[Podcast] Episode 256: Asset-Based Community Development with Meghan Killingsworth

What if the key to transforming your city wasn’t fixing what’s broken—but uncovering what’s already good? In this compelling episode of the AVAIL podcast, Meghan Killingsworth—co-pastor of First United Methodist Church of Sanford—introduces us to the power of asset-based community development (ABCD). Rooted in the belief that God declared creation “very good,” Meghan unpacks why real ministry doesn’t start with people’s deficits—it starts with their dignity. Discover how ABCD reshapes outreach, discipleship, and justice by partnering with people, not working for them. This episode will challenge your assumptions and expand your vision of what Kingdom work can truly look like.

00:00 Introduction with Megan Killingsworth

2:56 The ABCD ministry vs. needs-based approach

7:53 Churches that embrace the ABCD

13:09 Common roadblocks in transition to ABCD model and overcoming them

19:04 Unpacking liberation theology

23:14 Overlap between ABCD and liberation theology

27:02 Dealing with tension between quick metrics and slow community transformation

32:49 How to connect with Meghan and her church

34:13 AVAIL Journal

34:42 Parting thoughts