As we wrap up the final details of the summer work that was completed here in Lorain County by Next Step this summer, it’s hard not to take a second to stop and celebrate. God is doing some amazing things here in Lorain County and at Next Step, we feel so privileged to be a part of it. I so wish I could share every reflection from homeowners and community partners with each of you who gave their time to serve this summer. Your investment means more than you may ever know. But to give you a snapshot- I’ll share some celebrations around a couple of key statistics:
287 Volunteers from 10 different states committed a week of their summer to serve in Lorain County. We are confident that each of you was selected by the Lord purposefully. We thank God for you- and pray you are still serving selflessly back in your home communities.
9 Summer Staff members from 8 different states committed 10 weeks of their summer to serving in Lorain County. When I think of the ways these individuals extended themselves to serve youth leaders, students, community members, and each other this summer I feel sharpened as a sister in Christ. I thank God for the opportunity to rub shoulders with the 9 of you in ministry together this summer- and I’m certain I am not alone in that sentiment.
13 Homeowners/ Community Organizations worked alongside Next Step staff and volunteers to complete 22 home repair and community projects in Lorain County this summer. We cannot express enough gratitude to our Lord for the ways he has used these amazing homeowners to teach us and bless us this summer. Countless students, staff, and youth leaders have shared stories of how the families they worked alongside impacted their lives forever. I feel blessed to call these folks my neighbors and eager to see how the Lord continues to work through them to extend his love here in Lorain County.
What a small, yet so very beautiful, snapshot these numbers represent. I invite you to be praying for Lorain County year round with me. For a close up view on these amazing numbers, consider checking out Lorain County for your 2019 mission trip, our arms are open wide!
