Lauren and I had the opportunity to travel to Harrisburg and begin preparations for our new site this past week. We were initially met with a group of 12 people eagerly awaiting our arrival including members of Swatara Church of God as well as others, including the County Commissioner. The community of Harrisburg and surrounding townships are very excited to have welcome YouthWorks volunteers to the area.
Here are some of the wonderful community initiatives in Harrisburg that we are hopeful to be a part of. Joshua Group is an organization that seeks to provide support for at-risk youth primarily through educational and vocational opportunities. One way they do this is through Joshua Farm, an urban farm that grows and sells organic vegetables while providing educational, service and vocational opportunities to youth.
Paxton Ministries is a Christian ministry providing long term affordable housing, food and support to low income and disadvantaged adults. At Paxton Ministries, God has called them to be a home for the poor, the disadvantaged, the mentally challenged, and the downcast. Following this calling has not alway been easy, but God goes with them and before them in all they do. The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, Mission Central, The Salvation Army, Weed and Seed, and Allison Hill Community Ministry are other organizations that we hope to work with this summer. We met passionate people at work in each of these organizations and we are excited at the possibility of partnering with them in the future.
Lauren and I were also able to explore some evening activity possibilities, such as taking the Hershey’s Chocolate Factory tour and then we stopped by and walked through the new Civil War Museum. We also went to City Island, an island in the middle of the Susquehanna River with various attractions including a minor league baseball team. Lastly, we drove around the capital building.
Harrisburg is a lovely city with much to offer! We are excited about the possibility of serving alongside people in this community, but we need help. We need people to register for Harrisburg. Please pray that this YouthWorks site would come to fruition and that youth from around the country would experience the great ministry going on in Harrisburg!
