WHAT IS OUR WHY…
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, I have worked with children from various backgrounds including high-income areas, those with disabilities and special needs, foster children, and those living in poverty. Through my work, I have observed that these children often feel defined by their circumstances unless they are guided to discover their identity in Christ. I believe that spiritual healing is essential to liberate them from the chains of poverty, neglect, abuse, and trauma. Whether they come from affluent families with emotional neglect or impoverished backgrounds with scarce resources, the key lies in recognizing their worth and purpose. If they continue to let their circumstances dictate their identity, the cycles of generational struggles will persist. Our goal is to empower these children to break free from these constraints and embrace an identity in Christ that will enable them to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to their communities.
Think back to the bible where the enemy tried to kill off Moses and Jesus as a baby. The enemy has been after children for a long time and today it is a blatant attack on the minds of our youth. This is our next generation! If we do not step in to teach them who they are in Christ, then the world will teach them worldly identity and we see what that looks like. When dealing with this generation, it can be daunting as we see what they are surrounded by on a daily basis. If only a small seed is planted then it is all worth it! These children have so much to offer, but they cannot see it right now. We cannot sit back and think someone else will help them…we are called to teach this next generation, not only with words, but our actions.
Children’s brains develop connections at a rapid pace during the first seven years of life, shaping the foundations for learning, health, and behavior. The age group that is currently experiencing the most negative influence seems to be toddlers through elementary school children. At NELA Youth, we focus on investing time in the entire family, which typically includes children ranging from 3 years old to 18 years old.
We definitely need bold parents who are willing to stand up against corruption and lies that are being fed to our children. It’s crucial for spiritual moms and dads to step in and protect these children. One way to do this is by building relationships with them and spending time mentoring and discipling them. At NELA Youth, this is what we focus on – building relationships and trust to speak life over them and teach them about their identity in Christ.
Many of the children we work with come from single mom homes, which can be overwhelming for them. We observe them struggling just to get by, so we intervene to demonstrate that there is a wealth of opportunities in life! Breaking free from a mindset of limitation is crucial. It is essential that we elevate ourselves and venture beyond our comfort zones. Therefore, let’s embody the compassion and kindness of Jesus and witness the transformation He will bring to our community! Are you seeking change? Then, embrace the change!
GO build the Kingdom! Andrea Greer
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:10-11