WE LEAD

Willful Empowerment - Learning Equipping Accomplishing Developing

Welcome to UCM

At UCM, we've crafted a unique approach where faith, community, and empowerment intersect to inspire enduring change. For over 54 years, we've been dedicated to strengthening our community by fostering the spiritual growth, leadership skills, and civic responsibility of our youth. Through a blend of love, education, and hands-on learning, we empower young leaders to break the cycle of violence and make a profound, positive impact on their communities.

Happy New Year!


A Message from Urban Christian Ministries: Embracing a New Year of Growth and Leadership

Dear UCM Family and Community,


As we step into 2025, we are filled with excitement and gratitude for the incredible journey that lies ahead. Reflecting on the blessings of 2024, we are proud of the strides we made in empowering youth and strengthening our community. Now, with the dawn of the new year, we are setting our sights on even greater accomplishments.


2025 will be a year of program launches that will usher Urban Christian Ministries into a new phase for a new generation of youth leadership. Our commitment to equipping the next generation of leaders is stronger than ever, and we are thrilled to introduce new initiatives and partnerships that will shape the future of our youth. This year, we will be collaborating with organizations focused on Youth Peer Advocacy, STEM education, Breaking Barriers, Open Buffalo, and Gun Violence Prevention—all with the goal of advancing young people into impactful leadership roles within our community.


One of the key areas of focus for 2025 is expanding our

We Lead program. We are excited to announce that in the first quarter of the year, we will be incorporating mentorship opportunities within our church community. This expansion will provide invaluable guidance and support for young leaders as they grow in their faith, leadership skills, and commitment to making a positive difference.


We believe that youth are the heartbeat of our future, and through these partnerships and initiatives, we are positioning them to lead with strength, purpose, and passion. As we build on the success of 2024, we are eager to witness the transformation that will come through the leadership and empowerment of our young people.


Together, with your continued support, 2025 will be a year of bold steps toward a brighter future. Let us stand united as we guide our youth into a new era of leadership and community impact.


Blessings and Prosperity to you all in this New Year!


In His Service,

Urban Christian Ministries Team

Rev Denise Walden-Glenn

From the Executive Desk…

For 54 years, Urban Christian Ministries (UCM) has been a beacon of hope, empowerment, and transformation, dedicated to equipping youth and supporting families throughout Western New York and beyond. Our legacy—from the cherished Budget Shop to the impactful summer camp experiences—has touched countless lives, sowing seeds of faith, resilience, and purpose in our community.

In addition to our local efforts, UCM has a rich history of mission work, extending our ministry to communities in need both near and far. Through mission trips and outreach, we have brought the love of Christ to underserved areas, providing support, encouragement, and tangible assistance. This work has enriched the lives of those we serve and deepened the faith of our youth, who have seen firsthand the power of compassion and service. As we look to the future, we are eager to continue and expand our mission work, reaching new communities and empowering our youth to live out their faith in impactful, life-changing ways.

As we look ahead, the future shines brightly. UCM is excited to re-align with our founding purpose and to renew our commitment to our mission. While change often brings challenges, we believe in the good work that God is doing in and through us as we return to our roots. Though we have evolved and no longer host a food pantry or a front porch ministry, UCM remains deeply rooted in our call to empower youth, helping them discover their God-given purpose and equipping them to lead with integrity, compassion, and courage.

We hold close to the words of Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This promise guides us as we build programs that not only serve the immediate needs of today but also lay a foundation of hope and strength for generations to come.

It is essential that we stay connected to our community, attuned to its needs, and responsive to its challenges. We are deeply grateful for each of you—our partners, supporters, and participants—who have journeyed with us, shaped our ministry, and continue to walk alongside us. With your support, we are excited to serve, creating programs that bring lasting, transformative change.

Thank you for being part of the UCM family. Together, we will continue to be the light and love of Christ in our community and beyond, shaping tomorrow's leaders and embracing our divine purpose.

In His Service

Rev. Denise Walden-Glenn

Executive Servant Leader, Urban Christian Ministries

Our Partners


Our partnership is grounded in the belief that unity and support are the most essential and foundational elements in empowering our youth. By working together, we create a strong, supportive community where young people can thrive, overcome challenges, and realize their full potential. Our collective commitment to nurturing and guiding them lays the foundation for a brighter future, and we are dedicated to standing together to ensure every young person has the opportunities and resources they need to succeed.

Mt Ararat Temple Of Prayer
Open Buffalo
The Community Health Center of Buffalo
Randall Church
Say Yes Buffalo
Habitat For Humanity
Real Talk Bridges
Outpour Ministries
The John R Oishei Foundation
Buffalo Futures
Breaking Barriers of Buffalo NY
Cake Crazy Bakery
United Way Of Buffalo

Urban Christian Ministries

Business Email

Business Address

967 Jefferson Avenue Buffalo NY 14204

Business Number

716-882-9472