Reflection From a Volunteer

There were many times I wanted to quit. Some weeks it seemed the kids didn't even care if we were there. My first year working with SCYM was full of ups and downs as we tried to earn the trust and respect of the teens. But they seemed so inconsistent, and it was hard to even get to know them.

But now three years later, I can't believe I have to leave them. Earlier this year, I felt for the first time that kids were coming because they really wanted to, and because they enjoyed spending time hanging out and talking with us. I even had one of the girls I've become close with tell me that we couldn't be replaced. I never thought we would hear that.

I've learned so much working with these kids the last three years. I've learned that youth ministry requires flexibility and patience. We had some nights that were so awful and we felt like failures. Then there were other nights that we were amazed at the work God was doing, in spite of ourselves. And it took almost three whole years to earn the trust of our kids. But it was so rewarding and worth it.

Moving on is very difficult for me. I'm going to be back in Columbus and am trying to find a nursing job. I want to get involved in my youth group back home to build into other teens, and I realize what a crucial time that was in my own life. It's hard leaving the kids here in Springfield that I have come to love, but I'm trusting. I'm trusting that God will continue to bring people into their life to love on them, laugh with them, and challenge them towards following Christ. I'm also trusting that much more of our impact remains unseen, and that these kids will be able to use what we taught and showed them later on when we're long gone. I pray these kids have been blessed by us, but I know I have truly been blessed by them.


Chelsea
SCYM Volunteer