A young man stopped by to see me this week and reminded me of how Urban Youth Impact shines in this community.  Damon attended our programs through high school with his best friend Eric.  His mother an addict and his step-father was physically abusive, so grasping how the Father loved him was difficult for him.  He grew in his relationship with the Lord through high school, and I attended his graduation.  

Damon had so much promise and potential until his friend Eric died.  He lost interest and drifted from our programs and turned to the streets.

Damon said, “It felt like Satan had taken over my life.  Throughout the years I spent on the street, I never forgot the words that I heard about Christ.”

Now a 33 year old man, who was recently released from prison after being involved in a shooting, the first place he came was back to was Urban Youth Impact.  Damon told me that he wants to put his past behind him.  “I want to move forward to the life that God has for me.  I want to surround myself with friends who will encourage me so I can be an encouragement to others.”  He knows he has support at Urban Youth Impact.

As I come into this Thanksgiving season, there is so much to be grateful for…God’s hand on our work…stories of changed lives…and critical to it all, your financial support, your prayers, and your volunteer hours allow our life-changing work to continue. 

Entering this “season of sharing”, I ask for your support.  During the next two months, we need to raise $300,000 to ensure we’ll be here for Damon and others in need of loving support and guidance.  Your contribution at any level will make a difference. 

Thank you for joining us in our work to love, equip and empower inner-city youth and their parents to fulfill their God-given purpose. May God bless you and your family during this special season!