Dear Family Member:
Through the years, God has blessed our lives with a close-up view of His loving-kindness and unending mercy. We say this from a personal as well as professional viewpoint.
Whether it has been the hundreds of times God has shown His powerful hand at work in the lives of our DAP clients or simply the answer to a whispered prayer regarding a problem that appeared too overwhelming for us to face – God has always ‘been faithful.’
And during the past few months, we have again witnessed our heavenly Father do His best work through human hands opened to serve others.
At a time in our lives when some people are telling us we should be ready to put up a hammock and rest in our backyard – God has surprised us with an expanded view of His call upon our lives. The bottom line is that He wants us to expand the work of DAP by launching the Oakwood University Overcomers Support Group.
This Group brings a ‘breath of fresh air’ to our lives. For years, we have had a longing desire to help college students ‘overcome’ drug addiction. In His own timing, God has answered our prayers. We wish we were about 20 years younger, however, we are privileged to share our 30 years’ experience with the students who need our love, understanding and patience.
During the weekly sessions, students present topics on subjects like Marijuana, Family Issues and Sex Addiction. Their classmates share experiences expressing how these topics affect them and their families. We see how sharing brings healing to individuals in the group. Some students want one-on-one time with us. As ‘parents’, we make ourselves available. Often, they just need a listening ear and words of encouragement. It’s a ‘tough world out there’ for young people!
A visitor, Kenny, Alabama A & M student, was invited to attend the group. After a few minutes into the session, he exclaimed, “I didn’t know this was this type of group. I will go and pick up my friend and I’ll be right back.” He returned shortly with Crystal. She told the group that she was glad to be with us. She went on to say that her mom was in jail because of drugs…she has no friends. The group embraced her assuring her that we are her new family. Both she and Kenny have been attending the meeting regularly.
Crystal also expressed the desire to attend Oakwood as a Nursing student. Cliff made an appointment for her to speak with the Office of Admissions. To make a long story short, with her high GPA and SAT scores, she qualifies for monies and the administration is making plans for her to attend Oakwood in the fall. She also wants to learn more about God. What an opportunity we have to witness to Crystal!
Last month at chapel, the students introduced our “Overcomers Support Group” to the entire Oakwood student body. They came up to the stage wearing DAP hats and bright multi-colored t-shirts that pleased the audience. The speakers were EnKose’ and Aisha. They let the audience know that the group helps with more than trying to break addictions . A person facing a host of other life challenges can benefit from Overcomers which provides God’s perspective on their suffering or struggles. We pray that more students will take advantage of the group. Flyers have been posted on campus, in the Oakwood Magazine. and other media networks.
Now here’s where your partnership is desperately needed. Our “Overcomers” program needs $1,000 a month to operate at the current level. This means that you can have a vital part in helping young people build a life of success and service to God while they are young.
Maybe, you have thought that God has used all your talents long enough. But just as we celebrated 30 years of ministry at DAP, God stepped in and said, “There’s more for the two of you to do – and I’ll provide you with the strength you need along with the money necessary.” As we have found through the years – when God decides to use you – He provides for you.
Will you please join us in this new and critical outreach at DAP? Will you give today $50 or $100 or even $1,000? Be a part of God’s Overcomer’s today. And thank you in advance.
Still on the journey with God,
