Memos from Jackie

Fall 2011
I cannot believe it is fall.  You probably feel the same.  Sometimes I am asked how things are around "HOPEVILLE", well I am happy and thankful to report things are good.  You mean you are not struggling with some finances you may ask?  No I did not say that.  You mean all the kids you are working with are turning their lives around you may ask?  Well no they all are not.  You mean that some days you and Tony and the volunteers don't wonder if what you are investing your lives in is doing any good?  Yes, there are those days for all of us.  Do you have everything you need to meet the needs of the kids?  Well, yes and no.  Are you confused?  Let me explain.
Things are good in "HOPEVILLE" (which refers to anything and everything about this ministry) because God is good and this ministry belongs to Him.  We have depended on Him since 1995 to provide what we need and to change young people's hearts and ultimately their lives.  We are simply his "foot soldiers".  As long as we are doing what God has asked us to do, love kids and tell them about Jesus, then things will always be good.
Clark County Juvenile court is experiencing some of its lowest numbers in many years.  That is a good thing.  I believe a part of that is God working in the lives of some young people which have allowed Him to do so.  Our Spring golf scramble was the best yet, and we appreciate all of the participants and sponsors!  Our Summer basketball camp was a big success with lots of kids, lots of fun, and lots of sharing.  We have held two S.F.L. (Job / Employability Skills) sessions recently, and they are going well under Tony's direction.  We are serving around 100 to 150 kids, in our six programs, each week.  What a privilege it is to be able to do so.  We are grateful for those of you that pray for H.O.P.E., volunteer in one of our programs, give financially, or assist in any way.  Challenged, but hopeful, in HOPEVILLE!!  Praise God!!!