Crisp November afternoons invite us to begin thinking of Thanksgiving, and while I tried my hardest to “be creative” and write a Thanksgiving blog that would be different than your other reading choices this time of year, I’ve come to realize that it’s impossible. It’s impossible because, in the end, we need to be thankful. Our hearts crave it. So why shun this opportunity to say “thanks” to the people who make a difference, for the blessings we experience, for the pie we’re sure to eat, for our future successes and failures?
A rousing round of applause to the God who orchestrates the changing of seasons, both in nature and in our lives! We say can say “thanks, God,” for the triumphs and the heartache and the mundane moments that have made up the past year and will make up the next hour, the next day, and the next month. We can trust that all we encounter gives us the opportunity to experience the mystery of the grace and love of the Savior, who we have the opportunity to intimately know. In the end, that’s what life’s all about. That’s why we’re created. That’s why we exist – to praise Him, to make Him famous, to show gratitude with our lives by living out the love He’s shared with us.
As I think about some of the kids we work with here at Novo – kids like Ricardo and Ariel and Darius – I wonder what makes them say “thanks.” I wonder what I’d be thankful for if I were in their shoes. I’m not, but I could have been. I could be thankful that I live where I live or that I had the growing up experience I had, but then I realize that it all comes back to this – every human being on the planet can be thankful for the same thing. We can be overwhelmed with gratitude that the Creator of the Universe saw fit to reach past heaven’s boundaries and breathe life and love into our hearts. Our thankfulness and happiness no longer needs to be dependent on circumstances when we acknowledge that this earth-life is nothing in comparison to the praise-life to which He calls us.
So I’m thankful for this. I’m thankful that I’ve received this gift. I’m thankful that I experience it daily, even when I’m too stubborn or lazy or busy to acknowledge it. I’m thankful I get to spend time with kids like Ricardo, Ariel, and Darius who are still learning what all this amazing gift means and that I have the opportunity to speak it, live it, and share it with them. Come to think of it, I’m still learning, too. Thanks, God, for the little gifts that remind us of you. And thanks, God, for loving us enough to let us learn. Yes, God – thanks.
“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.” Psalm 100:4-5
What makes you say “thanks”? Leave a comment and let us know!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Lights On!
Probably one of the worst feelings EVER is to stub your toe in the middle of the night on the way to the bathroom. I’m not the only one who’s suffered this. I’m choosing to believe you can relate. If not, humor me and pretend you can.
But that’s what happens when it’s dark. It’s hard to see the obstacles that keep you from your ultimate destination. We might make it there fine, but we might not. Chances are, we’re going to get hurt. We need light. And darkness is so much bigger than a midnight trip to the bathroom or kitchen.
Here’s where my metaphor breaks down – when you’re walking through the house, it’s easy just to flip the light on. But when you’re an eight-year-old kid who is alone, afraid, hopeless, and in need of direction, it usually takes someone else bringing the light, believing in you and illuminating the way. Wow, sounds kinda like what Novo volunteers and supporters are doing almost every day of the week! (But you already figured that out, didn’t you?)
At Novo Ministries, we’re all about sharing light and that’s why we’re so excited to participate in the 11th annual Lights On Afterschool event, taking place on Thursday, October 21st. This national event celebrates and promotes afterschool programs that are “turning the lights on” for the kids in communities all across the United States.
We want you to help us celebrate the light that Novo is sharing with Oklahoma City’s inner-city kids by letting us know who “kept the lights on” for you growing up. If there’s someone who made a difference in your life, who spent time investing in you – why not give that person a call, send an email, or write a thank you note? And while you’re at it, we’d love to hear your “lights on” story too! Post a comment telling us about someone who made a difference for you.
Help Novo celebrate Lights On AfterSchool! Join us for an Open House!
When: Thursday, October 21st between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Where: Oak Grove Apartments, 3301 Southwest 17th Street.
R.S.V.P. to Sarah Hunnicutt at 405.664.3964 or shunnicutt@novoministries.org
But that’s what happens when it’s dark. It’s hard to see the obstacles that keep you from your ultimate destination. We might make it there fine, but we might not. Chances are, we’re going to get hurt. We need light. And darkness is so much bigger than a midnight trip to the bathroom or kitchen.
Here’s where my metaphor breaks down – when you’re walking through the house, it’s easy just to flip the light on. But when you’re an eight-year-old kid who is alone, afraid, hopeless, and in need of direction, it usually takes someone else bringing the light, believing in you and illuminating the way. Wow, sounds kinda like what Novo volunteers and supporters are doing almost every day of the week! (But you already figured that out, didn’t you?)
