spring flowers
GOD Things Are Happening
2008 Spring Update
From The Teens
 
ErinERIN:  To this day, I still find it ironic that one simple act, one tiny ounce of curiosity, could change the course of my life - forever.
When I entered high school, I remember thinking, "MAN! These are going to be the BEST four years of my life!" Looking back on the last four years, I never would have guessed I would be in this place, writing this letter.
I came from a Baptist, "7th Heaven" family, but freshman year my parents pulled the "divorce card".  Life seemed over at 14 and I needed an escape. All it took was hearing people say "Alcohol relieves your stress" , to stealing that first sip, to becoming addicted.  Three simple steps.
My addiction soon grew to other things. I started hanging out with the wrong crowd. Then Christmas Eve of 2006 I faced a roadblock on my path to destruction. I was arrested for Public Intoxication and spent two months in out patient treatment. I was at a fork in the road and it was time to decide whether I would rise above and overcome everything or not.
A few months later, I attended a Christian camp called Pine Cove. The God I had lost touch with years earlier, reminded me that He had been knocking at my door all along. Finally, I let go of my anger and pride and welcomed Him back into my life. I had a spiritual awakening and realized God was all I needed, not substances. God would always be there to guide and lift me up; He would never let me down. Upon leaving the camp, I felt called to use my story to help and witness to others, which is where Livin It Loud comes in.
Eight months later, I am a "Baby Ruth" with the Pine Cove staff and will be spending five of the most incredible weeks of my life working as a counseling intern. I will never be proud of my past, but it has made me stronger and closer to the Lord.  I've learned the only way I did it was with the help of my friends, family, and loving support of Jesus Christ to get me through.
 
 
In This Issue
From the Teens
JTD Spring Retreat
Livin It Loud
Contact Us
 
Journey to Dream
6009 W Parker Rd.
Ste. 149, PMB 122
Plano, TX 75093
214.738.2989 ph
214.291.5578 fax
 
 
Journey to Dream exists to embrace the heart of a generation, to see lives transformed by God, and to inspire young people to abstain from destructive behaviors and live a life of significance. 
 
 
JTD 3rd Annual Retreat 
 
pinecove 2005Each year as an extension of our Livin It Loud program, JTD hosts a teen retreat where students get away for an incredible weekend with God.  This year, we're honored to have a dynamic pastor, Rod Stodghill, who will speak relevant truth into young peoples lives; amazing worship by Phillip Bleeker from the Village Church; and lots of fun games and outdoor activities.  Teens will have a chance to escape their stressful, technology-driven lives for a weekend at Sky Ranch.  This year students are excited about inviting friends,  many who have been affected by destructive behaviors. Unfortunately not every student can afford to go, which is why we need your help in sponsoring a teen for $125 or a group of teens in an amount best for you.  This is an amazing opportunity for young people to find freedom in Christ and to understand the life change that occurs when they find their identity in Him.  We'd love to take every teen that wants to attend.  If you can help, please send your donation by April 1, 2008! 
Contact Kim by April 1st if you have a teen you would like to send to the retreat. (214)738-2989.
 
Send your teen sponsorship to:
Journey to Dream
6009 W Parker Road , Ste,. 149, PMB122
Plano, Texas 75093
Livin It Loud 
 
LISD Task ForceThe Livin It Loud team continues to passionately share their message with the community.  The team was asked to perform for the LISD Safe & Drug Free Schools Task Force in February.  They did an outstanding job of communicating a message of hope and overcoming, while also presenting real life testimonies on the devastation substance abuse causes teens and families.  The team presented a new drama this year to schools, called "Bring Me to Life", and is currently developing a new monolog that walks through the life of a teen.    We continue to be amazed at not only the heart and passion these teens have for living free from destructive behaviors, but also the impact they have on so many lives.  We believe more than ever that a small group of convicted teens, living for Christ, have the ability to impact an entire generation!
 
 
We couldn't do this work without you and truly appreciate your support!! 
 
Ways you can continue to help:
 
  • Sponsor a teen or group of students to our 3rd Annual Teen Retreat. 
  • Continue supporting JTD, so teens can keep Livin It Loud!
  • A multipurpose facility where kids can participate in JTD programs weekly.  
  • A 26-passenger van to transport students to community outreach projects.  
  • And lots of prayers for the work God is doing in the lives of young people.

God Bless You,

Kim & Jody