Greetings from Chuck Knowles.
Thank you for letting me take a few moments of your time. This letter brings with it an update for some and for others an introduction. Though I know many of you there are some of you receiving this letter today because of a mutual friend of ours.
I have just recently accepted the position of director of the Juvenile Justice Ministry, JJM, for Youth for Christ. The JJM has had a long and positive track record with working with the Segwick County Juvenile Justice program but has recently been without a director. This important ministry provides chaplains, chapel services, and one-on-one mentoring to the County and we do not want to lose the in-roads made within the facilities. I consider it a privilege to be able to work with our youth in their time of crisis. In addition to the spiritual encouragement already taking place I will add classes focusing on family reconciliation, personal development, interpersonal relationships, and crisis intervention. I believe my calling in life is to teach others how to use biblical principles in a practical way to change their life. I have a desire to encourage people to see that their current problems do not have to dominate their lives.
I see a tremendous opportunity to make a positive impact for our community in Wichita. Research tends to verify that faith-based organizations, like Youth for Christ, are the backbone of any community. When people are hurting or struggling with overwhelming difficulties, faith-based ministries have always given solace and direction to individuals in their time of need. As stated Kansas cuts funding for Sedgwick County evidence-based programs, this can be a tremendous time for Wichita's local churches to step up and make a difference in these kids lives. Focusing on recovery oriented programs can provide the encouragement and direction some of these kids need to become productive members of our community.
As this door of opportunity opens for me it is also opening for some of you. I consider it a privilege to extend the invitation for you to join me in this life changing work. Some of you will be able to support this ministry financially while others may choose to volunteer their time. I hope that you will prayerfully consider what assets you can share to impact the youth in our city needing our support at this time in their lives.