At Novo Ministries, we’re all about sharing light and that’s why we’re so excited to participate in the 11th annual Lights On Afterschool event, taking place on Thursday, October 21st. This national event celebrates and promotes afterschool programs that are “turning the lights on” for the kids in communities all across the United States.
We want you to help us celebrate the light that Novo is sharing with Oklahoma City’s inner-city kids by letting us know who “kept the lights on” for you growing up. If there’s someone who made a difference in your life, who spent time investing in you – why not give that person a call, send an email, or write a thank you note? And while you’re at it, we’d love to hear your “lights on” story too! Post a comment telling us about someone who made a difference for you.
Help Novo celebrate Lights On AfterSchool! Join us for an Open House!
When: Thursday, October 21st between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Where: Oak Grove Apartments, 3301 Southwest 17th Street.
R.S.V.P. to Sarah Hunnicutt at 405.664.3964 or shunnicutt@novoministries.org
Friday, October 15, 2010
Satisfy your Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler cravings and support Novo!
Starting November 2nd, the first Tuesday of every month at all OKC and Edmond Johnnie’s locations is Johnnie's Night for Novo Ministries! Tell your order taker that you’re supporting Novo Ministries, and a percentage of the cost of your food will go directly to supporting Novo!* You’ve gotta eat anyway, so why not start a Tuesday tradition and make a big difference while you’re at it?
Questions? Give us a call at 405.209.9765 or email vsherrer@novoministries.org
*Please note that you must tell the order taker you’re supporting Novo Ministries when you place your order – dine in, drive thru, carry out, or car hop.
Participating restaurants include all OKC and Edmond locations. For directions and addresses, check out
www.johnniesok.com
Questions? Give us a call at 405.209.9765 or email vsherrer@novoministries.org
*Please note that you must tell the order taker you’re supporting Novo Ministries when you place your order – dine in, drive thru, carry out, or car hop.
Participating restaurants include all OKC and Edmond locations. For directions and addresses, check out
www.johnniesok.com
Friday, October 1, 2010
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Novo Ministries Celebrates 5 Years of Change
Five Year Anniversary for Novo Ministries Proves it's Here to Stay
Novo Ministries Celebrates Five Years of Change
Oklahoma City – Novo Ministries is celebrating its five year anniversary of incorporation and charitable service to underserved, underesourced communities in Oklahoma City. Since its incorporation, Novo Ministries has reached out to hundreds of Oklahoma City’s children by connecting them with passionate, committed mentors, churches, and organizations.
“Novo” – a Latin word for change – has been the driving force of Novo Ministries for the past five years. Novo Ministries’ founder, Valerie Sherrer, has seen this change first-hand, not only within the organization, but also within the communities that Novo serves. Several of Novo’s current volunteers were once program participants, proving that the impact Novo Ministries and its volunteers has is lasting.
Currently, over 1500 children are being reached through Novo programming by more than 150 volunteers. Novo plans to continue working within its 17 current program sites and will continue expanding its impact to other locations in the greater Oklahoma City area.
Novo Ministries provides curriculum, consultation, program facilitation, and training to its partnering volunteers, churches, and organizations at no charge to them. Novo seeks to be a resource to its various partners as they reach out to their surrounding communities.
Five years later, the organization has evolved, but its mission remains the same – bringing positive change and making a positive, lasting impact on Oklahoma City’s underserved, underresourced communities.
Direct questions to 405-209-9765 or email vsherrer@novoministries.org
Novo Ministries is a non-profit organization that serves primarily inner-city, at-risk portions of Oklahoma City and its surrounding communities. Novo Ministries exists to reach, train, and mentor inner-city, underserved children and youth through important life- changing relationships. Our website can be found at www.novoministries.org
Novo Ministries Celebrates Five Years of Change
Oklahoma City – Novo Ministries is celebrating its five year anniversary of incorporation and charitable service to underserved, underesourced communities in Oklahoma City. Since its incorporation, Novo Ministries has reached out to hundreds of Oklahoma City’s children by connecting them with passionate, committed mentors, churches, and organizations.
“Novo” – a Latin word for change – has been the driving force of Novo Ministries for the past five years. Novo Ministries’ founder, Valerie Sherrer, has seen this change first-hand, not only within the organization, but also within the communities that Novo serves. Several of Novo’s current volunteers were once program participants, proving that the impact Novo Ministries and its volunteers has is lasting.
Currently, over 1500 children are being reached through Novo programming by more than 150 volunteers. Novo plans to continue working within its 17 current program sites and will continue expanding its impact to other locations in the greater Oklahoma City area.
