Over the past two years our main focus has become working with our leadership teams which consist of teens and older children. We began with a group of seven teenagers who came to us and asked if they could help lead our club gatherings. When we asked why, their response was, ‘so that we can show the same love that we have received from you.’ And so began this group of teenagers who at first would show up for our events and serve in whatever way they could, working tirelessly whether it was setting up tables, serving meals, or cleaning up garbage. They would eagerly ask how they could serve, and no task was beneath them. Over time we have been able to teach them skills that will benefit their future such as administration, organization and delegating. As they have taken on more responsibility, they have begun to plan, organize and lead our lending library, Kids’ Club and special events. We have found ourselves relegated to the role of support, as we have watched them grow into leaders who serve with hearts of love in all they do. In an environment that demeans and places little value on others, they have risen to be examples not only to the children that attend but to the adults in the community. And although their lives are very difficult and they come from families that are not necessarily intact or functional, they have helped us to create a sense of family and community among the neighborhood children.

Out of this group has come a long line of children asking to be part of what they see the older teens doing. And so a junior team has been formed consisting of 10-14 year olds. This group is mentored by the senior teens who have each taken several children under their wings, creating smaller family units. The younger kids help the senior leaders in the library and club, learning from the older teens’ example.

We meet weekly with the senior leaders for a time of discipleship. We have provided personalized bibles and journals and have taken them on a journey of not only discovering God’s love for them but His desire to have intimate communication. (Yessica has provided a room in her house where they can come during the week to have a time of quiet with God.) Every other week the junior leaders meet with the senior leaders for a time of team building games, worship and Bible teaching that is prepared and presented by them.

Because of the poverty in the community and the lack of three meals a day for these children we always provide a meal at every meeting not only for nourishment but as another way to create a time for family as we sit together and fellowship.