I was part of a two day training with all of our staff in Kawartha. That is one of the great things being a satellite in that we all come together. Mark Anderson came and presented his thoughts on Remix and what POD’s could resemble. POD is a community where youth can engage life with some committed volunteers. But it is more than just getting together, the idea is to be involved in the community at large as well.
“Act your way into a new way of thinking” Alan Hirsch. POD’s are a new way of acting and living.
It was a fun week to interact with several youth this week. Tuesday brought out 3 youth to be creative and that they did. It was freestyle arts. Wednesday was street hockey with 7-8 youth and 2 amazing volunteers. I had to watch since I hurt my back. It’s OK now. Thursday was tobogganing and then drop-in time to warm up with a half dozen youth. Great times and interaction. Tomorrow,we have our regular Friday night drop-in.
So, it is that time where I write personalized notes to include with my newsletter. It is a rewarding time as I pray for people as I send them out. Was just reminded of a story. I got involved with Big Brothers in 2001 or 2002. You never realize the impact one can make at the time. We spent lots of time hanging out at the local attractions, paint ball, camping trips, wax musuems, go-karting and so on. It was time together over several months. So, fast forward several years and I am involved with youth still and doing it full time. His mother was one of my first partners and still continues to be. Now, the youth I spent all that time with is partnering with me as well. God used me for a time in his life at time when he needed it the most. Incredible how God works.
So many people are part of impacting the youth of Haliburton Highlands. Each person is part of it. So incredible. I am the guy that is provided with the opportunity to share hope in the lives of these teens. And several years down the road, you too will see how God used you to change a life. What an incredible journey we are part of.
Wednesday at The Bridge, I was chatting with a youth about life and what is it this person wants to get out of it. School is just something that happens and now ‘the classroom’ stuff is winding up and he is looking for a co-op. So, I asked what are you interested in? Do you have any goals for the future? Chatting back and forth, he shared that is a question I think about every day. Life just simply happens for him. I enjoy chats like this over the pool table. I turning into a better, bad pool player.
Last night, I had opportunity to connect with a community action group in Gooderham. They are interested in hearing about our mobile dream. It was good to give a brief history of who we are and sharing this dream. I sense the concept of the mobile is incredible. To be able to bring something into a community that will draw youth out; to train up local volunteers; to continue to ask what the greatest felt need is. I am excited to see this new vision be created.
Teams are signing up to bowl. I think there is 13 all set to go and are currently getting pledges for our March 29th MEGA Bowl. Lots of great prizes and sponsorship. This event is great because it connects The Bridge with the greater community and provides the resources to keep it going. Lots of youth are checking it out. In Feb. alone, 50 new youth came out. God is going amazing things here.
