Generosity Campaign - Stories - Part 1
Collision
Since starting with Collision five months ago I have been a part of several high school students intentionally taking the next steps in their faith and leadership. Nate, a junior, has wrestled through strategy and curriculum shifts as he continues to actively pursue faith conversations with his football, power lifting, and baseball teammates. Isaiah, a sophomore and theater enthusiast, has been encouraged in not having to match the athletic and extroverted standard of his peers but rather to serve in the settings and through the gifts God has specifically given him. Tenley, a freshman, joined our student leadership team three months ago and has enthusiastically stepped into sharing each new thing she learns with her peers, a middle school group of her sister’s friends, and her church. Abby, a senior, has made her faith even more her own by incorporating it into each moment of her days, looking for opportunities at lunch, track practice, etc. to engage in conversations. Many other students like these are also taking steps to develop a relationship with God and help others to do the same.
As students pursue questions, conversations, growth, and life-change I am thankful to have the opportunity to be a part of the next steps of their journeys. I am thankful to be able to walk alongside them in the discovery process, sharing what I have and am learning in my own process. Our mentoring conversations prepare them to train, mentor, and lead other students in a similar way. Often these next steps occur while sharing a snack, a meal, or a drink. Many times their processing is informed through resources or training available through Collision. I am very thankful for individuals, families, businesses, and churches who contribute their time, talents, and finances to make these moments possible.
Compassion Child Care
What does Compassion Child Care mean to me? It’s hard to exactly describe how much of an impact they’ve had not just on myself, but my children and family. Both of my children have attended Compassion since infancy, one having graduated to Kindergarten, and my youngest being in their Pre-K class now. My oldest was one of the first children to attend from Infants to graduation. I’ve made lifelong friends, and been introduced to so many support groups. As a parent, we always worry about our children and the kind of care and education they’re receiving when we’re away from them. I feel so lucky that my children have been a part of this organization. Not only do they have a safe, healthy, and happy environment to learn and grow in, but they also have come to know God and His love for them. As a single parent it’s hard to stay positive sometimes, especially in light of everything happening in our world, but the teachers and board members genuinely care and love each and every person to enter their doors. I’m truly blessed to know my children have seen, by example, the love and care that God would want us to have for one another. Childcare is also one of the most expensive pieces to a family’s budget. No parent wants to sacrifice quality care to save money, and childcare workers truly deserve a living wage, that values and respects the work they do every day. Knowing my children have been given this opportunity is not something I can truly put into words or even give an adequate thanks for. It is truly a relief to know that my children are safe and happy and are ready for school by the time they leave Pre-K. I can only hope that one day in my future I can donate to help another family receive the blessings we have. Compassion has helped me grow as a person, in my career, as a parent, and with my faith. The impact that Compassion has, not just on parents, but on the children that attend, will help shape families and last their whole lives. My youngest will start Kindergarten next fall, and knowing I will no longer have children attending Compassion isn’t a goodbye, it’s a see you later.
TheHopeLine
Last night I was in desperate need of help and I wanted to thank Madison (the HopeCoach) for being there for me. The wisdom of what she said and her prayers made such a difference for me. I went to bed and woke up this morning stronger and more connected with my true self. I had to meet with my friends this morning, and I was able to be myself and feel their love, rather than be the disconnected person I had felt like. I am listening Madison’s advice to connect with others and God. I am back on track following my purpose.
Thank You, Maria
Partners Worldwide
The Generosity Campaign also supports Partners Worldwide as they are impacting unemployed youth, subsistent farmers, and creating businesses as part of the supply chain. Take a moment to hear from Martin as he shares a recent growth in farming.