fresno Mission CEO Mattew Dildine sat on a simple bench for 24 hours and spoke with people in the community about homelessness, addiction, food insecurity and other struggles. <\/p>\n
Those conversations sparked an idea that has now expanded to 70 cities across North America.<\/p>\n
This year, CEOs in those cities will take a seat on their own benches to engage in real conversations with their communities. <\/p>\n
Fresno Mission, in partnership with Citygate Network, which represents more than 300 rescue missions, will act as \u201cMission Control,\u201d providing tech support, guidance and communication for all 70 locations during a 24-hour event.<\/p>\n
The initiative kicked off Thursday afternoon and runs through Friday, which is also World Homeless Day.<\/p>\n
During this time, Fresno Mission will also share national videos featuring pastors, speakers, and leaders who have made an impact on homelessness and recovery across the country.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis started with one bench and a simple idea, listen first,\u201d Dildine said. \u201cNow we\u2019re seeing that same idea come alive in 70 cities. When leaders sit down to listen, communities begin to heal.\u201d<\/p>\n
You can stream ‘Conversations on a Bench’ on the Fresno Mission’s social media pages, or click HERE<\/a>. <\/p>\n Michael Simmons, CEO of the Visalia Rescue Mission, also took to the bench for 24 hours outside his facility.<\/p>\n FOX26 Reporter Alexis Govea traveled to Visalia to learn more about what Simmons hopes to achieve during the 24-hour campaign.<\/p>\n