“We Got You.”
It Started at Wednesday’s Gathering of Our Youth Cohort…
One part of the training for the week was how ‘story’ shapes us and how every individual can play a part in the story of their community. While the youth were engaged in the training conversation, it was not a surprise when none of the youth wanted to share their own story. Instead, a couple of the mentors told a piece of their personal story. The youth listened attentively.
One of the Cultivate mentors presented to the youth a service opportunity. There was a couple in a nearby community who were donating their home. A group of three young women who were no longer in the foster care system were having a difficult time with their transition especially finding a place to live. The current homeowners passionately worked to have the home ready by the end of the month. However, the home was still in need of some repair.
”While there’s still allot of painting to do, the projects could be anything that would be needed to get the house ready. Remember, though, this is a volunteer project” said a mentor to the youth. “It will be this Saturday and likely be for most of the day.” Before being able to ask for questions, one of the teens said “We got you.” Seven of the youth volunteered. Two of the volunteers even offered to work a shorter (paid) shift at the Cultivate Coffee Shop on that Saturday so they too could come later in the morning to serve with the team already there.
Along with two mentors, five of the youth were able to work along side the homeowners that Saturday. The Cultivate team spent the day painting closets, taping then painting baseboards through-out the home, and sanding down original doors and fixtures to soon be repainted. The homeowners shared through-out the day their appreciation for all the work being done. With a ”Habit” hamburger and shake lunch supplied by a supportive neighbor, one of the youth led a quick prayer of thanks that included a blessing for the young women who would soon be living in the home.
As a youth and mentor worked on a 60 year old door to prepare it for painting, the teen asked “why are we working on the doors because you’re not allowed to have doors in foster homes?” While the answer was shared around the young women being adults now, his question just opened another ‘door’ for a real life conversation. Both mentors were able to engage through-out the day with the youth finding ways to listen, relate, and equip as each amazing young adult continues to learn the importance of their own story.
(Thank you Randall for sharing this story and investing these youth!)