This is the Culture Zone - the CZone.

Greetings I am Reverend Michael O Harrington - I am sending out this GoFundMe request to my family, friends, church colleagues, and all who want to advocate for the children and youth in 2026 and beyond.

I am a career youth minister, and I have designed (over many trials) a tested method of gathering non-religious young people (in their neighborhoods) to assemble weekly and create their own community at church facilities within walking distance of their homes. Their bond is formed through service learning and awareness training that will activate their own unique vison and mission.

Please note the ground zero neighborhood and gathering site will be in Seattle, WA beginning February 2026. This is a concept for a nationwide movement.

This (CZone) GoFundMe is needed to seed the first seven-months for resources (such as curriculum design, training, equipment, supplies, food and communications) as well as facility expenses. This is not for admin salaries, yet some college interns will be given small compensations for their work for specific tasks such as door-to-door canvassing and as camp counselors. Allies, advocates, and youth ministers will be invited into trainings so they may use the method in their own neighborhood churches.

I am 73 now and have been a part of youth ministry since I was 16 in 1968. I know the current statis among the progressive church and young people is nearly non-existent. I know my program works and will absolutely change that relationship.

I need you to help me achieve that goal ... beginning today.

A note about Michael.

Briefly... I answered my call to ministry at a Methodist church camp in 1968 that led to becoming a camp director and later to a master’s degree at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. I have spent 38 years as a professional youth and young adult minister in Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, UCC, and Episcopal congregations. My project development, program design, and training models have been duplicated and tested. I am also intimately involved with the Progressive Youth Minister's (PYM) Movement and have recently received training certification in Coaching.

I need to add that my life partner Karen Ledger helped me develop this method (CZone) when we directed a national youth outreach for the Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR USA) in 2010-12.

Many of you knew Karen and that she suffered from a rare form of cancer and that from 2016-2024 I was her caregiver. Karen courageously went through several clinical trials, and I was there every step of the way. After she died, through deep reflection I rededicated myself to our vision. My saying is, "Be brave like Karen."

Thank you for your consideration.

Blessings

Michael