This past year, has been a time of growth and training. Not just with our adult volunteers but also with our children. In every group you find that there are just those kids that need a little extra attention. Their pain is deep, and thus, the acting out is strong. These situations I can say with confidence is where my team thrives. With each one, our team welcomes them fully into the fold. Embracing their pain, their strong personalities, and all the disfunction that comes with it. They set clear boundaries, but offer grace. They call out the gold, and offer them leadership roles to show that they are worthy to be trusted. The fruit of their labor is evident in the transformation of hearts.
L-R: Victor, Omar, Joel, Geovani, Sam, Anahi, Joselyn, Jazmin
Meet our La Peña base “staff” volunteers. 7 children who have “grown” with us. 7 children who we have seen come to life in the most profound way. 7 children whose hearts are being transformed through trust, love, consistency and purpose.
The most precious thing was when the girls brought in flowers to set the table with. Wanting to make it even more special for the kids.
This little staff works under our community center coordinator, Sam. They help with set up, distribution of the meals, welcoming the children, washing hands, the lessons and activities, as well as clean up and tear down. They are proud of what they do. They are proud of their roles. And we are proud of them. This little staff we believe will run this center in no time. They are learning the ropes and love that they are apart of something bigger then themselves. Not only do they belong, but they love that they are creating a safe place for the children who walk through our doors, with hopes that those children don’t have to experience what they have experienced in their own short little lives.