Novo Ministries provides curriculum, consultation, program facilitation, and training to its partnering volunteers, churches, and organizations at no charge to them. Novo seeks to be a resource to its various partners as they reach out to their surrounding communities.
Five years later, the organization has evolved, but its mission remains the same – bringing positive change and making a positive, lasting impact on Oklahoma City’s underserved, underresourced communities.
Direct questions to 405-209-9765 or email vsherrer@novoministries.org
Novo Ministries is a non-profit organization that serves primarily inner-city, at-risk portions of Oklahoma City and its surrounding communities. Novo Ministries exists to reach, train, and mentor inner-city, underserved children and youth through important life- changing relationships. Our website can be found at www.novoministries.org
Friday, September 24, 2010
What's Your Story?
Stories resonate with people. We love a good story – about 3 little pigs, fairy-tale endings, Shakespearian tragedies, and ridiculous twenty-two minute sitcoms. I think stories resonate with people because, after all, we each have a story to tell. Stories are what string together the moments of our lives – the mundane, the exciting, the everyday moments that make up who we are. Some stories are nothing much (or at least we think so) and some stories are life-changing.
At Novo Ministries, we believe the greatest story of all is the story of God’s love for His creation – a love that stretches beyond heaven’s boundaries and meets us right where we are. And if you have been involved with Novo Ministries as a small group teacher, handing out snacks, attending a Novo training session, or have even just perused our website, you know this is the essence of Novo’s story. But within this greater narrative are the little stories that make up who we are. Our story wouldn’t exist without the chapters that you contribute. You are writing this story.
So if you’ve got a story about your experience with Novo, why don’t you share it with us? Maybe you’ve had the privilege of watching a child change from the inside out, believing on Jesus. Or maybe you’ve had a crazy Club experience. Maybe something happened at a training that totally changed your perspective. Or maybe you just ate one too many snacks one day at Bible Club . . .
If you have a story you want to share, we want to hear it! You are the authors of Novo’s story, so don’t be shy – email, post, or call us with your favorite Novo story! We’ll be posting some of them online and publishing them in other places as we share Novo’s story with others. Check out the details below:
3 Categories of Stories . . .
1) Humorous – tell us about the funniest memory you have.
2) Memorable – tell us about a time that you will never forget.
3) Quotable – tell us about something special that you heard someone say.
There will be a prize given for each category listed above.
Note: To protect the privacy and for the safety of the children with whom we work, please change the names of the children in any of the stories that you make public.
You’ve always got a story to tell, but this contest won’t last forever, so get writing!
Questions? Contact Valerie! (Email to: vsherrer@novoministries.org , or call at 405.209.9765)
At Novo Ministries, we believe the greatest story of all is the story of God’s love for His creation – a love that stretches beyond heaven’s boundaries and meets us right where we are. And if you have been involved with Novo Ministries as a small group teacher, handing out snacks, attending a Novo training session, or have even just perused our website, you know this is the essence of Novo’s story. But within this greater narrative are the little stories that make up who we are. Our story wouldn’t exist without the chapters that you contribute. You are writing this story.
So if you’ve got a story about your experience with Novo, why don’t you share it with us? Maybe you’ve had the privilege of watching a child change from the inside out, believing on Jesus. Or maybe you’ve had a crazy Club experience. Maybe something happened at a training that totally changed your perspective. Or maybe you just ate one too many snacks one day at Bible Club . . .
If you have a story you want to share, we want to hear it! You are the authors of Novo’s story, so don’t be shy – email, post, or call us with your favorite Novo story! We’ll be posting some of them online and publishing them in other places as we share Novo’s story with others. Check out the details below:
3 Categories of Stories . . .
1) Humorous – tell us about the funniest memory you have.
2) Memorable – tell us about a time that you will never forget.
3) Quotable – tell us about something special that you heard someone say.
There will be a prize given for each category listed above.
Note: To protect the privacy and for the safety of the children with whom we work, please change the names of the children in any of the stories that you make public.
You’ve always got a story to tell, but this contest won’t last forever, so get writing!
Questions? Contact Valerie! (Email to: vsherrer@novoministries.org , or call at 405.209.9765)
Thursday, September 16, 2010
What are you a fan of?
Are you a fan of fall? As the school year gets into full swing, fall feelings are in the air – football season will kickoff, summer vacations will be only memories, and the leaves will begin to change from their summer green to autumn’s red, orange, and golden hues.
And that’s what fall’s really all about – change: the change from one season to the next. Not quite hot, not quite cold. Change is so much bigger than just a season, though. For many facets of our lives, change is happening all the time, from clothes to jobs to the inside changes that we don’t see but are very real.
