Here at 71Five VoTech, each class is made up of young people from every walk in life. From “A” students to young people with a much more difficult past. Recently in our latest class, one young man, over 6 foot tall, bearded and very strong came in and sat in the back. He never raised his eyes or spoke. In an effort to connect with him I would ask questions during class… With little result I may add! Then one day I connected with him in the hall. I asked him about his day ahead and he said, “Well, I have to meet with my parole officer due to a bad choice I made not too long ago.” I told him that I would be willing to talk to her and give her a favorable report. Since then, he has quietly chatted with me and even called me on the phone saying, ”Larry, I am sorry for missing class… What can I do to make it up?” He even answered a question recently, out loud, in class. I asked the class, “What would be a low priority in your life?” He spoke up and said. “Doing my laundry!” I fully agreed and we laughed. To go from sullen, quiet and cautious to connected is what we call a life change. As he continues to hear how special he is and how much God loves him, regardless of his past choices, I expect his life will continue to change.

 

Friends, this is how you are making a difference in the lives of young people. Thank you for your love, prayers and support.