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From the Advancement Committee:
Friends, we've made it to the middle of August. Wow! Summer sure is in a hurry to finish up. Let's be praying for folks starting school, preparing for harvest, gearing up for IYM committees, etc.
As we go through endings and beginnings we are blessed to have Jesus Christ our Lord right beside us through everything. So, we are starting our fundraising efforts in support of the 2024 IYM budget. We have received $8,600, along with $12,700 in pledges -- we are grateful for the $21,300 raised since IYM sessions. If you have questions about why we are raising these funds, any fundraising suggestions for us, or you'd like us to offer any training/guidance for raising funds, let us know. We are happy to work along with you, and we need your engagement in this effort. Give Damon a call at 517-204-5348 if we can serve you in some way.
Below is the 2023 budget information.
$ 120,422.68 Cash Received
$ 500.00 Pledged
$ 120,922.68 Total
Below is the 2024 budget information.
$ 8,600.00 Cash Received
$ 12, 700.00 Pledged
$ 21,300.00 Total
From the Christian Service Committee:
Here is another community service established by an IYM church member: The Access Youth Center is a program which was originally started by Donnie Phillips, a member of the Wabash Friends, 35-36 years ago. He says it began as a result of a 10-day mission trip where he was able to really listen to God. Returning from that experience, he became aware of kids hanging around after school who needed a positive Christian influence.
Donnie met with two other friends for prayer and planning over the next six months to discern how God wanted them to reach out and how to find a storefront. Their goal was to be available to talk with the kids and have a non-threatening environment. They used Christian posters and music while making a pool table and foosball available. There was no charge for participation. Donnie said this often led to faith talks initiated by the kids. The rules were no fighting, smoking, or cussing, but the kids often reprimanded each other if the rules were infringed upon.
At first they rented space for which they received funding by mission giving from local churches and United Funds. Eventually, they were able to purchase a building on 74 W Canal St. in Wabash as God led the seller to offer a discounted price an led generous donors from the church to supply the funding.
Most programs like this last an average of five years, but this has been long lasting. Originally the ages for the kids were 13-18. Now the ministry has grown to allowing youth who range from 8-18. It is an after school program which also offers weekend activities. They offer meals, games, and excursions. Donnie estimated that 200-300 kids use the program each month.
Donnie is no longer the leader. It is run by a Board of Directors involving 9-10 different churches and leaders in the community. Donnie's advice for anyone wanting to start a similar program in their community is as follows:
1) Pray and involve others with a similar passion.
2) Try to share your vision with churches and your community.
3) Remember it is the Lord’s ministry, not yours and avoid being defensive.
4) Remember that kids are not a project. The purpose is building relationships, making yourself available, sharing your life, sharing your faith, and planting seeds.
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