Pastor aims for unification

A Fernandina Beach pastor extends community outreach to western Nassau. 

The Rev. Jeremiah Robinson, Jr. leads New Zion Baptist Church in Fernandina Beach. He is also president of the Nassau County Christian Leadership Conference. The non-profit formed in 1981. 

“The purpose of the NCCLC is to unite and promote church and community relationships,” Robinson said. 

Organization members “encourage community involvement, socially educate young people and educate the community concerning major issues,” according to www.ncclc.org. 

Robinson would like other churches to network with more churches and unite to assist community members where needed. He has already connected with The Concerned Citizens of Hilliard. The non-profit group provides community outreach to children and seniors through community events, such as the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade in January and Thanksgiving meals for seniors in November. 

NCCLC associates with other West Side fellowships, including Second Baptist Church of Callahan, Mt. Olive Baptist Church and Mt. Horeb Baptist Church. 

Dr. Bernita Dinwiddie voluntarily serves as the group’s recording secretary. She’s also an active member of the Concerned Citizens of Hilliard. She and husband Theodore have volunteered with NCCLC for three years. 

“Several West Side churches are already working in cooperation with the NCCLC and West Side residents are already benefiting from this organization’s efforts,” Dinwiddie wrote via email Friday. “West Side students participate in the MLK Essay Contest and some have won prizes. Several West Side residents attended and enjoyed the Christian Comedy Show. We are working to increase participation in the organization across the county because we believe that its mission will benefit everyone.”

As part of the essay contest, the NCCLC provides a $1,000 scholarship for a college-bound student. The writing project is designed to encourage students to develop leadership roles within their community. 

“We have the student write a speech about how they can improve the community as far as where they live,” Robinson said. “We have that contest and college professors grade them and say which one is the best. We’re working on a plan to deliver a vocational scholarship by 2019, along with a college scholarship.” 

He expressed his appreciation for the volunteers who readily give their time. 

“The people who work alongside with us, they’re very avid about our purpose and helping others,” he said. 

For more information, call  904-422-0351.