Two Cities Church

Neighborhood 360
Assessment

WELCOME TO YOUR
NEIGHBORHOOD 360 ASSESSMENT
Introduction
Neighborhood Snapshot
History of Industry Hill
History of Two Cities
Demographics
Neighborhood Observations
Neighborhood Surveys
Community and Cultural Tensions
Community Wants, Needs, and Dreams
Church Assets
Takeaways
Reflective Questions
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INTRODUCTION
Two Cities Church is located in the
Industry Hill community of Winston-
Salem, North Carolina – a city center
in a rapidly growing community. This
neighborhood is bordered by Ivy
Avenue, Patterson Avenue, North
Liberty Street, and Martin Luther King
Jr. Drive. Industry Hill connects
multiple communities that look very
different: East Winston and North of
Downtown are historically African
American neighborhoods with high
levels of poverty and ongoing battles
with gentrification. Downtown, a
previous industrial center, is
undergoing much modernization and
revitalization due in major part to the
medical industry.
Now housed within these contrasting
neighborhood dynamics, Two Cities
Church has the potential to leverage
its assets for the benefit of the
surrounding communities, the city as
a whole, and most importantly, for the
glory of God. To build meaningful
relationships and intimately
encounter the needs of the
community, one must exist within the
community. Two Cities Church now
exists within the Industry Hill
community and is poised to be an
agent of Kingdom-centered change at
the heart of the city we call home.
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NEIGHBORHOOD SNAPSHOT
The community surrounding Two Cities Church
is home to several distinct neighborhoods. We
are in the heart of the rapid growth of
Downtown in industry, education, food, and
recreation. Also within walking distance are
communities in East Winston and North
Winston with many pockets of poverty. Our
immediate Downtown community of Industry
Hill has one of the highest concentrations of
homelessness due to surrounding shelters and
other homeless-serving organizations. It is also
a place of city expansion with new apartments,
schools, and a growing Downtown culture.
Winston-Salem as a whole is and has been a
city that has seen a lot of change since its
founding in 1936 but has consistently been a
home for people who desire community during
trying times.
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HISTORY OF INDUSTRY HILL
The Downtown/Industry Hill
neighborhood was previously an
industrial center housing companies
such as Hanesbrands and RJR Tobacco.
With the 2008 market crash, major
companies, like Hanes and RJR, were
bought out which led to significant job
loss. This also propelled the city to
prioritize neighborhood revitalization.
These revitalization efforts caused
much of the poverty within the city to
become more condensed than in any
other major city in North Carolina. This
concentrated poverty stands in contrast
to the growing Downtown area that has
become the center of innovation and
culture for Winston, including a medical
hub and growing arts district.
Downtown Winston-Salem will continue
to develop the medical and technology
industries throughout the city as well as
reinvent the city’s Downtown culture
into one full of unique culinary choices,
lively nightlife, and business/medical
opportunities. Contrastingly,
gentrification due to Downtown
revitalization persists as does the clear
distinction between socio-economic
statuses caused by the increasing
interaction between urban revitalization
and urban poverty.
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HISTORY OF TWO CITIES
The story of Two Cities Church begins at the Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. The
Summit Church, led by Pastor J.D. Greear, had a vision to plant 1,000 churches across the world over the
next 40 years. Two Cities was birthed out of that vision, and Pastor Kyle Mercer was compelled to plant a
new church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The church was planted with Executive Pastor David
Vogel, Kyle’s best friend of 16 years. Together they recruited 30 other individuals who moved their lives
to Winston-Salem in May 2016 for the sake of the Gospel and were joined by 70 more people to form
the launch team. On September 18, 2016, Two Cities launched its first public gathering.
Since then, Two Cities Church has flourished with Community Groups and leaders multiplying as well as
hundreds of people getting plugged into the community to serve. In November 2018, Two Cities moved
into two renovated warehouse buildings on Northwest Boulevard. Less than two years later we were
named the 26th fastest growing church in America by Outreach Magazine. With this enormous growth
came a need for more space. In December 2023, Two Cities opened a new building on North Patterson
Avenue. The church is now housed in a location central to the Winston-Salem community putting Two
Cities at the heart of the city’s need. With this unique placement also comes the powerful opportunity
for us to wrap our arms around the community and commit to being the hands and feet of God in the
neighborhood.
