"Living in a neighborhood plagued with gangs, drugs and violent crime...Urban Youth Ministry's programs gave us an alternative to being on the streets and kept us out of trouble. Meeting with our mentors and visiting their homes gave us a view of "another" kind of life. Jaime stated, "I saw where we came from, then went to my mentor’s home and saw a different side of things...her husband was always there."

Jaime and Sennetria's Story

Jaime (left) and her sister Sennetria (right) are two shining examples of how God is using Urban Youth Ministry (UYM) in the lives of at-risk youth attending our programs. Their story began over ten years ago at UYM's Kids Club where they were "regulars". Interacting with positive role models and participating in enriching activities contributed to their growth - both academically and spiritually. Additionally, each was paired with a volunteer mentor who encouraged and enforced principles they learned at UYM's Kids Club.

Understanding the importance of education, both girls remained in school - graduating from high school and then on to college. Jaime earned a BA in Economics, and received her MBA from Northern Illinois University. Sennetria recently received a BA in Business from Aurora University.