by Cindy Jackson
What difference does YoungLives make in the life of a teen mom? Let me tell you…
Jasmine (not her real name) has come a long way since she first started with YoungLives, over 2 years ago. I remember praying for her each month in our Committee meetings and in separate prayer meetings as well, as she struggled with many issues related to her baby's father, the murder of a friend, conflicts over her baby's safety, and personal stress and discouragement. We've rejoiced in her accomplishments as well -- graduation from high school, studying to be a bank teller, finding work, enrolling in community college, even starting her own business! We were all so happy that she was able to go to camp last year. But the most encouraging news I've heard in a long while is that she is now attending an online Bible study for single moms, led by her YoungLives mentor.
It's true that teen moms face a long list of disadvantages and struggles: immaturity, lack of education, isolation, poverty, dysfunctional relationships, poor mental and physical health, to name just a few. But their greatest problem is their need for Christ. When a young mom gets to know a YoungLives mentor, she doesn't just get encouragement and a good counselor... she gets a friend who will show her how the love of God can truly change her life, if she will open her heart to Jesus.
With the beginning of 2021, we welcome Skylor Massie as our new Area Coordinator. Skylor has 27 years of experience as a counselor, teacher, and advocate for children, youth, and families. She has taught and mentored more than 200 youth over 17 years, and has successfully developed a tested curriculum for helping children grow in self-esteem and moral development. She is well-acquainted with the East Hills neighborhoods of Pittsburgh, because most of her work has been focused there.
Skylor told me, “My hope is that God will use me this year to connect young mothers with His son Jesus in innovative and creative ways ... I have great expectations for God to draw people hungry for God who are compelled to walk along side me, supporting the vision of YoungLives through prayer, mentoring, and with their finances. I’m expecting a mighty move of God!!”
Thank you for helping us reach out to teen moms. Please keep Skylor, our volunteers, and our teen moms in prayer.
