The Voice of Champions SPRING EDITION 2021 In 2020, hardships were a blessing-in-disguise as they became a source of deep reflection about what was essential for the mission of Today’s Youth Matter. The view of our donors evolved as many of them became Champions of our cause. Champions are more than donors; they enjoy deeper relationships, shared experiences, and profound dialogue related to our mission. In the light of the George Floyd incident and recent social and civil unrest around the country, I have been fortunate to have shared some very hard and compelling conversations with some of our TYM Champions. These conversations were led with a prayer expressing sympathy and concern for the kids and families from the marginalized and disadvantaged communities we serve. With a sincere desire to demonstrate compassion and generosity, our Champions expressed the desire to use their time, talents, and resources to bring real support toward progressing the mission of TYM. We learned that our Champions want to change the world and become kingdom partners with TYM and the communities we serve. The social challenges we are now facing, although uncomfortable to consider, are opportunities to reflect on our own moral and spiritual responsibilities. (continued on page 2)
B i l ly C o l e m a n Executive Director
Let From Your Light Shine “He sings, “He who sings, prays prays twice” twice” Fear towho Freedom Matthew 5:16
These reflections have allowed our Champions to gain a new perspective on building collaborative and spirit-led partnerships to advance God’s Kingdom in the Bay Area. We want to continue to allow our Champions to voice their passion for our shared cause--Transforming the Lives of Urban Youth. We are all challenged to embrace our role in a world filled with a great need that forces us to live with our eyes wide open, truly seeing those around us and listening carefully to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Additionally, when we make a point to form relationships across socio-economic, racial, and cultural lines, we reflect God’s heart. This process of reflection increases our tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect while decreasing fear and anger. Our love for others makes God happy.
Champions are more than donors; they enjoy deeper relationships, shared experiences, and profound dialogue related to our mission
Everyone has a vital part to play. Become a member of a new generation of generosity and rediscovering the relationship between mission, giving, and receiving. The passion of the giver is as vital as the numerical value of the gifts they give. At the core, this a spiritual act of transformation for both the giver and receiver, smiled upon by the ultimate Giver. Building and embracing community is a biblical calling that fits perfectly within our Spring Campaign theme: rise to the occasion and SHINE. Consider this verse, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
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Join the Journey by adding your voice to the conversation. Jump into the reality of TYM’s vital mission to change the life trajectory of urban at-risk kids now. Schedule a Champion Chat with me today.
When we make a point to form relationships across socio-economic, racial, and cultural lines, we reflect God’s heart.
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The work of a champion by Charles Woodfork, THRIVE! Student Volunteer
Defining a champion by Joe Reid, TYM Board Member
In sports, it is easy to determine champions by the “winner” at the end of the season or the race. What is sometimes overlooked is the effort it takes to become a champion. I’d like to think that the efforts of our TYM staff in tutoring, leadership, Summer Camp and our TYM Christmas party for families that might not otherwise afford a Christmas celebration is a similar effort that will result in our TYM youth becoming “champions in their community, in their families and learning to live a Christ-based life. I’ve found that my friends are taken in by the work that TYM accomplishes. In our recent golf tournament to raise money for TYM Walkathon, we didn’t speak of who was “winning” in golf but by supporting TYM financially we helped provide the “voice” of those people who will become “champions” in their community and in their families. It is those Voices of Champions that I want people to hear!
Voices from our Champions The more I learn about TYM and its work in our community the more I realize this is an organization that needs my resources … our resources. I truly realize these are unique and challenging times. Even more so for the families and kids that TYM serves. With the COVID pandemic the need is even greater. I am very grateful that several Bay Area firms and Foundations have partnered with TYM including Wells Fargo, Mechanics Bank and The Lesher Foundation. --James H Brandt, TYM Board Member
Being able to connect with TYM and enter this mentoring program was such an eye-opening experience. Working with the kids week after week and seeing them improve and become confident in areas that were once shaky for them was a confidence booster for me. This experience helped me grow and gave me new friends. It was sad that the year ended so abruptly, but I am glad I got to see some of them on an online summer camp. TYM allowed me to explore my passion for teaching and working with kids, as well as give back to my community in a positive way. As I matriculate to North Carolina A&T in the fall on a full tuition scholarship as a member of the honors program, I plan to major in nutrition with the ultimate goal of working in medicine and community development to eliminate the risk factors that systematically oppress communities of color. A large platform of my future work will consist of effectively collaborating with and educating members of the various communities that I hope to reach out to, both are skills which have been strengthened by my TYM experience and participation in the enriching activities that are used to build this strong sense of community around attendees. All in all, becoming part of TYM helped me to foster essential qualities and gave me memories that will last me a life time.”
It has been an honor to support TYM all these years. It is a blessing to the kids and their families that TYM is able to provide these special experiences. --Donna, Heaven’s Helping Hand
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469 Valley Way | Milpitas, CA 95035
“I love feeling cared about and what I am most thankful about for TYM is having a bunch of leaders who will be willing to help us and go the extra mile.” --TYM Student
“It takes a community to raise a child. I think that TYM is awesome to be able to incorporate more male figures in my son’s life.” --Mother of a TYM Student
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