Teen Leaders

Teens can lead the way in our generosity journey. Below our Director of FUSION (special needs ministry) tells about two teens who went beyond to help a family with special needs.

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I have 2 amazing teen leaders—Matt and Sara. They are not members of Good Shepherd, but heard about our program from Sara’s mom. Sara and Matt have been helping with Buddy Break for the past eight months and are two of my most passionate leaders. They arrive early to connect with other leaders, stay late to help clean up, and keep their energy level high and contagious for the entire 3 hours of Buddy Break as they play with the kiddos.

About two months ago, Matt approached me, saying he was interested in babysitting for kids with special needs. Having no experience with kids with special needs before Buddy Break, Matt had grown to love working with them so much, he wanted to use that passion to possibly make some money and serve families. Matt also recognized that their parents rarely had a break and he wanted to be able to provide them a break. I told him I would keep him in mind as I often hear from families that need babysitters.

About a month later, a FUSION family approached me saying they needed help finding childcare for their 2 kids. They would need extensive help for a week and wanted to know if I knew of anyone. I looked over my list of FUSION leaders, asked a couple people who were able to fill some of the hours, but there were still holes. I prayed that God would show me who I could ask… and immediately Matt and Sara came to mind. I contacted Matt and Sara and they were able to take all the hours that were left! They didn’t know what they would be paid, or if they would be paid… They saw a need and with their generous hearts, decided to fill it! Now, this family has 2 students they can call on to watch their kids if needed, knowing their child with special needs and his sibling are in good hands!

Danielle Schaeffer, Director of FUSION