“Let the little ones come to me, and do not keep them away for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:14
What can you accomplish with just one hour a week? How can you serve the local school and your community? Willow Creek is teaming up with Kids Hope USA (KHUSA), an award-winning mentoring program, which works exclusively through churches. It promotes a one-to-one relationship with at-risk public elementary school children. Educators and law enforcement officials agree that coming alongside a child during the critical formative years when values, self-esteem, and academic skills are acquired can have the greatest impact. A successful mentor does not have to have a background in education—just a heart to serve. “I love the vision of mentoring at-risk kids—getting them before the 'world' does, and trying to guide them to the 'right' path,” said Sue Dunn who will be one of the Willow program directors.
Why Willow Creek Is partnering with Kids Hope USA
At risk children often lack support from home. With love and nurturing, Willow Creekers can see a large reward on their investment. The Frost Research Center reports that 99.3% of children with KHUSA demonstrate academic improvement and motivation to learn—key tools for future success. If a child doesn’t learn to read by the third grade, research has shown, they are more likely to live a life of crime and experience drug and alcohol dependency.
Attend a Willow Creek Mentoring Training Class on Saturday, October 16
Learn how to put your faith into action and affect your community and get equipped to make a lifelong difference in an at-risk child’s life by attending an upcoming class on Saturday, October 16 from 8–11 a.m. You can also be a prayer partner for a mentor and child. Connie Kitzinger, a Willow Creek volunteer with a Master’s degree in Communications and Adult Education, will provide the necessary tools.
“It is a simple, effective way to assess change in the life of a child.” –Connie Kitzinger.
“I hope to see a child who looks forward to my arrival each week because our developing relationship has made her feel more loved, appreciated and successful at school.” –Lynne Sell who attended a Willow KHUSA director’s conference.
Sign up for the class at classes.willowcreek.org.
If you would like more information on KHUSA, please contact the Compassion and Justice ministry.
One child. One hour. One church. One school.
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