The Integration of Creation Care and Poverty Alleviation with Milmer Martinez Vergara

There is no way to separate the plight of families experiencing poverty with the realities of climate change and ecological degradation. But what does it look like to base a Christian international development organization directly at that intersection? In this episode, Brandon Stiver is joined by Milmer Martinez Vergara from Plant with Purpose to explore the interconnections of creation care, poverty alleviation, and community development and what that all has to do with following Christ. They discuss practical approaches, theological perspectives, and instead of doom, they share hope for environmental and social justice.

Conversation Notes (AI Generated)

  • The mission and history of Plant with Purpose
  • The theological basis for creation care in Christianity
  • Holistic approach to poverty, environment, and spiritual renewal
  • Practical programs like agroforestry and microfinance
  • Community engagement and local church involvement
  • Timelines for community transformation and impact measurement
  • The role of hope and faith in environmental and social change

Podcast Sponsor

Are you ready to take your impact to the next level? Then join this year’s OneAccord conference October 13th-15th in Washington, D.C.! Use Code “Global” for Discount

Register for OneAccord 2026

The MA in Global Development and Justice at Multnomah Seminary (part of Jessup University) is a fully online, accredited graduate program designed for practitioners and advocates seeking meaningful, sustainable change in today’s world.

Learn More About MAGDJ

Resources and Links from the Show

Plant With Purpose Online

Jump into more conversations around creation care, environmental justice and community development on the Earthkeepers Podcast – Link

Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

Published by Brandon Stiver

Follower of Christ. Husband to Melissa. Father to Moses, Promise, Shepherd and Bishop. Passionately pursuing progress, justice and peace in the nations. Principal at Canopy International. Podcaster at Think Global, Do Justice. Based in Tacoma, WA with roots in Southern California and Northern Tanzania.