We all know about wearing backpacks and how they've become quite popular and common in our society. Students particularly like using them for heavy books they have to tote to and from classes or the library or for carrying personal items especially when traveling by bicycle. But giving a warm hug? Really?
When the backpack is a gift full of useful items to take off to college or a first apartment, it feels like a great big warm hug to a young person who has had little support or celebration in the past. The students that ILYA (Independent Living for Young Adults) support who are graduating this year have faced challenges most of us cannot even imagine having in our lives. They've had to work hard to stay focused, to develop the skills that allow them to succeed despite the instability experienced even in the best foster care situations. And now they are aging out of foster care and entering an entirely new stage… having to take on adult responsibilities.
The ILYA Graduation Backpack and Pizza Party project lets them know we not only acknowledge their accomplishment but celebrate it. It's like a big hug! Please help us provide backpacks and the pizza party for these deserving young people. See Barbara Perry or Amy Barch during coffee hour every Sunday in May to donate what you can. You can also send checks to the church made out to “First U” with “Backpacks” on the memo line.