Nurturing and supporting the youth is a big part of our community involvement. The Lord told us that we were to let the little children come to Him for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven. We were asked by several people in the community to start an after school program for the Beach School kids, particularly for kids from needy and/or single parent households. Thus, The Kids’ VIP Programs were started. Its mission statement says it well: “Implement spiritual ecology by saving and protecting our natural resources – our children.

The Kids’ After School Program is perhaps the best known of the Kids’ VIP Programs. Now in its seventh year, this program provided an adult-supervised gathering place for kids during after school hours, where homework assistance and tutoring are available. One on one time with an adult, crafts and play constructively fill the afternoon hours. The program is held daily at the Beach Elementary School and we work closely with the teachers and administration to complement and support what the kids are learning in school.

Middle School Kids’ Incentives is several years old and encourages kids to work in community service projects while earning a little pocket money. Middle Schooler children are the most critical age group as they are susceptible to peer pressures such as gang involvement, stealing, using drugs, and early sex involvement. These incentives encourage an alternative lifestyle and foster responsibility.

A Support System for Teens was added to the VIP Programs shortly after we began. It supports teens who have been placed in the juvenile justice system but their case has not yet been adjudicated. This affords us an opportunity to work with them, their families, and the court. Sometimes the teens can be rehabilitated without sending them to a residential program or to prison. When we are able to effect this, everyone wins.

Photos: 1) Kids' V.I.P. Party. 2) Kids at the "Mullet Toss Fundraiser."