Novo Ministries is all about this inside-out change. While there are many areas where we could focus our energy and try to affect positive change in Oklahoma City, we believe that the catalyst for sparking transformation in our city begins by sharing the life-changing message of Jesus Christ with the children of our inner city. Often, they are the inheritors of life circumstances most of us couldn’t imagine and, in turn, pass this legacy on to their children. And while negative family patterns can take generations to reverse, the revolutionizing message of the Gospel – the greatest life-change of all – takes only a moment of clarity, when the overwhelming grace of God speaks to the heart of a child who is ready to listen and ready to believe. At Novo Ministries, we believe that, as Christ-followers, it’s our responsibility – our privilege – to share this message that has totally turned our lives around with these children. God’s grace is big enough to reach beyond the stained glass of a church, beyond human circumstances, beyond our limitations – God’s grace has been big enough for me. It’s big enough for them, too.
Yes, I guess you could say that at Novo Ministries, we’re fans of change. If you are involved with Novo Ministries as a volunteer, a financial supporter, have attended a training, pray for us, or have even just taken the time to read this blog, I suspect you’re a fan of change too. So if you’re a fan of the life-change that has taken place, the transformation that’s occurring right now, and potential for future heart revolution, why not show it? Become a fan of Novo Ministries on Facebook and let the world (or at least your friends list) know that you’re a fan of change!
Why you should fan us . . .
1) Did you read the above blog?!
2) We have a fun name.
3) Next week we’ll be giving away prizes to some of our Facebook fans!
Do you have questions or are you interested in learning more about Novo? Contact us at: vsherrer@novoministries.org
And that’s what fall’s really all about – change: the change from one season to the next. Not quite hot, not quite cold. Change is so much bigger than just a season, though. For many facets of our lives, change is happening all the time, from clothes to jobs to the inside changes that we don’t see but are very real.
Novo Ministries is all about this inside-out change. While there are many areas where we could focus our energy and try to affect positive change in Oklahoma City, we believe that the catalyst for sparking transformation in our city begins by sharing the life-changing message of Jesus Christ with the children of our inner city. Often, they are the inheritors of life circumstances most of us couldn’t imagine and, in turn, pass this legacy on to their children. And while negative family patterns can take generations to reverse, the revolutionizing message of the Gospel – the greatest life-change of all – takes only a moment of clarity, when the overwhelming grace of God speaks to the heart of a child who is ready to listen and ready to believe. At Novo Ministries, we believe that, as Christ-followers, it’s our responsibility – our privilege – to share this message that has totally turned our lives around with these children. God’s grace is big enough to reach beyond the stained glass of a church, beyond human circumstances, beyond our limitations – God’s grace has been big enough for me. It’s big enough for them, too.
Yes, I guess you could say that at Novo Ministries, we’re fans of change. If you are involved with Novo Ministries as a volunteer, a financial supporter, have attended a training, pray for us, or have even just taken the time to read this blog, I suspect you’re a fan of change too. So if you’re a fan of the life-change that has taken place, the transformation that’s occurring right now, and potential for future heart revolution, why not show it? Become a fan of Novo Ministries on Facebook and let the world (or at least your friends list) know that you’re a fan of change!
Why you should fan us . . .
1) Did you read the above blog?!
2) We have a fun name.
3) Next week we’ll be giving away prizes to some of our Facebook fans!
Do you have questions or are you interested in learning more about Novo? Contact us at: vsherrer@novoministries.org
Monday, August 23, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
That Special Someone
That Special Someone (Hint: It’s not who you think.)
Some of the most important people in my life didn’t have to be there. They made a choice. They decided to spend several hours every week coaching the basketball team or preparing lesson plans for Sunday School or just taking me out for coffee and conversation. They didn’t have to, but they did. Maybe you’ve had people in your life like this too. People who genuinely care and who genuinely want to pour themselves into others. Maybe you’re one of these people. Or maybe you’re not – yet.
Organizations like Novo cannot exist without volunteers and as we begin our recruiting drive for the upcoming school year, we thought we’d take a closer look at this not-so-rare breed called the volunteer and ask some questions about volunteering. Contemplate these questions and see where you fit in.
What is “volunteering”?
