Issuu

May 2026 | VOL.30 NO.3 Restoring Hope...Transforming Lives ~ Since 1995

Children’s health and development are shaped by complex interactions among biological, spiritual, and environmental influences. The experiences children are exposed to, both positive and negative, have a lasting impact on their development and health across their lifetime. In our August 2024 newsletter, we introduced ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences), highlighting how the intensity and duration of childhood trauma can affect school performance, long-term mental and physical health, and increase the risk of addiction and homelessness. (To view the past newsletter, scan the QR code at the bottom of the page). At the same time, positive, supportive experiences can buffer these affects and promote healthy development. While early childhood is a time of vulnerability, it is also a critical window of opportunity to prevent or reduce long-term harm. ACES can be countered through HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences). Creating safe, stable, and nurturing relationships can make a lasting difference. This is why we champion After School Programs (ASPS). Children impacted by trauma don’t respond primarily to programs, they respond to people. The presence of a consistent, caring adult can have a profound impact on a child’s life. At the Mission’s after-school clubhouse, we work to provide what many children are missing: predictability, belonging, and trusted relationships. Each day begins with greeting children by name, followed by snack and social time, homework or project activities, and a calm wind-down before dismissal. On one day each week, an age-appropriate movie is shown. On Wednesdays, vans from Westwood Baptist Church transport children to AWANA, while others attend youth programs at different churches. We have found that dedicated opportunities for spiritual growth are effective, while also keeping Jesus present through natural, everyday conversations. The Mission also operates a mobile clothing bank. For children with very little, receiving new clothes or shoes is meaningful; it helps them feel confident, valued, and able to fit in at school. After operating one clubhouse intensively for about a year, several lessons are clear. Consistency is essential, it shows children they are valued. Words and tone matter, as children who have experienced trauma are often highly sensitive to changes in mood or perceived threats. Children form unique bonds with different adults, and those relationships must be nurtured carefully to build trust and a sense of safety. We are also seeing encouraging results beyond the clubhouse. When children build strong, positive relationships with volunteers, their behavior improves in other settings, including school, helping them become calmer, less withdrawn, and more ready to learn. Feedback from school staff, bus drivers, AWANA leaders, and apartment management has been consistent: The positive impact of caring adults showing up regularly is unmistakable. Our prayer is that parents will be encouraged to create more stable, loving, and God-centered homes, and be open to support such as parenting classes, anger management resources, and conversations about Jesus. We invite you to join us in praying for lasting life change in these families.