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DEMOGRAPHICS
Two Cities Church lies on the border of Winston-Salem census tracts 1 and 2. To get a better picture of the neighborhoods
surrounding the church, demographic information has been pulled from 2021 data for census tracts 1 through 7.
As of 2021, 17,954 people resided in the neighborhoods surrounding Two Cities Church’s current
location making up roughly 7.17% of Winston-Salem’s population.
The age breakdown of the residents in the communities corresponds to city data with the majority of
residents being younger adults between 25 and 44 (30.5%) or children under 19 (27.6%). This aligns with
family data which shows that half of families in the area have children under the age of 18.
Racial diversity is one area in which Industry Hill and surrounding neighborhoods greatly differ from citywide
data. In Industry Hill and surrounding areas, 67% of residents are Black and 15.3% are White while,
city-wide, 29.5% of residents are Black and 44.7% are White. The percentage of residents identifying as
Asian, Hispanic/Latino, two or more races, and other races is consistent across city and neighborhood
data.
Poverty levels in the neighborhoods surrounding Two Cities Church are also significantly higher than city
averages. 23.79% of residents in these neighborhoods live below the poverty level
compared to only 10.8% of residents in Winston-Salem overall. The mean income for this subset of
neighborhoods is $47,787 which is $34,000 lower than the city mean income of $82,231.
Whereas certain demographics look familiar compared to other areas in our city, we as a church must
recognize the unique qualities of our neighborhood at a base level as we look to serve our neighbors well.
In summary, Two Cities is located in a racially and socio-economically diverse area with a high percentage
of young people.
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NEIGHBORHOOD OBSERVATIONS
A number of Two Cities members observed various parts of the neighborhood around Two Cities
Church to examine the physical spaces and people nearby.
BUSINESS - Many things in the area attract people to the neighborhood (breweries,
restaurants, etc.). A number of small businesses are located in the vicinity as well as
community nonprofits. A large biomedical community has also developed Downtown in the
Innovation Quarter.
BUILDINGS - Newer apartments have been built Downtown compared to lower-income
housing North and East of Downtown. There are several vacant buildings and a significant
amount of fencing.
TRAVEL - Foot traffic is sparse in several locations; however, there was notable movement
Downtown near the bus station and Industry Hill with varying diversity.
HOMELESSNESS - Homelessness is evident throughout the area.
C H U R C H E S A N D S P I R I T U A L L I F E
There is an active spiritual awareness in the
communities surrounding Two Cities Church.
The number of churches and faith-based
organizations displays that many people are
involved with or familiar with church and spiritual
topics. At least 26 churches or other religious
institutions reside within the neighborhood
including a variety of Christian denominations
and a mosque.
After talking with many people in the area, there
was an overall positive response to a “new”
church moving into the neighborhood. Most
people were open to a church in the community
and were hoping that some partnerships could be
built in order to make a positive difference in the
city. People also wondered if a church could help
bring people together and build community.
In addition to these positive associations, most
people seemed to have presuppositions regarding
spirituality based on their own experiences.
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NEIGHBORHOOD SURVEYS
Residents of neighborhoods around Two Cities Church were surveyed about
their opinions of their neighborhood. Respondents shared some common
answers listed below.
What do you like best about this community? What makes this a good place
to live?
LOW COST OF LIVING - Many residents appreciate the affordability of
our community, allowing them to manage their expenses effectively and
invest in their families' futures without financial strain.
NEIGHBORS LOOKING OUT FOR EACH OTHER - The sense of
camaraderie and support among neighbors is highly valued, as it creates a
tight-knit community where people can rely on each other for assistance,
fostering a strong sense of security and belonging.
QUIET - The peaceful atmosphere and minimal noise pollution contribute
to a serene environment that residents cherish, offering a respite from
the hustle and bustle of city life and allowing for moments of tranquility
and relaxation.
COMMUNITY GROWTH - Residents appreciate the opportunities for
personal and collective advancement within our community, as it fosters
a spirit of collaboration, innovation, and progress, making it an ideal place
to pursue their goals and aspirations while contributing to the collective
welfare.
What are one or two changes that could make life better for this community?
FEELING SAFER - Implementing community policing initiatives and
neighborhood watch programs can enhance residents' sense of safety by
fostering greater vigilance and collaboration among neighbors, leading to
a more secure environment for all.