Did you know that the word volunteering is 400 years old? It originated in the 1600s and while the spelling may have changed, the definition hasn’t. According to Merriam-Webster, a volunteer is “a person who voluntarily undertakes or expresses a willingness to undertake a service; . . . one who renders a service or takes part in a transaction while having no legal concern or interest.” Even Wikipedia agrees: “Volunteering is the practice of people working on behalf of other or a particular cause without payment for their time and services.” For over 400 years, people have been giving of themselves because they want to – because they see a need and have responded to that need. And the needs of today – of 2010 – are great, but not insurmountable.
Why do people volunteer their time?
After conducting some face-to-face and online research, these are the answers we’ve come up with:
• Social Motivation:
- Volunteers appreciate the sense of community provided by team volunteering.
- They feel a social expectation to serve.
- There is a sense of affecting greater change through a group setting.
• Spiritual Reasons:
- God has commands or direction related to helping the widows, fatherless, or children.
- They have a sense of the eternal and want to make an eternal impact.
- They have a desire to share their faith or truths they believe are life-changing.
• Philanthropic Desire:
- Volunteers want to give to others.
- They can’t give financially, but can offer time.
- They sense a specific need and have a desire to meet that need.
• Requirement:
- Volunteers are sometimes court-ordered.
- They may be required to volunteer through school or work programs.
- Some parents require their children to volunteer.
• Physical Needs:
- Some volunteers have a desire to exercise.
- They want a creative outlet.
- They want to “get out of the house.”
• Possess a Particular Skill or Set of Skills:
- Some volunteers have special skills that someone else needs.
- They want to develop their skill set.
- They want to learn a new skill.
• Desire for Self-Improvement:
- Volunteers want to take the opportunity to receive training.
- The experience will look on a resume.
- They want a sense of personal accomplishment.
Maybe as you read this list, you found yourself falling into one or more of the above categories. What motivates you? Think about it.
Where do people volunteer?
Nearly 27 percent of America – 63.4 million adult Americans – volunteered this last year. More than one-third of all volunteers choose to give their time to churches and faith-based organizations.* People give their time to beautifying their communities, tutoring children, assisting at schools, helping at churches, providing food or shelter to the homeless, and a multitude of other causes.
What about you? Where do you volunteer? What passion motivates you to give of your time and abilities?
Volunteerism and Novo Ministries
Novo Ministries has recruited and equipped more than 115 volunteers this past school year. We are passionate about connecting caring, loving role models and mentors with inner-city boys and girls. We facilitated 17 program sites during the 2009-2010 school year and had more than 1500 children enrolled. Volunteers are more than just a help to this program – volunteers are the heart of this program, the driving force that makes impacting each of these 1500 children a reality. Without volunteers, we have a program. Novo exists, but we could not reach these boys and girls.
You might be surprised to find out, however, that as much as you are working to affect positive change in the lives of these boys and girls, that they are actually changing you. Take a moment and think about what current Novo volunteers say about our program:
“Not only will the kids you work with be changed, but the individual as well. And the life lessons you learn while here – you can use them anywhere.” – Brianna Gomez
“[Novo programs] show kids an alternative to the lifestyle they’re in. [They] provide opportunities for discipleship and relationship building.” – Elizabeth Axt
“Novo gives students the opportunity to interact with inner-city youth, where we wouldn’t have had [this opportunity] before.” – Vodi Ferrell
“My church is a very missions-minded church. With Novo’s ministry . . . we can reach students and impact the community near us, in addition to the passion we have for international missions. It is a wonderful complement to our missions focus.” – Misty Kitchell
“[Novo is unique because it] is not confined to a denomination or church. It is just a bunch of Christians who want to love and teach children.” – Caleb Martin
“I see these programs bringing hope to these children who are in hopeless situations. They are making a difference for eternity.” – Carolyn Shepherd
The needs are great, but not insurmountable. Life-change is happening, one child at a time – one volunteer, one passionate person at a time. Are you ready to be part of the adventure?
We are currently recruiting volunteers for the 2010-2011 school year. Whether you are called to teach, lead, or support – there is a role you can fill in our weekly programs.
Training will be offered periodically between now and early September. Contact our Volunteer Coordinator – Sarah Hunnicutt – at 405.664.3964 or shunnicutt@novoministries.org for updated dates and locations!
Want to check us out first? Come visit one of our upcoming Open House this summer!
July20th – NE OKC
Trinity Missionary Baptist Church
320 Northwest 79th Street
3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
August 3rd – Moore
Nottingham Square Apartments
2444 North Nottingham Way
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
August 4th – NW OKC
Metropolitan Baptist Church
7201 West Britton Road
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
August 11th – SW OKC
Oak Grove Apartments
3301 Southwest 17th Street
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
R.S.V.P. to Sarah Hunnicutt – shunnicutt@novoministries.org
Some of the most important people in my life didn’t have to be there. They made a choice. They decided to spend several hours every week coaching the basketball team or preparing lesson plans for Sunday School or just taking me out for coffee and conversation. They didn’t have to, but they did. Maybe you’ve had people in your life like this too. People who genuinely care and who genuinely want to pour themselves into others. Maybe you’re one of these people. Or maybe you’re not – yet.
