As my fourth year with CHAT begins this month, I am amazed by all that God has done in Church Hill. It is easy to be overwhelmed with the crime reports, the failings of some participants, and the apathy of neighborhood residents. But, when I focus on the miracle of some of the CHAT participants, I am in awe. Essence, Monique and Imani have proved the power of God through their transformative lives.
Essence (pictured right with Monique and Imani) has been in my Bible study for three years now. She was a part of the first graduating class of Church Hill Academy and started community college. Her life was one of hardship – abusive families, foster care and group homes. But, she was adopted by Percy and Angie Strickland, the founders of CHAT, participated in CHAT, and has become a beautiful woman of God who excels not only in academics but is committed to being a good friend and leading others to Christ. She has grown in the Lord and even now, encourages me and teaches me truths of God.
Monique graduated and started college with Essence this fall as well. Monique hopes to be an accountant and is paying for her college through a work study program set up by CHAT so that she can stay connected to the CHAT community while receiving funds for her tuition and books.
While Imani was scheduled to graduate, she needs one more class and I will be teaching her individually this fall to finish. She did however get a job at a local childcare center and got an apartment of her own in the community.
These are the girls that I first met when coming to CHAT over 5 years ago and have watched grow into women who trust God and desire a better life. These are the leaders that we hope to raise up through CHAT – not through a certain program but through committed relationships, opening our home, and genuine love. If you are able to partner with me in God’s plan for Richmond’s inner city, please consider becoming a financial donor. Your support would allow me to offer loving, sustainable relationships that, through Christ, will change lives, the Church Hill community, and Richmond city for generations.
As a new year starts, if you are able to give, please mail donations to CHAT at 601 North 31st Street, Richmond, VA 23223. I will be continuing on part time with CHAT with a goal of $15,000 for the next year. To learn more about CHAT, visit www.chatrichmond.org. Thank you!
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