DECREASE IN HOMELESSNESS AND DRUG ACTIVITY - Addressing
homelessness and drug activity through comprehensive support services,
affordable housing initiatives, and rehabilitation programs can
significantly improve the overall quality of life in the community by
reducing social disorder and improving public health outcomes.
MORE PLACES FOR KIDS/YOUTH TO GO AND MORE ACTIVITES FOR
THEM IN COMMUNAL SPACES - Investing in the development of
recreational facilities, after-school programs, and youth outreach
initiatives can provide young people with safe and engaging opportunities
for growth and socialization, enriching their lives and strengthening the
fabric of the community.
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NEIGHBORHOOD SURVEYS
Do you have any ideas about how a caring church could make a difference in the neighborhood?
BUILD COMMUNITY AND ACTIVITY FOR KIDS AND YOUTH: A caring church could help establish
youth groups, sports teams, and educational programs to provide constructive outlets and
mentorship for young people, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within the community.
OPPORTUNITES: Organize regular youth events like movie nights, game nights, or sports
tournaments; offer tutoring or homework help sessions; collaborate with local schools for joint
activities or workshops.
REACH OUT AND BRING THE COMMUNITY TOGETHER/BE A PART OF THE COMMUNITY - The
church could help with regular community events such as picnics, potlucks, and workshops, creating
opportunities for neighbors to connect, share resources, and build relationships in a welcoming
environment.
OPPORTUNITES: Organize neighborhood cleanup days; host a community garden or farmers'
market; offer free classes or workshops on topics of interest to the community.
TALK TO THE COMMUNITY PERSONALLY AND EXTEND PERSONAL INVITATIONS - Members of
the church could engage in door-to-door outreach, personally inviting neighbors to attend services,
events, or support programs, demonstrating genuine care and interest in their well-being.
OPPORTUNITES: Conduct neighborhood surveys to assess community needs and interests;
host open houses or "meet the pastor" events; organize volunteer teams to visit elderly or
isolated community members.
HELP THE HOMELESS - The church could establish outreach programs providing essential
resources such as food, clothing, and shelter for homeless individuals, as well as offering support
services and opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
OPPORTUNITIES: Continue to partner with local shelters or social service agencies; organize
donation drives for essential items; offer job training, workplace readiness, or resume workshops
for homeless individuals seeking employment.
PARTNER WITH OTHERS: The church can continue to collaborate with other community
organizations, businesses, and government agencies to maximize resources and address complex
social issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare.
OPPORTUNITES: Form partnerships with local nonprofits, schools, or healthcare providers;
participate in community coalitions or task forces; advocate for policy changes to address
systemic issues affecting the community.
Across all community surveys, there were five major themes:
1. ISOLATION - People feel isolated and are hungry for community. At the same time, they do not know
where to start. Sometimes people wonder if the community they are looking for exists.
2.GROWTH - People feel the growth and expansion of our city, especially Downtown.
3.SAFETY - People are concerned about safety in certain areas of their neighborhoods.
4.NEED - People notice the many physical and emotional needs of individuals in the area.
5.ENGAGEMENT - People desire to see community engagement.
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COMMUNITY AND CULTURAL TENSIONS
Many of the themes in the neighborhood surveys were reflected in other interactions with
neighborhood residents as tensions they feel in the community.
ISOLATION - Lack of community
SAFETY - Addiction, violence, mental health challenges
GENTRIFICATION - Downtown expansion, rising costs, blending of neighborhoods
DIVISION - Socio-economic and racial divides that have been long-time tensions in Winston-
Salem
HOMELESSNESS/POVERTY - Rising cost of living, addiction, and mental health
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COMMUNITY WANTS, NEEDS, AND DREAMS
W H A T O U R C O M M U N I T Y W A N T S
COMMUNITY - Residents desire a sense of belonging and connection within their neighborhood, where
people know and support each other like an extended family.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could work with other organizations for regular community
gatherings, such as block parties or neighborhood picnics, to facilitate interactions and strengthen
bonds among residents.
SUPPORT FOR PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND SPIRITUAL NEEDS - Community members seek holistic
support systems that address their physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual growth.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could work with other organizations and establish resources in
the community to create a wellness center, offering a range of services, including counseling, health
screenings, exercise classes, and spiritual guidance sessions.