Organizations like Novo cannot exist without volunteers and as we begin our recruiting drive for the upcoming school year, we thought we’d take a closer look at this not-so-rare breed called the volunteer and ask some questions about volunteering. Contemplate these questions and see where you fit in.
What is “volunteering”?
Did you know that the word volunteering is 400 years old? It originated in the 1600s and while the spelling may have changed, the definition hasn’t. According to Merriam-Webster, a volunteer is “a person who voluntarily undertakes or expresses a willingness to undertake a service; . . . one who renders a service or takes part in a transaction while having no legal concern or interest.” Even Wikipedia agrees: “Volunteering is the practice of people working on behalf of other or a particular cause without payment for their time and services.” For over 400 years, people have been giving of themselves because they want to – because they see a need and have responded to that need. And the needs of today – of 2010 – are great, but not insurmountable.
Why do people volunteer their time?
After conducting some face-to-face and online research, these are the answers we’ve come up with:
• Social Motivation:
- Volunteers appreciate the sense of community provided by team volunteering.
- They feel a social expectation to serve.
- There is a sense of affecting greater change through a group setting.
• Spiritual Reasons:
- God has commands or direction related to helping the widows, fatherless, or children.
- They have a sense of the eternal and want to make an eternal impact.
- They have a desire to share their faith or truths they believe are life-changing.
• Philanthropic Desire:
- Volunteers want to give to others.
- They can’t give financially, but can offer time.
- They sense a specific need and have a desire to meet that need.
• Requirement:
- Volunteers are sometimes court-ordered.
- They may be required to volunteer through school or work programs.
- Some parents require their children to volunteer.
• Physical Needs:
- Some volunteers have a desire to exercise.
- They want a creative outlet.
- They want to “get out of the house.”
• Possess a Particular Skill or Set of Skills:
- Some volunteers have special skills that someone else needs.
- They want to develop their skill set.
- They want to learn a new skill.
• Desire for Self-Improvement:
- Volunteers want to take the opportunity to receive training.
- The experience will look on a resume.
- They want a sense of personal accomplishment.
Maybe as you read this list, you found yourself falling into one or more of the above categories. What motivates you? Think about it.
Where do people volunteer?
Nearly 27 percent of America – 63.4 million adult Americans – volunteered this last year. More than one-third of all volunteers choose to give their time to churches and faith-based organizations.* People give their time to beautifying their communities, tutoring children, assisting at schools, helping at churches, providing food or shelter to the homeless, and a multitude of other causes.
What about you? Where do you volunteer? What passion motivates you to give of your time and abilities?
Volunteerism and Novo Ministries
Novo Ministries has recruited and equipped more than 115 volunteers this past school year. We are passionate about connecting caring, loving role models and mentors with inner-city boys and girls. We facilitated 17 program sites during the 2009-2010 school year and had more than 1500 children enrolled. Volunteers are more than just a help to this program – volunteers are the heart of this program, the driving force that makes impacting each of these 1500 children a reality. Without volunteers, we have a program. Novo exists, but we could not reach these boys and girls.
You might be surprised to find out, however, that as much as you are working to affect positive change in the lives of these boys and girls, that they are actually changing you. Take a moment and think about what current Novo volunteers say about our program:
“Not only will the kids you work with be changed, but the individual as well. And the life lessons you learn while here – you can use them anywhere.” – Brianna Gomez
“[Novo programs] show kids an alternative to the lifestyle they’re in. [They] provide opportunities for discipleship and relationship building.” – Elizabeth Axt
“Novo gives students the opportunity to interact with inner-city youth, where we wouldn’t have had [this opportunity] before.” – Vodi Ferrell
“My church is a very missions-minded church. With Novo’s ministry . . . we can reach students and impact the community near us, in addition to the passion we have for international missions. It is a wonderful complement to our missions focus.” – Misty Kitchell
“[Novo is unique because it] is not confined to a denomination or church. It is just a bunch of Christians who want to love and teach children.” – Caleb Martin
“I see these programs bringing hope to these children who are in hopeless situations. They are making a difference for eternity.” – Carolyn Shepherd
The needs are great, but not insurmountable. Life-change is happening, one child at a time – one volunteer, one passionate person at a time. Are you ready to be part of the adventure?
