Anthony joined a gang at 13. Brittnee was often homeless as a child. Some of the other young people spent their childhoods in abusive homes. But—amazingly—each has transformed these stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
Last month, World Vision brought Anthony, Brittnee, and more than 100 young Americans from distressed urban and rural communities to Washington, D.C., for the annual Youth Empowerment Summit.
The youth delivered personal, passionate pleas to their congressmen to support the Youth PROMISE Act violence prevention legislation currently before Congress. They asked pointed questions of Joshua Dubois, director of the White House Office for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. And they learned what I wish I knew at their age—that they can influence change.
Their actions are a challenge to each of us. Do you believe you can influence change—from the halls of Congress to the huts of Africa?
Next Wednesday, August 12, is International Youth Day. What can you do to encourage our young people—here and around the world—who are growing up in tumultuous times?
- Pray that God would heal the wounds of children around the world, so that their stumbling blocks become stepping stones to a better world.
- Tell your congressman to support the Youth PROMISE Act to address youth violence.
- Make a personal investment in a child’s life—in your own city or around the world. Sponsor a child through World Vision.
