This morning dawns clear, humid and breezy.
A heartfelt Thank You to the "Yellow Box" Community Christian Church in Naperville, IL. You've hosted us on our first leg of the journey, and will be our respite in the return. Thank You for your openness and warmth.
About a 4 hour drive (plus potty stops) from Naperville to Cedar Rapids. Time for us to refocus on the purpose of the mission trip.
As we'll get closer in, the youth will begin to see the signs from the floods from last June. Of the 8,300 homes that were damaged and destroy last year, more than 5,300 have not been touched and repaired. The needs are so great.
Most of the repair effort is coming from faith based groups like us. Tnat's not to say that the government isn't, or hasn't helped - it has. The City of Cedar Rapids has created a position of Assistant City Manager for Disaster Recovery. The need is so great, the challenge so real.
Can we make a difference?
We've already touched at least one family's life. The young man Pucci from the Community Christian Church (here in Naperville) was impressed with MUMC's zeal and drive, and asked if he could join with us.
Back in the day, when YSP was known as ASP (Appalachia Service Project), before Shawn, and Heather, and Kathy, and Judge Swain and . . . . . . the founder of Appalachia Service Project was Glenn "Tex" Evans. A minister who saw the power of high-school age youth, youth like our youth. His basic premise was, and still is, helping one family at a time. As they are, where they are.
That's why ASP, YSP is so powerful. Youth reaching out. Helping families.
As they are, where they are.
Thank yo to all the friends, family and folks back in the Mentor area for all the support and faith in the youth to allow us to begin this year's YSP work.
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Have a good drive today! I am jealous I am not with you! And Rob, remember which toll lane to be in! :) I am praying for you all.
ReplyDeleteWe remembered to fill up with gas yeterday, of course it wasn't until after the car dinged to let us know it was empty!
ReplyDeleteHi!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you are off to a great start for your trip! I miss being with you all and sharing in a great week of doing the Lord's work in other parts of the country! I am glad it was a beautiful day in Chicago and I am praying for you all! Much love,
Andrea
Wow...you made it to Camp Hitaga safe and sound. Sorry to hear about the poor cell phone reception but my guess is God has a plan for that! Looks like you have
ReplyDeleteperfect weather forecasted for this week...I can't wait to hear the incredible stories I know you will all tell. Will be praying for each of you ...youth, adults and Pucci! Love to all...Mrs. G
Glad to hear that Chicago was alot of fun and a great spot to check out.. You all are probably setting up camp in Cedar Rapids by now.
ReplyDeleteHere's to a safe and productive week.
Any chance we will see any photos???
Before and After shots...
Take care... Mr. and Mrs. Murphy
Following the blog! Wishing we were with you! I know how amazing, fun, inspirational, and crazy this group is. Hang onto the moment that you are in! Create tons of memories! Plant seeds of faith in yourself and others! Who knows what huge adventures God has in store for you! Be open to the call this week and forever! Laugh a lot! Peace and tons of prayers and good energy coming your way from Kathy and Danny Dickriede
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