We are currently recruiting volunteers for the 2010-2011 school year. Whether you are called to teach, lead, or support – there is a role you can fill in our weekly programs.
Training will be offered periodically between now and early September. Contact our Volunteer Coordinator – Sarah Hunnicutt – at 405.664.3964 or shunnicutt@novoministries.org for updated dates and locations!
Want to check us out first? Come visit one of our upcoming Open House this summer!
July20th – NE OKC
Trinity Missionary Baptist Church
320 Northwest 79th Street
3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
August 3rd – Moore
Nottingham Square Apartments
2444 North Nottingham Way
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
August 4th – NW OKC
Metropolitan Baptist Church
7201 West Britton Road
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
August 11th – SW OKC
Oak Grove Apartments
3301 Southwest 17th Street
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
R.S.V.P. to Sarah Hunnicutt – shunnicutt@novoministries.org
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Think about this...
While your 11 year-old is getting excited about her first vacation to the beach or his trip to Six Flags, another child elsewhere in our city is trying marijuana for the first time.
While you are fixing dinner, think about the more than 4,500 children whose mom is in jail... and can't fix dinner for them.
While you and your child share a drink from Sonic, not too far away, a 12-year-old girl is involved in sexual activity and will become pregnant before the summer is over.
As you sit down to watch an old Disney movie with your 10 year-old, another child is sitting in jail thinking about what he stole and how long he will be incarcerated.
When your child sits down to a meal, puts on his clothes, or plays with her toys, think about the more than 40,000 other children in Oklahoma City who live in poverty.
While you and your child are enjoying shopping at the mall, another 10 year old is joining a local gang.
In another part of town (or maybe even closer than you think) it's a very different world for those children who aren't your children...
Someday, these children who aren't yours will grow up. Many will never have realized their full potential or become a contributing, productive member of society. Some will be in jail, on welfare, at the City Rescue Mission, on the run, or even dead. Others will break the cycle of desperation, destruction, and devastation. But most will not break the cycle of poor choices and self-destructive behavior without intervention. Familial, societal, and cultural trends are influencing our children and our communities. We must counteract the trends that are contrary to Biblical principles and devastating to the lives they affect. These inner-city children need someone who will introduce them to Jesus Christ - the One who really changes lives. They need someone who will stick around and show them, teach them what it means to lead a changed life and follow God. The involvement of a loving, caring mentor who will challenge, encourage, and motivate them to lead a changed life can make all the difference in the world. You can get involved today. You can give. You can pray. You can volunteer. YOU can make a difference.
Ask yourself, what will you do this summer to make a difference for the children who aren't your children?
While you are fixing dinner, think about the more than 4,500 children whose mom is in jail... and can't fix dinner for them.
While you and your child share a drink from Sonic, not too far away, a 12-year-old girl is involved in sexual activity and will become pregnant before the summer is over.
As you sit down to watch an old Disney movie with your 10 year-old, another child is sitting in jail thinking about what he stole and how long he will be incarcerated.
When your child sits down to a meal, puts on his clothes, or plays with her toys, think about the more than 40,000 other children in Oklahoma City who live in poverty.
While you and your child are enjoying shopping at the mall, another 10 year old is joining a local gang.
In another part of town (or maybe even closer than you think) it's a very different world for those children who aren't your children...
Someday, these children who aren't yours will grow up. Many will never have realized their full potential or become a contributing, productive member of society. Some will be in jail, on welfare, at the City Rescue Mission, on the run, or even dead. Others will break the cycle of desperation, destruction, and devastation. But most will not break the cycle of poor choices and self-destructive behavior without intervention. Familial, societal, and cultural trends are influencing our children and our communities. We must counteract the trends that are contrary to Biblical principles and devastating to the lives they affect. These inner-city children need someone who will introduce them to Jesus Christ - the One who really changes lives. They need someone who will stick around and show them, teach them what it means to lead a changed life and follow God. The involvement of a loving, caring mentor who will challenge, encourage, and motivate them to lead a changed life can make all the difference in the world. You can get involved today. You can give. You can pray. You can volunteer. YOU can make a difference.
Ask yourself, what will you do this summer to make a difference for the children who aren't your children?
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Support From Within Our Community
Novo Ministries appreciates the support and partnership of many individuals, schools, apartments, churches, and other community entities in the greater Oklahoma City area. We are excited about the difference that our collaborative efforts can have on inner-city communities. Lee Roland has been a partner and supporter of this organization for many years. Lee is the principal of Tulakes Elementary - one of our largest program sites. The enrollment at Tulakes is more than 160 children in our weekly program. Lee not only supports Novo Ministries through his partnership as Principal of Tulakes, but he also is currently serving as the chairman of the Novo Ministries' Board of Directors. We are grateful for his role as principal as well as board chairman. Thank you, Lee, for your vital support and dedicated leadership!
