Investing in the Next Generation
On Tuesday, 38 members of Lutheran High School’s track and field team came to our office after a full day of school and practice. They spent the evening learning about human trafficking, assembling approximately 200 gift bags, and writing personal notes for the women our team meets through street and club outreach. The students generously provided all the supplies for the bags, which our outreach team will begin distributing this week.
This was the third time Lutheran High School has brought a group of students to learn and volunteer with us. For some of the leaders who had attended previously, the evening included an incredible moment. During one of their earlier visits, Shannon was still a resident in our transitional living program. Ked interviewed her in front of the students, and she shared part of her story with them. This time, they saw Shannon again, but now she was standing in front of them as a member of our staff and outreach team. Those who remembered her were amazed by the transformation they could see. The students were able to meet a woman whose life God has continued to restore and who is now using her own story to reach other women.
Ked had a freshman boy, who approached him that evening and said, “I bet you’ve been able to help a lot of women over the years, and I bet it means a lot to them. I just want to say thank you for what you’re doing.” These are the experiences that shape the perspective of a generation. We are so proud of this young man and the heart he already has for others.
This is exactly why we want to keep creating opportunities for young people to learn about trafficking and become involved in the fight against it. We want to raise up students who will advocate for vulnerable women, educate others, and use the influence God has given them to stand up for those who may not be able to stand up for themselves. Some may return to volunteer or eventually intern with us. Others may carry what they learned into their schools, churches, and future careers. We may not see all the ways God uses an evening like this, but we believe that something important is being planted.
If you know a school, youth group, athletic team, or student organization that needs service hours or has a heart to learn more about this issue, we would love to connect with them. Simply reply to this email to begin the conversation. Thank you for helping us invest in the next generation.
Shannon - Thriving Survivor
