logo with celebrationHope Church’s Kids Hope program concluded its 2012-2013 program year on May 3. A highlight of our final week was the year-end party held on Thursday, May 2. Over 90 people were present for this celebration where we recognized the 14 children we have mentored this year.

We have now completed ten years of partnership with Vanderbilt Charter Academy. Over the years, many members of the Hope Church family have participated in this program and we are grateful for their efforts to provide hope for at-risk children in our community. We would like to send out a big thank you to our mentors and substitute mentors. We would also like to thank the Community Ministry for the special support provided during our year-end party. And also the members of the Hope Church staff who provide support services for the work we do.

Each person is a necessary part of our Kids Hope team. Without their commitment, it would be impossible for our Kids Hope program to run smoothly. We hope that when you see them, you will join us in thanking them for their faithfulness to the children of Vanderbilt. As the founder of Kids Hope, Virgil Gulker, often says, they have been “Jesus with skin on,” sharing Christ’s love through their actions.

Finally, we want to offer a special thanks for the on-going support of the entire congregation. We know this ministry would not exist without you. Thank you for your prayers and for the financial support which makes all of this possible. We look forward to continuing this ministry with you during the 2013-2014 school year.

Anne Duinkerken and Barbara Joldersma, Kids Hope USA Co-Directors