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One thing we know about preteens is that they want to make a difference in their community and in their world. What service experiences are you providing for your preteens?
This spring our CLUB56 (preteens) are participating in a canned food and used clothing drive. To kick off the project, we took them to a local Christian outreach center for a short orientation and work session. I also know that preteens like choices and being a part of the decision making process, so I introduced the idea by telling the kids that after the visit, they would get to decide if we would respond to the experience.
I was BLOWN away by the kid's reaction to the experience! The center director rattled off all the tasks our kids would accomplish in our 30 minute work session - stock the toy shelf, bread shelf, bookshelf, sort a flat of grapefruit by throwing out spoiled fruit and stacking the good fruit, sort a pile of donated toys, and tidy up the waiting area. Only 6 of our CLUB56ers were available to come. It's Springbreak here, so I was sure we'd only have time to complete one, maybe two of the tasks. Inspired by the opportunity to make a difference and help people in need, the kids dove in and completed everything on the list and then some. (I'm talking about the same CLUB56ers who have to be reminded and redirected several times to simply tidy up the classroom after our meeting!)
On the van ride home, the kids' unanimously decision was to return on a regular basis to serve. They also chattered on about collecting donations (home goods,toys,clothes) as well as a renewed excitement about the canned food drive project. I will let you know if the excitement and commitment spreads to the children who couldn't join us on the first service outing! With God's guidance, I'm convinced our kids will continue to make a difference in this hands on way!
I eager to hear your stories about preteens in community service!!!
Lisa B from NC
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| Hi Lisa! This month our entire church is focusing on missions. For the kids, we've decided to assemble Easter baskets for the senior residential facility next door. The rest of the month, the kids are bringing in offering. On the 29th we're assembling the 105 baskets (with our special adults) and on the 5th of April we are going on a mission trip to deliver. We are putting tissues, soaps, candy filled eggs and a CD of the kids reading the Easter story. Before we deliver the baskets we will be praying for the residents who are receiving them. This allows the kids to pray, give and go. I am praying that this month will also inspire our Pier 56 to get into action and help out more in the community as well. I'm still trying to get my team to move passed the 1st-6th lumped together and allow the preteens to grow beyond where they are now. We are using the Acts 1:8 challenge material and there are a few videos of kids in action. It is also helpful that the whole church is focusing on this as well. Our pastor laid out the vision of doing Acts 1:8 simultaneously. We are just in the second week, but we are seeing some changing hearts and minds. The best part is that the enthusiasm of the kids is leading the way  . This is why I love CM. Have a great day! Kate
Kate Radford
Children's Ministry Coordiator
Carmichael, CA 
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That's an awesome way to follow through...prepare, pray, then deliver. Cool! I look forward to hearing some stories about the children's experiences
Lisa B from NC
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At my old church I was in charge of our "Teen Helper" program. Starting in 6th grade, students could begin serving as assistants in our children's ministry room. It was great to have a really intentional way of shepherding them and raising them up as leaders. Many of them become teachers when they're older!
Ali Thompson
Curriculum Editor
Group Publishing
970-292-4365
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