Simplifying Who We Are
After 30 years, we’re retiring the Urban Concern brand
For years, we have co-branded our ministry as “Urban Concern & Harambee Christian School”. Urban Concern was formed as a 501(c)(3) in 1991. Harambee Christian School was founded in 1998 as a program of Urban Concern.
With input from and approval by the board of directors and eldership of Dwell Community Church, our leadership team has now decided to shift our primary name and brand to Harambee Christian School. Though we will retain the legal name of Urban Concern, moving forward we will represent our ministry solely under the Harambee banner.
There are a few important reasons for this change.
First, Urban Concern no longer operates any programs outside of Harambee Christian School and what takes place under the Harambee umbrella. The After School Program, mentoring and other programs are directly associated with the school. The youth bible studies from elementary through high school are now integrated with Student Ministries at Dwell.
Second, many of our students, families, volunteers and donors interact only with the Harambee name. Many are even confused about the name Urban Concern. Simplifying our name to Harambee Christian School will promote clarity both internally and externally.
Third, the word “urban” in today’s usage can be confusing. Likewise, the name “Urban Concern” has the potential to undermine a sense of togetherness and community, since it implies an “us” that are concerned for “them”. Even though the original intent of the name was hopeful and positive, it isn’t always perceived as such in today’s climate.
Fourth, identifying solely as Harambee Christian School will allow us to maintain consistency with our sister school, Akili Christian High School, as ministries under the Dwell umbrella.

Celebrating Our History One thing we are sensitive to in making this change is the importance that the name Urban Concern holds for many who prayed and labored over many years to establish and grow the ministry. Those of us who serve and lead in the ministry now have great respect and appreciation for those who came before us. We don’t want the legacy and history of the ministry to be downplayed or discarded. So we are committed to sharing the story of Urban Concern in years to come, as we embark towards this new season of ministry.