Are You Being Called?
by Ron Sloan
Since retirement, I have had the privilege of being a volunteer Court Appointed SpecialAdvocate (CASA). I look out for the interests of children identified as needing state services and protection. In every case I have been given, my children have had parents addicted to elicit drugs, unemployed, divorced, and in most cases possessing a criminal record. These are the children assigned to foster care.The lives of these children have been characterized by multiple traumas through no fault of their own. Being placed with an entirely new family is just one more. Thus it is not surprising that around 50% of these new living arrangements fail. According to one study the “total number of placements per youth ranges from one to 39. The average number of placements is 8.3.” Each new placement decreases child brain functioning and increases the likelihood for academic failure, incarnation, and sexual abuse. These children deserve better outcomes and more stable homes.Hands of Hope is a Christian organization (led by a Taylor grad) based in Noblesville, but operating statewide. Their caring communities have helped change the 50% first-year failure rate to a 90% success rate. Here are some features of the program:
- Caring Community consists of 8 members
- Provides support in each team member’s area of expertise
- Provides a meal once a week (each member bring a meal every 8 weeks)
- Commits to a one-year relationship
Our church has decided to form a caring community once we reach the eight-person threshold. Why are doing this?
- Because Isaiah 1:17 says to defend the orphan
- Because James 1:27 says to visit the orphan
- Because Jesus says in Matthew 18:5 whenever we receive a child we receive Him
We have four volunteers committed thus far and plan to have an information meeting aboutthe program in a few weeks. We need you! Pray about this. Are you being called to assist in this mission? In the meantime, contact Pastor Kate or me for information.
