Saturday, May 18, 2013

How I got involved in community service!

Over the past few years, the Lord has opened so many doors for me service wise, and I have grown so much throughout the process! Prayer, trust, and faith have lead me to where I know he wants me; serving others and Him.

My passion for service began in 8th grade when I got involved in a school fundraiser for kids with cancer. I went around collecting donations from my friends, family, and teachers. That year, the middle schooler's efforts raised about 7 thousand dollars. One of my teachers, 3 other students and I were also able to actually go and visit the home for the kids with cancer and their families. We got to meet with the kids and see where our money was going and how it would impact these people. That was my first service project and ever since then, I've been in love with missions.

While I was living in Chile (8th grade), I got involved in a couple different service projects. I started going to an orphanage every other Friday afternoon with a group of high schoolers to play with the kids, take them on walks, and feed them dinner. It was an amazing experience, and it helped me realize my love for children. It took a lot of patience, but it was well worth it! 

I also got involved in a Christian ministry called "Vision for Chile" through my best friends mother, who is one of their main coordinators. Through Vision, I was able to also be a part of one of their branches called "House of Hope," a home for college-aged girls who have lived in orphanages most of their lives. The problem is that once they reach the age of 18, the government can no longer support them in their orphanage, so they have to leave. "House of Hope" gives them financial, spiritual, and emotional support. Also, they train them to be business women and give them the tools they'll need to be successful when they graduate. The girls have their own micro business; they make and sell bracelets to raise money to help put towards their college tuition. There are about 8 girls living there now, and I was so blessed to be able to get to know them as my sisters in Christ. Also, through "Vision for Chile," I was able to visit a school for orphans near HOH, and one of my goals is to go back there during college as an intern. I would be living at HOH and teaching english at the school. 

It wasn't until the end of 8th grade that I realized that I wanted to be a missionary. The day it hit me was when I was given a "Vision for Chile" intern shirt by the founder of the ministry. He knew that I was hoping to return, and he gave me this gift as an encouragement and "blessing." That's the moment that I realized that I wanted to serve God and the underprivaleged for the rest of my life.

In Korea, I have gotten involved in a community school for Korean kids who can't afford prestigious Korean tutoring. Every other Saturday morning I teach two arts and crafts classes and help the kids with their English. It's been such a blessing! I am also returning to Cambodia in December of 2013, where I will be reunited with my wonderful Cambodian children and the church leaders I met during my first visit!

Community service has taught me many things, and I will soon write a blog post about those important values the Lord has taught me! Stay tuned!

In Him, 
Emily Claire


2 comments:

  1. Thank you so much for sharing and starting this blog! I can't wait to see how God'll continue to use you to expand His Kingdom! :)

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    1. Thank you Susan, you're love and encouragement mean so much to me! I love working with you and taking inspiration from your love for the Lord! You are a wonderful blessing and sister in Christ to me and countless others!

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