SCHOOLS, YOUTH GROUPS

There are many ways for young people to have an impact on the lives of those in need….and many ways those in need can have an impact on the lives of young people.

Young people seem to have a special sensitivity to those in need. We have been very blessed by the many ways that young people of all ages have made a difference. Some make festive placemats to brighten the dinner tables or decorate paper lunch bags for snacks or lunches that are given out at various shelters. Others raise money for special projects like Valentine treats or school supplies. If you wish we can have someone come and speak from our Speakers Bureau  about some of the challenges of homelessness and poverty.

Here are just a few examples:

• The Young Adult Youth group from Open Door fellowship recently participated in “One Homeless Night “ an initiative designed to give young people an opportunity to experience a very small taste of what is it like to be without resources or a home in the City of London. In the past, other campus groups like Through the Roof and Intervarsity Christian Fellowship have participated in this thoughtful experience.
• After attending the fall banquet with his grandmother in 2006, Brendan Rodgers, just 13 at the time, heard of the need for new playground equipment at Rotholme. . “I was sitting there thinking what a great home life I have and that these kids need this equipment. It should not be a lot of money to raise, so I thought I would help out,” explained Brendan. Brendan wrote a number of letters to individuals, groups and organizations. One of his approaches was to his church, St. Michael and All Angels, which happily donated $2,000. With a smile of satisfaction he confessed that he met his goal of raising $5,000.
• Christine Crowe is a young girl in London who has a giving heart. Since age 9, she has held birthday fundraisers for the Children’s hospital, Birthright and Women’s Community House . This year on Tuesday, January 20th, 2009, Christine becomes a teenager - she turns 13 and she is on a mission ….this year for Mission Services. Join the party dinner, dance and silent auction at the Lamplighter Inn, 591 Wellington Road South – tickets $70.00.
• First year UWO medical students are beautifying Rotholmes building and grounds. Every Monday, a group of these students meet and do whatever needs to be done from painting to minor repairs. Along with their good deeds, these students are providing seeds of hope.