from Worcester Area Mission Society

The youth we work with are over-scheduled, as are we....and while it might sometimes appear otherwise, the youth we work with also have many different interests/talents, as do we. Where will we find the time and the energy we need to model ourselves for them as people who worship together, learn together, serve together? How will we help them discover and celebrate the unique ways in which each of them is asked by God to use to his or her interests/talents not only for personal pleasure, but for making a difference in the lives of others?These are questions that many of us who work with youth in a church setting ask ourselves - sometimes, every day.

So, wouldn't it be amazing to find in one quick moment, in one central location, all the background material, in-house learning activities, hands-on service opportunities, speakers, etc., we need to help each young person connect the things he or she most enjoys, with something that makes a difference? Here it is: the first iteration of the WAMS Service Learning Program, an ongoing and evolving commitment to offer:

• An extensive listing of online, print, and video materials, and suggested activities addressing a variety of topics and interests, that you and the young people you work with can use in-house to support their learning/engagement process
• A diverse listing of organizations with immediately available opportunities for youth and adults to offer service
• A Speakers Bureau representing several local organizations - WAMS will help you arrange for speakers to visit and address your group
• A variety of WAMS-sponsored workshops, work days and/or other opportunities for youth (and adults) to engage in meaningful service

To find out more about about the program/ explore its offerings, please take a look at our updated website: www.wamsucc.org. View an informational powerpoint here. To ask questions or offer feedback, please email our new Director of Community Engagement, Mary Robbins, atmary@wamsworks.org.