At the end of the first day of socially distanced summer camp, we gathered in our staff circle. Each team member shared a high and low point and words of appreciation for each other.
In my 13 years of leading these meetings, I don’t think I’ve ever heard such an overflow of affirmation in one day. Two co-teachers for each grade ran their own mini camps and truly depended on each other; this was reflected in the comments they shared. The other person getting high accolades was our new TeamLeader, Trey.
“Trey was everywhere today. He was always there when you needed something.” “I want to encourage Trey because he really brought the energy for skit and song time.” “I needed help with my class and Trey was there to help me out.” Trey excelled as a TeamLeader this summer. He exemplified whole-heartedness.
Each day during our meeting, a person would share their life story. Trey gave me permission to share part of his story with you. “Growing up, my dad was in and out of jail. I didn’t get much time with him. I acted really childish at elementary school and did stupid things so the other kids didn’t like me. I fought with other students in my class, but then I got moved into a gifted and talented class. That teacher didn’t put up with anything. From like 12-14 years old all we did was go to the park every day and fight. I would get mad at the dumbest things. My anger was out of control.
When I was about to turn 14, Ms. Kristin said I should work at UrbanPromise. I put in my application on my birthday and had an interview. I waited and waited and finally got to start working that Spring. Working at UrbanPromise changed my life. I stopped fighting and doing bad things. I stopped getting into trouble. I brought up my grades.”
When he was finished speaking, two of his close friends who are also StreetLeaders wanted to share their perspective, “I have a ‘put up’ for Trey because I remember him doing bad stuff in the neighborhood. I’ve seen transformation in his life.” James added, “I want to say that, too. I remember him fighting all of the time and it puts a smile on my face to see how he’s transformed.” They both prayed for him and thanked God for the transformation in his life. Transformation is happening through the power of Jesus Christ and His community.