Dear Friend:
“A Work In Progress”. That seems to describe best the state of Circle Urban Ministries. Sometimes I think that, after 35 years, we would have a more settled routine. You know, doing the after-school thing, giving out food at the pantry, generally “‘doin’ good in the ‘hood.”
Well, thankfully, God doesn’t operate that way. Of the four programs highlighted in this mid-year update, three have either gone through a significant adjustment or are new this past year. The other reached a significant milestone this year.
The College Readiness Program is in its first year with students ranging from entering 7th grade through entering their junior year of high school. Designed as a program to support, encourage, and guide students through their academic careers, it is having significant impact.
The Mentoring Program just completed its sixth program year. Having been launched with a three year federal grant, we have been able to continue to offer this important program through the financial support of our friends following the end of that grant period in 2007. It has been wonderful to continue to offer the kids meaningful adult relationships to supplement the adult relationships in their families.
Our after school program, Circle4Success, was totally re-designed this past school year. Our program director brought faith into it through adapting the book Little Pilgrim’s Progress to our young urban population. A 180 ft. mural project depicting the story is in the works. We also added enrichment opportunities including chess, dance, acrobatics, drumline, and much more. You can view video clips of our recent celebration on YouTube. (Search “Circle Urban-C4S”)
Our Community Care Program has added the support of offering our participants regular prayer support for their personal requests. We have also been able to offer special emergency assistance through a relationship with another funding organization.
All-in-all, God has continued to lead us in ways that have added to the transformation of our Westside community. Thank you for your continued support of the “Work In Progress” here at Circle Urban. Whether you volunteer here, pray regularly for the work here in Austin or support us financially, it is all part of bringing about transformation for the Kingdom.
In His Service,
Glen Kehrein
Executive Director
|
Click the photos
below
for updates
|
