OUR STORY
Troy Area United Ministries was organized in 1986 as a consolidation of the United Urban Ministry of Troy and the Troy Area Council of Churches, which joined together to work for “a more abundant life for the people of the area.”
The Rev. Seymour Flinn, the Rev. Don Pangburn and others had the vision to combine the social and pastoral ministries of the original organizations into one association.
The growth of TAUM includes becoming local organizer of the CROP Hunger Walk; forming a Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee to include race and community relations, scholarships for youth, forums and dialogues; meeting the dire needs of the poor in Rensselaer County by creating the Furniture Program, welcoming the Troy Damien Center and developing Computers for Kids.
Here, people of faith, justice and care, work together to build the spiritual and social well-being of people in the Troy area. Hundreds of volunteers serve in a year’s time. Our very active Board of Directors represents local congregations and the community at large. About 40 congregations, six denominations, and many individuals contribute.
In 2004, with the help of many supporters through a Capital Campaign, TAUM purchased and renovated its own building at 392 Second Street.
Through this move, TAUM strengthened its programs and became a community center. The Osgood Neighbors meet here regularly, and others use the building as well.
In celebration of TAUM’s 25th Anniversary, the Board of Directors ran a Capital Campaign to increase energy efficiency through much needed upgrades, and retired the mortgage.
In 2016, TAUM celebrated its 30th Anniversary. A legacy fund has been established to sustain TAUM’s vital programs well into the future.
On an annual basis, over 2,000 people are served by TAUM’s programs.