Brighter Tomorrows - David's Story

 

     This past Thanksgiving, we had a feast with the youth and staff of UMCH.  It was a great time of fellowship, to see everyone come together and be a family for the youth we serve.  At the end of the meal, some of the youth had an opportunity to say what they were thankful for.  David (not his real name) stood up and told his story:

 

 

     Hello, ladies and gentleman. Thank you for allowing me to share my story with you. I am 19 years old and I attend Quest School. I started Quest at the age of 17 and like most 17 year olds, I was ready to graduate and be done with school, but others saw differently for me.

 

     I can remember my first day at Quest. I could only sit at my desk for 7 minutes. Then I would get up from my seat and pace the classroom or even just stand at the back of the room. I would struggle with following directions and going to sleep in class.

 

     One day I stood in front of the mirror and it hit me – “Wow, I do need help!” So I started to put strategies together. After the mirror reflection, I started to open up and receive help from my teacher and other support. I’m now a successful student and a successful young man. I can now stay in my seat and not fall asleep, by using strategies like getting a drink of water, taking a quick walk outside, and standing at my desk when feeling tired. I’m maintaining a 3.6 GPA and I’m able to advocate when needing support. Soon, I will have the opportunity to volunteer at Hope Christian Outreach.

 

     My goals are to attend Rend Lake College and get my Occupational Certificate in Criminal Justice and to become a pastor. I’m accomplishing my goals by not letting the small stuff take control of me and not falling into negative behavior. I’m allowing myself to step into the future and not live my life with a stamp on it… I live to walk through my Journey.

 

     Thank you and God bless.

 

 

     David has not quite met his full potential, but he will definitely have “Brighter Tomorrows.”  We would like to praise David for being goal oriented and growing from a past that may have just held him back.  We have no doubt that he has the potential to achieve his goals.  In fact, he is preparing to start taking courses from Rend Lake College while he is still attending Quest School.

 

     Please take the time to donate to the United Methodist Children’s Home.  Your contribution will help give youth like David the opportunity to find their voice by “Healing Today for a Brighter Tomorrow.”

 

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