CONSISTENT RELATIONSHIPS - Residents value stable and meaningful relationships characterized by
trust, respect, and mutual support.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could initiate or partner in a community mentorship program
matching volunteers with individuals seeking guidance and companionship, fostering lasting
relationships and personal growth.
SAFETY AND PEACE - Community members prioritize living in a safe and peaceful environment where
they feel secure and protected.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to
implement neighborhood watch programs, safety workshops, and conflict resolution training,
empowering residents to actively contribute to the security of their community.
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COMMUNITY WANTS, NEEDS, AND DREAMS
W H A T O U R C O M M U N I T Y N E E D S
HEALTHY ACTIVITY AND COMMUNITY FOR YOUTH - There is a need for constructive and
engaging activities that promote the physical, social, and emotional development of young people.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could help with or support a youth center equipped with
recreational facilities, educational resources, and mentorship programs, offering a safe and
supportive environment for youth to thrive and grow.
ADDICTION AND LIFE-SKILLS HELP - Many community members require assistance in
overcoming addiction and acquiring essential life skills to lead fulfilling and independent lives.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could continue to connect with addiction recovery support
groups, vocational training programs, and financial literacy workshops, empowering individuals to
break free from destructive cycles and build a brighter future.
DECREASE IN VIOLENT ACTIVITY, INCLUDING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE - There is a pressing need
to address and reduce instances of violence, including domestic abuse, within the community.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could continue to partner with local advocacy
organizations, shelters, and law enforcement agencies to offer counseling services, legal
assistance, and safe havens for victims of domestic violence, as well as educational programs
promoting healthy relationships and conflict resolution skills.
HELP WITH HOUSING, EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, AND ECONOMIC MOBILITY - Community
members require access to essential resources and opportunities for upward mobility.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could continue building connections to resource centers
providing information and referrals for housing assistance, educational scholarships, healthcare
services, and job training programs while advocating for policies that promote social and
economic growth within the community.
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COMMUNITY WANTS, NEEDS, AND DREAMS
W H A T O U R C O M M U N I T Y D R E A M S
CHURCHES COMING TOGETHER - Residents envision a collaborative and unified effort among
churches to address common challenges and opportunities within the community.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could initiate dialogue and collaboration with other churches,
organizing joint community service projects and outreach initiatives to foster unity and solidarity
among churches with a gospel vision.
COMMUNITY COMING TOGETHER - There is a collective aspiration for increased cohesion and
cooperation among residents to build a stronger and more inclusive community.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could facilitate or participate in community forums, leadership
training workshops, and cultural exchange events, encouraging dialogue, understanding, and
collaboration among neighbors from different backgrounds and perspectives.
INTEGRATION OF WINSTON-SALEM UNIFICATION WITHIN NEIGHORHOODS ON RACIAL, AGE,
AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC LEVELS - Residents dream of a more integrated and inclusive community
where diversity is celebrated and everyone has equal opportunities for success.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could be part of initiatives promoting community such as
multicultural festivals, intergenerational mentorship programs, and economic development projects
that prioritize marginalized communities, fostering a more communal neighborhood.
PREVENTATIVE CARE FOR LONG-TERM TRANSFORMATION (SOCIAL, PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL,
RELATIONAL, ETC.) - There is a shared vision for comprehensive and proactive strategies that address
the root causes of social issues and promote holistic well-being.
PRACTICAL SOLUTION - The church could help implement or support holistic wellness programs
focusing on preventive care, including mental health awareness campaigns, nutrition and fitness
classes, parenting workshops, and conflict resolution training, empowering individuals and families
to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives and fostering long-term transformation within the community.

CHURCH ASSETS
B A S I C A S S E T S
PHYSICAL ASSETS - Two Cities Church boasts a new building space with a 1300 seating capacity,
along with two additional spaces on Northwest Blvd dedicated to youth ministry.
INDIVIDUAL ASSETS - With around 3,000 attendees, 1318 members, 8 full-time pastors, 23 full-time
staff, 5 part-time staff, 11 residents, and 2 interns, as well as a significant presence of medical
professionals and medical students, the church possesses a rich reservoir of human resources and
expertise.
