Parker Street Ministries is committed to providing outstanding service to the members of a community that is economically depressed and spiritually shallow. One of the key components that sets this ministry apart from others is that many of the staff members live in the neighborhood where they serve. They are able to build deep relationships with their neighbors and have a clearer understanding of the needs of the community. The ministry's main focus is the children and youth of the neighborhood. Parker Street Ministries abides by the philosophy, that if the children and youth can be influenced when they are young, they will be less likely to make poor decisions later in life, and be able to break the oppressive cycles many of their families face.