I know... you are asking yourself, "Why do I care about the fiscal year beginning?"
GREAT QUESTION! Look with me through the eyes of a person doing this ministry.
Meet Susan, An Area YoungLives Coordinator:
In the world of YoungLives, the fiscal year runs from October 1st- September 30th which is a fresh start and a new beginning even for budgets. This time of year, Susan, an area YoungLives Coordinator, is feeling the burden of fundraising $36,000 in order for her ministry to stay open. She has committed 20 hours a week to make sure teen parents experience Jesus. She spends her time recruiting and training at least 4 mentors so they can disciple about 2 teen mothers each. The impact of her ministry is far reaching and generational because among the 10 teen mothers, are their 12 children ages 3 months to 3 years old. Susan is spending about half her time organizing Club (party with a purpose) and Campaigners (bible study) for the teen parents and their children. Each Club and Campaigners has a meal and childcare so Susan is meeting with adults and business owners about donating meals, baby supplies and space for those meetings. She is coordinating about 12 childcare volunteers who she has personally trained and run through the background check process. Somewhere in her week, she will find generous adults who want to also donate towards her area budget. Yes, Susan, is doing a lot in her part time role to make sure teen parents hear the gospel and feel the incarnational love of Jesus. Susan needs our prayers and support because she represents YoungLives Coordinators everywhere.
Susan is the reason I do what I do as Director of YoungLives Global Development. My hope and prayer is that she would be the reason that you GENEROUSLY GIVE. Let's continue to spur on Susan and all the future Susans who love teen parents but may be overwhelmed by the thought of fundraising. Supporting Susan will only help ministry grow this fiscal year!