The rain was sprinkling outside and the soil grew soft. The children anticipate a trip outside. The freshness of the rain’s cleansing lingers in the air. The sound of little feet splashing in the newly found puddles. Smiles etched across their faces as they head for the park. (We call it “Redemption Park” because we see so many children transform from hiding and fear when they first arrive to joy and community as they grow and transform.) Some run for the slide, a few scatter for the swings. Some stay beside the staff member hoping for a game, or adventure, just about anything. Just about when the kids can stand it no longer, the adventure of the day is given. What creatures can you find that come out after the rain?
The kids’ eyes start scanning. Feet quickly moving throughout the park. The first discovery is made and one of our little boys picks up a slug. The girls scream at the slimy creature. The little boy laughs. The challenge is on. Who can find the most creatures. A little girl comes forward with many little rolly pollies in her hand. “Aren’t they cute”, she asks. The children gather round to look at the little creatures. Each child amazed, each child left with the challenge of seeing what they can find.
To many reading this story, it may be one that reminds you of your childhood, your children, or grandkids. Perhaps the thought of what a great reminder of youth will run through your mind. However, I would like you to draw in for a closer look and see how miraculous it is that the children of Acres of Hope - who have started off in places of homelessness, trauma, and other dysfunctional odds against them - anything that reveals a normalizing of their lives is a huge victory. For the child who use to live in a tent during a rain storm, having a safe place to live so that you can play in the rain instead of survive a storm is a big deal. It’s a big transformation. Discovering bugs to learn about them, is far different than seeking to keep bugs off your table or out of your bed at night. What the children are experiencing at Acres of Hope is amazingly beautiful.
Would you like to join Acres of Hope in seeing the lives of children transform? Are you gifted with the ability to rock a baby to sleep, teach children fun activities, or mentor a child as an Angel Grandparent? Well the perfect opportunity has arrived. Acres of Hope is in need of some childcare heroes. So glance below and see what you can do to help Acres of Hope children break the cycle of homelessness ... and their mothers too.
Morning and/or afternoon shifts are available, Monday thru Friday
For more information on how you can get involved email Chantel at chantel@acresofhopeonline.org
Or check out our volunteer opportunities at acresofhopeonline.org/volunteer