As an Area Director overseeing multiple ministry sites, one can sometimes feel disconnected from the on-the-ground day-to-day work of our frontlines staff. Yesterday morning, as part of our work with World Vision in community development (CD), our CD team (Stewart and Karen) were able to lead us on a site visit in the Shoreham community, one of two neighbourhoods where our CD work focuses. Stewart and Karen have mobilized a group of residents, now called the “Shoreham Court Animators”, to advocate for change in the community and spur their neighbours on to foster peace and wellbeing in Shoreham. Two of the Animators joined us for the visit and led us on a walking tour. Their passion, courage, and perseverance were, and are, inspiring.

But it was the kind words of affirmation just as we were leaving that truly touched my heart. We were talking with one of the animators who has lived in the Shoreham community for 30 years and loves her community desperately. She spoke softly, and with tears welling up in her eyes, expressed to us that none of the positive changes that were occurring in her life and in her community could have been possible without the help of Youth Unlimited, and specifically Stewart and Karen. To the outside eye, these changes may be subtle, even virtually unseen, but to this animator, it meant the world. It meant the world that two people and a organization like YU were willing to walk alongside her, all for the sake of making her home a safer, healthier and more whole place. A place that reflects the justice, rest and wellbeing of God’s Kingdom. For me, it was a moment of reconnection and of knowing that we’re making a difference.

// Scott M

Last Saturday, the Revolution(s) group headed west to Rattlesnake Point – part of the Bruce Trail that runs along the beautiful and unique Niagara Peninsula.

It was the first time any of the youth had been to the trail and a rare occasion for many of them to get out of the city.

With much laughter and fun, it was a wonderful step in helping these young people discover new things, in the hopes of developing within them profound passion and purpose in life. // Rodway Daniels & Jesse James

Our new program space in Jane & Finch is truly an encouragement!  The visibility we are experiencing is a plus for touching lives.  Just yesterday, I was standing out front in the courtyard outside of our office enjoying the beautiful day.  A young man walked by and did a double take of our name in front of the space…. then he looked at me and said, “You guys changed my life”!  What an encouragement to hear such a brief statement from a young man with a smile on his face.  It truly is an encouragement to encounter those lives we know in our minds are impacted by our lives of service.  I’m reminded by the words of Paul in his letter to the Thessalonians, “And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.”    //  Stewart Vander Velden

Watch the story of Mwanajuma, one of our recent Blueprints young entrepreneurs, in this documentary produced by Matthew, another Blueprints young entrepreneur!