I Am, I Can, We Will
At camp
Almost two years ago, the men of Third Presbyterian invited the Men’s Clubs from Mt. Olivet Baptist and Memorial AME Zion Baptist Church to share breakfast at our church. Several months later Memorial AME Zion Baptist extended an invitation in return. Our discussions turned to ways that as communities of faith to strengthen our urban Rochester community.
Subsequent conversations and planning have taken place over the past 18 months. The result is a program called ‘I am, I can, We will’. It is positioned to work with young men ages 8-12 overall.
The overall objectives are simple: help young men succeed in life. We would host three events in the Southwest corridor of Rochester and invite youth ages 8 – 12. The events a once per month this summer on a Saturday from 10am – 2pm. There are speakers, motivational videos and just plain ‘give and take’ talk about how they can set goals and realize their potentials. There is a healthy mix of fun events as well as snacks and lunch.
So far approximately 30 youth have participated. We view that as success.
What’s next?
Our next event is Saturday August 16th at our UPT partner church Trinity Emmanuel Presbyterian. Once again there will be young men hoping for a fun time and a sharing time. We would welcome you as well.
The adult volunteers have benefitted in two ways: (1) fun and sharing with the youths and (2) meeting other men who share the same values and who also enjoy mixing fun and work in a positive manner.
Lastly, our thanks to the staff and volunteers who have helped us with this work.
For more information, click here for the full brochure:
I Am, I Can, We Will brochure