CDC Youth Ministry...
Middle School Ministry
Breakthrough Creative Arts
"I feel this program is a very wonderful program to join because you can learn a lot of great things like: dance, how to sing, and draw. This program can keep you out of a lot of trouble so you won't be in gangs or drug dealing. It is also a great program to join so that you can learn the right things in life about Jesus Himself who died on the cross for us. CDC will keep encouraging you in everything you do till you get there..." (Hutchins Middle School student)
As the sole afterschool provider at Hutchins Middle School, Central Detroit Christian offers training in dance, drama, art, gospel choir, financial literacy, and conflict resolution two days a week. By offering these volunteer-taught classes, CDC gives students an opportunity to develop their natural talents while keeping them off the streets in the dangerous afterschool hours. Each semester, the students showcase their arts, both visual and performance, for classmates, families, friends, and community.
In addition to the afterschool classes at Hutchins, there is opportunity for social interaction and fellowship on Friday afternoons.
Please pray that there would be opportunities for Hutchins students to continue to refine their skills as they move on to high school.
For more information, e-mail Tony McDuffy.
Afterschool Recreation
"I like coming to afterschool rec because it's fun to play games and run around with my friends... "
In response to the removal of physical education from the curriculum in many Detroit public schools, CDC began an afterschool recreation program two days a week for middle school students at Durfee school. After a brief snack and character lesson, Coach Nate leads students in basic warm-up exercises, instructional time in traditional sports, as well as the opportunity to play some schoolyard favorites, such as "octopus tag." The school has been excited for the opportunity for students to have physical education classes, and CDC is excited to meet a need in the community. Plus, it's a whole lot of fun!
Please pray that the afterschool program would be able to grow in its impact on the lives of the students in attendance.
Please also pray that it would be a gateway to impacting youth on the northwest side of our neighborhood!
For more information, e-mail Nate Richards.
Boys to Men
"The whole experience of Boys to Men was wonderful. Being able to interact with other males in your community is great." (Boys to Men participant)
"...I thank Tony for teaching me how to speak to a lady. And him helping me to develop my man skills." (another Boys to Men participant)
Boys to Men is a mentorship program CDC created to help young men in central Detroit deal with the unique issues they face at this point in history and geography. They attend a series of workshops addressing questions such as "What is a man?" and "What traits identify men of character?" The second major part of this program connects the youth with African-American mentors. Through dialogue and fellowship, the concepts the youth learn in workshops become realilty through mentorships. Thirteen men have joined us this spring, and we are truly grateful for their willingness to serve God by investing their time and sharing their lives with young men in our community.
Please pray that the lessons the young men learn will impact their lives and communities for years to come.
Please also pray for the raising up of more mentors.
For more information, e-mail Tony McDuffy.
High School Ministry
High School Club
"You are like a big brother to me. Any time I need something, you are there. It is hard to find a person that never looks down on you and always has a smile on their face. Thank you for everything." (Club participant)
Every other Friday night, the purple CDC bus makes the rounds throughout the neighborhood, picking up teenagers for high school club at Ford fieldhouse. Once there, youth have an opportunity for some free time on the basketball courts and hanging out with each other and a handful of adult volunteers, after which they move into a time of organized games, skits, music, and a message from youth director Mark VanAndel. Club is a safe, fun, environment for teenagers to enjoy each other and encounter the grace and love of Jesus Christ. This semester they also enjoyed a three-on-three basketball tournament, a girls' makeover party, and an evening of laser tag!
Please pray for more adults to volunteer their time building relationships with young people and advocating for them as they grow into adulthood.
Please pray for resources to provide our teenagers with opportunities that are not readily available in our community.
For more information, e-mail Mark VanAndel.
Overnight Camp
Each summer, youth involved in CDC programs have the opportunity to go to overnight camp for a week with CDC staff and volunteers. Middle school youth attend Kids Across America camp in Missouri, and high school youth attend Timber Wolf Lake YoungLife camp in northern Michigan. A week away from the city gives youth and their leaders a chance to relax, connect on a different level, have a good time, and generate momentum for the next school year!
For more information, e-mail Mark VanAndel.