Hootenanny, Confidence, and the Love of a Volunteer

02/09/21

Marcus, a sixth grader, has been a part of UrbanPromise since our inception and has been mentored by one of our weekly volunteers, Mr. Dennis, for over three
years. Last Christmas, I wanted Marcus to see Mr. Dennis in action at the monthly “Hootenanny,” a folk music jam session with about 20 folk musicians.

Marcus, Carrie, and I sat outside of their circle and listened to each person lead a favorite Christmas tune as the others would join in. They stopped for
introductions and each participant shared a snapshot of their history with their particular instrument.

After the musicians finished, Mr. Dennis said, “And now, we need to hear from our friends from UrbanPromise.” I nudged Marcus, “Stand up, Marcus, and introduce yourself.” He stood up without hesitation and very professionally said, “My name is Marcus Young and we came here to hear you all play. I go to the UrbanPromise after-school program, and that’s my tutor, Mr. Dennis.” No umms, no, uhhhs, no shuffling his feet, he stood straight and tall. A formerly shy student now spoke with confidence to a group of total strangers.

Friends, which of our annual speech contests helped develop that skill? Which time that Dennis played scrabble with him or brought an instrument for him to play made
him feel that he’d be accepted by this group? Which time that Dennis shared an encouraging word about his abilities helped him start to believe in himself?

Three years. Three years of Marcus writing and presenting speeches, three years of Marcus’ dad answering the
phone and partnering with us when Marcus was having behavior issues, three years of being encouraged by Mr. Dennis, loved by interns, StreetLeaders, and
being challenged to become more than he dreamed he could be. For a split second, I saw some fruit from those three years: confidence, assurance, boldness. What will these unlocked gifts mean for Marcus’ future?

Earlier that week, Marcus volunteered to pray to close our basketball time. As he prayed, he began thanking God for each person in our circle by name. I got nervous. What if he just prayed for the “cool kids” or the ones that he got along with? I didn’t need to fear. He prayed for each and every one. There is great beauty in these little things; the fruit of a Story that endures as we live out Jesus’ love day by day and year by year.