Several UA volunteers wrote about their experiences this past summer. Enjoy reading the notes below!
"My life has been forever enriched by a group of people that God placed in my
path to minister unto and to be ministered to. I was honored to go on a mission’s trip to
be a part of the Urban Arts weekly camp in Detroit, Michigan. I was not sure how the
experience would be, but I knew that God was in the midst. Upon our arrival and first
few hours meeting with Katie and her parents, all my stress and fears were released. God
has poured into the lives of those running the program and his presence was all around
us.
Seeing as though it was my FIRST mission’s trip, I had no idea what to expect.
I was soon to realize that my purpose was to just to be myself. As a praise and worship
leader, I began to understand how the gifts and moving of the Holy Spirit was going far
beyond the four walls of a church building. This was evident as we went on our way
to prepare for the weeks activities. I thought that I was on “cloud nine” until I met the
wonderful children that are involved with Urban Arts.
The children brought such a level of excitement and openness to everyday and
allowed our team to fall right in place and start working. I will always remember the
smiles and laughter that flowed from every child as well as the workers and parents
that were involved. The UA program is one that every child, rich or poor, shy or bold,
can enjoy and be blessed in. I still tear up when I think of how the final performance
was such a blessing to the parents and friends that gathered. My heart was truly
blessed by the whole experience and can’t wait to get back and continue to work."--Michael from Maryland
The next note was sent from Rachel, from Clinton Townwship, MI, and a second year summer camp volunteer:
"Urban Arts after-school program and summer camp was designed to focus on the kids of Detroit and teach them all areas of art. Although the program was made to impact the kids lives, I feel that it has touched everyone that has ever been a part of it. I have volunteered for Urban Arts summer camp for two years and I did this just to help Katie Beth and of course, the children. Little did I know it was going help and impact my life in so more ways. Urban arts provides city children an extracurricular activity after their school not only keep them out of trouble, but to teach them about Gods love and enhance their God-given artistic talents. These kids come into camp sometimes and won't even stand up in dance class with such negative attitudes. Then performance time comes at the end of the week and they end up dancing, smiling, front and center like nobody is watching. These kids need life and love poured into them and in one week its incredible what an impact we can have on them and how their lives can be transformed. I try to be the best teacher by having the most fun, a Christ-like loving attitude, along with discipline. I have fun, probably as much as the kids. :)
I feel more satisfied and alive after I leave Urban arts summer camp then any job I have ever done. There is an extreme sense of fulfillment after pouring my heart and soul into these kids during summer camp. This program is so full of love, compassion, and energy it gives the kids exactly what they lack. It is heart-warming and incredibly touching to watch these kids put everything into their performance that they have been working on the entire week. After they are done they run with all of their might towards me with the brightest smile and give me strongest hug. It is the best feeling in the world and there is such a sense of accomplishment to watch them perform and and see their faces light up. The focus for the entire program is for the children but indirectly touches my heart tremendously and I am so blessed to be a part of Urban Arts."
The last note is from a mom who volunteered at UA camp the past two summers and brought her children to be a part of the camp as well!
"What a joy and privilege it was to be a part of Urban Arts camp this summer! I said last summer that Urban Arts camp topped the list of my summer high points and the same rings true this year. I am not sure who had more fun... Me or my three daughters who participated with the kids from City Mission Academy. All I could think of while I was there was, “every kid, in every city across the world needs a camp like this”. What an opportunity for them to be loved, told they are special and truly let their lights shine. The children I met that week will forever be in my heart. What sweet and wonderful and gifted young people they are! I am so inspired and encouraged by Katie Beth, Mamma Linda, Papa Wally and all of the amazing volunteers whose commitment to these kids is unwavering and whose faith in Jesus is pure and strong and lovely. I am a better person because of Urban Arts- not because I gave up a week of my life to go there... but because I have been transformed by the Holy Spirit through this ministry. My heart has been broken for children who need hope and my eyes have been opened to see that together we can make a difference. One word to describe my time spent with Urban Arts.... JOY!! You better believe we’ll be back!!"--Karen from Rochester, MI