MINISTRY GROUPS ASSETS - The church boasts a diverse array of ministry groups, including over
100 Community Groups, Kids Ministry, Youth Ministry, DNA Groups, Prayer Team, First Impressions
Team, Weekender Team, Mercy Team, Worship Arts Team, Production Team, Photography Team, and
Adoption & Foster Care Team.
INSTITUTIONAL ASSETS - Supported by resources from The Summit Church, The Southern Baptist
Convention, The Summit Collaborative, The Triad Church Network, and Christ Together Network, Two
Cities Church benefits from institutional backing and collaboration within broader religious networks.
ECONOMIC ASSETS - With monthly consistent giving from church members, an annual budget, and
the impactful Annual Hold the Rope offering, the church demonstrates financial stability and
generosity in its mission endeavors.
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CHURCH ASSETS
H I D D E N A S S E T S
SIGNS OF GRACE - Noteworthy signs of grace include the almost 1-million-dollar Hold the Rope
End of Year Offering in 2023, budget allocation for opening new buildings, growth in the residency
program, increased neighborhood involvement with over 30 organizations, and vibrant engagement
with church events such as baptisms and Weekender attendance.
TAKEN FOR GRANTED GIFTS - These include influence within the city, consistent giving and
attendance, trust in leadership, and a strong serving community ethos.
PERCEIVED GIFTS BY OTHERS - Outsiders would likely recognize the church as a strong serving
community with a culture of consistent giving, known for its Weekender events facilitating church
integration and engagement, and admired for its gospel-centered, relational approach and leadership
pipeline strategy.
UNDERUTILIZED STRENGTHS - The untapped potential in utilizing people and space beyond
Sunday worship for community-building activities.
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CHURCH ASSETS
A S S E T S D I S G U I S E D A S N E E D S
CRISIS-GENERATED ASSETS - Crisis situations have catalyzed further development in areas like
the Care Ministry, while challenges like increased sin and suffering within the church due to its size
and age have prompted a deeper reliance on Community Group-based care.
GIFTS PERCEIVED AS NEEDS - Rapid growth in attendance and Weekender events, while
beneficial, occasionally strain volunteer resources, highlighting the need for consistent volunteer
engagement.
ASSET FOCUS IN ADDRESSING NEEDS - The church prioritizes individual spiritual growth and
community engagement as the primary focus in addressing specific needs.
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TAKEAWAYS
W H A T W E W A N T O U R P A S T O R S T O K N O W
People are looking to see what we do as a church of influence. God has placed us in the heart of our
city where there is density and diversity. We must focus on making and mobilizing disciples where
God has us.
There is a large socio-economic difference between the different communities surrounding us. We
must handle this with care as we minister to the various groups of people. We must be willing to
build relationships with different types of people with this mission of making and mobilizing
disciples in mind.
We need to continue to build strong relationships with organizations and consider how we can
support or add to what’s being done to meet needs.
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TAKEAWAYS
W H A T W E W A N T O U R C H U R C H M E M B E R S T O K N O W
While there is a ministry we must do in the church, there is a mission God has called us to do outside
of our church in our personal communities and in our community immediately surrounding the
church.
We are needy and needed. Serve out of your brokenness and see each relationship as a God-given
opportunity to love someone made in God’s image.
Ask God how you can best serve, love, and build relationships with the people within the strategic
place He has placed our church instead of waiting for the church to simply tell you what to do.
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TAKEAWAYS
W H A T W E W A N T O U R
C O M M U N I T Y T O K N O W
We are here on purpose
and here to stay. We
want to be good
neighbors and care for
the individual as well as
our community as a
whole. We want to be
joining in what God is
already doing in our
community.
We are a gospel people
devoted to making and
mobilizing disciples in an
environment of prayer
and worship. Salvation is
found in Christ alone
and is given to all who
place their trust solely in
Him.
A person is not simply a
statistic, but an
individual made in the
image of God no matter
their age, stage of life,
financial status, or past
decisions. God is near.
Patience is requested as
we continue to grow and
learn in ministry,
mission, and mercy as a
church.
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REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS
1. What, if anything, has changed in your understanding of the
community around Two Cities?
2. What new opportunities do you see for Two Cities to love and
connect with our community as a result of this study?
3. How do you imagine this study will change or impact our
church?
4. How might your community group use the insights in this
study to engage and connect with the community around you?
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