What can I do?

We pulled on to to our drop in location at 6:00 and was greeted by one of the kids who loves us being there to spend time with them. She said, "I was wondering when you would get here, I have been waiting for five hours." The reality is she got off school at 3:00 so it had been just three hours, but the point was she was waiting for us. It gave her something to hope for.


Friday night was incredible once again as we had about 30 kids/teens out. This happened to be the same night as the  local exhibition was giving reduced rates for kids, so we were missing quite a few regulars. At one point Drew and Scottie grabbed a football, formed up two teams and played a game with the teen boys until dusk. One of the boys said that he was glad he never went to the exhibition because this was much more fun. I agree we have fun and the cost for people to come to what we do is free. It is also relational!

The reality for us is these types of nights can't happen unless we have volunteers. I am so blessed to have so many young adults helping us out. They are as passionate about these kids and families as our staff is. They sacrifice their time to make a difference. The kids are also smart enough to tell the difference between someone who really cares and someone going through the motions of caring. Our staff and volunteers really care.


People are wondering what they could possibly do to help out and get involved. There are a few things but one of the simplest is to just be there. Having a consistent presence in kids and teens lives goes a long way. If you can push a swing, flip a hotdog over on a grill, listen, pour a kid a cup of juice, kick a ball, listen, pick up trash, pray, listen, did I mention listening. One little girl talked to Karla and told her how her day went. Then she asked her when she was coming back so she could tell her how that day went.

Get involved, it will change your life. What are you waiting for? You could have a huge impact on someones life today.