Christian Church, Christian faith, community outreach, Community service, local community, Picking up litter, young people,
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
Young people from the UCKG’s Victory Youth Group (VYG) took part in a community outreach event on Saturday 24 July in Enfield, helping to renovate Homesdale Tunnel Park. Their aim was to make a positive difference in their local community and help change negative stereotypes of young people, as part of a London-wide initiative.
The UCKG approached the local authorities everywhere it has established HelpCentres, arranging for a team of youths from the local VYG to undertake a task of benefit to the wider community.
Enfield Council recognises the importance of involving young people in the community and was keen to accept the offer. Working with Pavola Cabral and Marco Andrade of UCKG’s Community Outreach team, the council’s Parks and Open Spaces department arranged for 40 young people from VYG to help with rubbish clearance in Homesdale Tunnel Park.
Jay William, 18, who participated in the event in Enfield, said: “The community service was a great experience. It was different for me because it’s something that I don’t do on a daily basis. Picking up litter has made me think of the work that I give to others when I throw litter on the ground. It was good to come out of my comfort zone and try something new. I found it very enjoyable, especially knowing that I was giving something back and helping the local community.”
Marco Andrade added: “Youths are often blamed for causing trouble and disturbances in their local communities. Yet as we know in the VYG, many young people are really keen to make a positive impact on the communities in which they live. We hope this community outreach event will help to change attitudes toward young people.”
The VYG is the youth ministry of the UCKG HelpCentre, which works to help young people develop their full potential. The VYG started in the UK in 1996 and has been growing steadily with branches in many parts of the country. Over 1,300 young people attend the youth centres every week, sharing sessions that include practical teaching, fun and spiritual development.
ENDS
Note to editors:
UCKG is a Christian church and registered charity that offers a range of practical support activities alongside spiritual support and comfort. It reached the UK in 1995 and has gone from strength to strength, providing support and spreading the Christian faith. There are 36 UCKG HelpCentre branches in England and Wales.
For further information please contact the UCKG HelpCentre Press Officer via e-mail on press@uckgnew.org or call 020 7686 6033.
