Incredible Generosity

I was talking with someone recently who had spent some time tutoring children in local migrant camps. 

It was momentarily exciting for me to communicate with someone in a similar line of work, with a seemingly similar passion.  "I'm not going back though.  Studies show that these organizations don't actually do any good for these kids."  Whoosh.... the sound of me deflating...

Of course this isn't true.  I have files and files of success stories that would bring anyone to tears.  These success stories are entirely due to a caring community that has reached out to these children and given selflessly. 

This is my class.  Or was... back in September.  I only had 10 students on the first day.  I now have 21 sweet and wonderful 1st and 2nd graders!

There are more than 100 people who volunteer to come in weekly and tutor the 50 children in our program.  Many come in after work.  They have the choice to go home, put on their cozy sweatpants, and have dinner with their families.  Despite their tiredness, and the fact that it is cold, wet, and dark this time of year, they come in joyfully to tutor, mentor, and love these kids.

There is a local farmer who planted a pumpkin patch just for our students.  

This is a generous church who gives us free use of their facilities as we wait for our new classrooms to be built.

The congregation is currently putting together Thanksgiving baskets for our students and their families. These baskets are massive, and have enough food to feed their families for a while.

This is a local glass artist who invites our students in each year to blow glass ornaments with him... which they get to keep!  These things retail for $40 in his shop!

This is a retired Master Gardener from Washington State University.  He has his PhD in horticulture for gosh sakes! He comes in weekly to teach our students how to grow fruits and vegetables.

This is an organization that is giving free pajamas to our kids for Christmas this year!  

I could go on forever!  Do you see why my heart is so full here?!?!  I haven't even mentioned yet that our program is mostly funded by private donors!  There are so many people donating their time, knowledge, and resources to invest in our community's underprivileged kids.