Dear Friend,   

BREAKTHROUGH is the word I would use to describe the Champions Christmas Party for our teens. Three young people have had major walls up for about three years now. They continue to come to our program, but rarely interact with anyone, never smile and act like they don't want to be there.

But something changed at the Christmas Party! They were like different kids! One boy regularly has an attitude and acts like he doesn't care about anything. The night of the party, he really connected with one of the volunteers and kept trying to get this volunteer's attention to watch him play basketball. He gave us hugs when he left and even though I could tell it was hard for him, he said "Love you," when he was leaving the party.

The other BREAKTHROUGH happened with two sisters who have been extremely tough. We made a few visits to their apartment and attempted to connect with them at their homes before the party. They came to the party and in the three years they have been coming to the Champions Program, we have never seen them smile. BUT THEY WERE ALL SMILES THAT NIGHT! The two sisters really connected with a few of the lady volunteers as they participated in a special girl's activity, making gingerbread houses and purses.

We're so GRATEFUL to have seen these very IMPORTANT AND CRUCIAL BREAKTHROUGHS happen! We believe they happened because the teens really felt how special they were. The whole night was just for them; the decorations, the stockings, the food, the 3 on 3 Tournament, the Break Dance Workshop and the Just for Girl's Activity.

                                        Champions Christmas Party Video

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdDoeCK_mlU

BREAKTHROUGH also happened at the Christmas Party for our young men (ages 18-30). We saw these men let their guards down. There was a very special, relaxed and family environment at this party. The men were truly GRATEFUL and expressed this openly and from their hearts, as you will see in the video below.

One of the toughest guys in the John DeShields Neighborhood came to the party. He comes to our Lunch Outreach periodically and when he does, he plays the "tough guy" role very well. He never disrespects us, but often makes fun of the other men who are there.

This time, his heart was open. He was sincere and EXTREMELY GRATEFUL for everything. He received a three gifts from the person who "ADOPTED" him for Christmas.

Video Link: https://vimeo.com/81863588

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LOVING East St. Louis

Rachel and the DREAM Center Team