Compassion. It is a word we hear bandied about with regularity, but too often it is merely described as an emotion. Compassion, to be true to itself, must link heart-felt emotion with intentional action. It is to leave what is comfortable to come alongside and journey with another.
As I reflect on each of the team members of YU North York, I see compassion restored to its truest and deepest meaning. People who have left stable jobs to serve youth in North York, and others volunteering, giving up their Friday nights to be with young men.
Our team embodies what YU North York is about, by being:
- Present in the community – available not just during ‘program’ times but available to journey through everyday life with youth;
- A positive adult role model, which is consistently recognized as the single biggest influence on a young person’s life;
- Creative in engaging youth and adapting to the needs of the community;
- Passionate about young people – not as tomorrow’s leaders but as positive and transformative members of society today; and
- Rooted in our faith – in the midst of the challenges facing youth in North York, it is the hope of a living and loving God that keeps us pressing on.
What makes me most excited is that for each member of our team, there is a whole network of people joining in that ministry through financial support, prayer and encouragement. This is such an essential part of YU North York.
If you are just learning about us, check out all the ways you can join us.
// Scott Moore
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