Merry Christmas
The holiday season is among us and there is much to reflect on with gratitude. Our major fundraiser – a golf and silent auction event – occurred in mid-September and we had a rich time interacting with players, volunteers, and sponsors. Year-after-year, I find this event to be so invigorating because it reminds me WHO ELSE we do this work for. Of course we engage in it to tell incarcerated youth about Jesus, but we do it as representatives of YOU. We get the blessing of being the hands and feet of those who feel a burden for, but aren’t in the same position we are in to go inside and meet with youth one-on-one.
After the tournament was over, I went to Colorado to gather with a group of Executive Directors that I have been connected with for two years. This Affinity Group has filled a significant role in my development as a leader. Through these relationships, I have been encouraged, equipped, and invigorated in ways that are so meaningful. Specifically the reminder that I’m not doing this alone, the leadership skills each of them bring to the table and share what’s working and how we can collaborate and learn from each other.
Between now and the end of the year, my ministry goals are to invest in our volunteers to help guide and equip them when meeting with the youth. To begin doing ministry at Marion County Juvenile Detention, and map out 2025 to build on our successes and give us opportunity to reach more youth. We’ve been busy hosting Christmas activities for the youth at Linn County Juvenile Detention, Jackie Winters Transition Program, and helping serve at a special holiday dinner for some youth at Maclaren with their families. I’m so grateful for you, my volunteers and staff! Without you, this ministry doesn’t happen. THANK YOU!
On a personal note, many of you know that in August of 2023, I stepped into a new role as a foster parent. Fourteen months later I have had the honor of providing a home to three different youth: a 16-year-old female, an 8-year-old male, and most recently, a 13-year-old female.. When the 16 yr. old female was found to have greater needs than I could provide for, she was removed and placed in a context with greater care. While that was difficult, it definitely equipped me to serve as a short-term placement for a boy who was being transitioned back to live with his birth mom. He has moved back home now and doing well. I continue to maintain relationships with both youth. I took a short break from fostering with intentions of stepping back in at some point. Yesterday, I received a notification that our counties Department of Human Services had an urgent need for a placement for a 13-year-old female. I’ve been saying no to many requests but with Christmas right around the corner it was hard to say no. My home was a perfect fit for her needs. The plan is to help care for her through the holidays so ODHS has some time to find a permanent placement after the new year. Thanks to those of you who have encouraged me along the way.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!
P.S. If you’re looking for a place to donate a year end gift, I ask that you consider Mid-Valley Youth For Christ. You can donate online at http://mvyfc.org/donations or send a check to MvYFC, P.O. Box 2161, Salem OR 97308. Â
