Ozarks Summit Family Day: A Reminder That No One Walks Alone
Recently, we gathered for one of our favorite days of the year — Family Day! It’s the day mentors meet their mentees and families for the first time. It was amazing to see friendships take root — and even more meaningful to see people recognize they’re not alone in their journey. One of the best parts of the day was watching the conversations unfold. Single parents connected with other single parents. Grandparents raising grandchildren found others walking a similar road. Kids met other kids in the program and instantly began building friendships. Community was forming right in front of us.
We also shared some of the new and exciting opportunities ahead this year. Our mentors and mentees will take trips to Wonders of Wildlife, Leadership Ranch, a Springfield Cardinals game, and Sight & Sound Theater. For many of the kids in our program, this will be their first time traveling outside of Howell County, Missouri. These experiences expand vision, build confidence, and create lasting memories.
We also introduced our newly incorporated Monthly Bible Studies program. Each month, mentors and mentees will study a focused Biblical principle together. Topics will include principles such as - developing a positive mindset, serving your neighbor, goal setting, resilience, and perseverance. We want to be intentional about building up both character and faith. We wrapped up the day with mentors and families signing friendship pacts for the year ahead — a meaningful commitment to stand together, stay consistent, and not give up on one another. As we step into this year, we hold onto the promise of Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up.”
To our supporters — thank you. None of this happens without you. Because of your generosity, families are finding community, kids are gaining confidence, and hope is being strengthened across the Ozarks.
For His Glory,
Jared