A few weeks ago Principal Roland shared some of his thoughts about the impact of our organization:
“As both a principal of a local elementary school and the chairman of the Novo Ministries Board of Directors, I want to strongly encourage you to consider supporting this fine organization. Novo Ministries is a local, non-profit organization committed to making a difference in the lives of inner-city boys and girls. Our mission is accomplished through connecting caring, passionate individuals with at-risk, under-served children through weekly after-school programs. I have known and worked with Valerie Sherrer, Founder, for more than 11 years. She is [an] amazing young lady who has demonstrated a willingness to do whatever it takes to impact these needy children. She and her husband are both dedicated to mobilizing like-minded individuals to provide healthy, positive role models and much needed mentoring. Weekly, a Novo Ministries’ team comes to my school, Tulakes Elementary, and leads an after-school program. Frequently, more than 100 children are in attendance. Many of the children who come to this program have challenges in their life and home including everything from sibling gang involvement, substance abuse, academic struggles, criminal activity, poor housing options, teen pregnancy, to incarcerated parents and more. As a principal, I am always looking for programs that will promote healthy behavior, positive character development, and good life choices. Novo Ministries gives these children the opportunity to interact with adults who love them and will mentor them to success in life …”
Impacting the hearts and lives of inner-city children, promoting real life-change, and encouraging positive character development are key elements in the focus of our organization and its programming. We are grateful for the support of Lee Roland and others from our community which make it possible for us to accomplish our mission!
A few weeks ago Principal Roland shared some of his thoughts about the impact of our organization:
“As both a principal of a local elementary school and the chairman of the Novo Ministries Board of Directors, I want to strongly encourage you to consider supporting this fine organization. Novo Ministries is a local, non-profit organization committed to making a difference in the lives of inner-city boys and girls. Our mission is accomplished through connecting caring, passionate individuals with at-risk, under-served children through weekly after-school programs. I have known and worked with Valerie Sherrer, Founder, for more than 11 years. She is [an] amazing young lady who has demonstrated a willingness to do whatever it takes to impact these needy children. She and her husband are both dedicated to mobilizing like-minded individuals to provide healthy, positive role models and much needed mentoring. Weekly, a Novo Ministries’ team comes to my school, Tulakes Elementary, and leads an after-school program. Frequently, more than 100 children are in attendance. Many of the children who come to this program have challenges in their life and home including everything from sibling gang involvement, substance abuse, academic struggles, criminal activity, poor housing options, teen pregnancy, to incarcerated parents and more. As a principal, I am always looking for programs that will promote healthy behavior, positive character development, and good life choices. Novo Ministries gives these children the opportunity to interact with adults who love them and will mentor them to success in life …”
Impacting the hearts and lives of inner-city children, promoting real life-change, and encouraging positive character development are key elements in the focus of our organization and its programming. We are grateful for the support of Lee Roland and others from our community which make it possible for us to accomplish our mission!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Testimony from a Parent
One of the goals of the ministry is to give the children of our inner city opportunities to become leaders and positive role models within society and learn to interact with other children their age. We strive to support the local church and provide children with an environment that can connect them with a local church that could further their training and discipleship. Often, we have parents comment to our staff and volunteers how this ministry is affecting their children, and even their own lives. Here is one such testimony.
"It really has been a good experience to have my children involved in Bible Club. It is nice that our children can go and [socialize] with others in a church like setting. Since we just moved from Texas and do not know much about OKC, it is nice to have such helpful and nice teachers to help our children learn about God and adjust to getting to know more children." - Scott Fleck and Kimberly Williams
"It really has been a good experience to have my children involved in Bible Club. It is nice that our children can go and [socialize] with others in a church like setting. Since we just moved from Texas and do not know much about OKC, it is nice to have such helpful and nice teachers to help our children learn about God and adjust to getting to know more children." - Scott Fleck and Kimberly Williams
Monday, April 19, 2010
Challenges can be learning opportunities...
Problems and challenges constantly arise during our weekly programs. While these issues are difficult to deal with we still know that God can use every “challenge” for His good. Recently, Katherine Hedglen, Community Liaison, was involved in one of these amazing opportunities.
"Micha and LaQuisha are both on the same "small group". Often, they don't get along. Last week, the two girls got into a fight. Both were sent to time out to cool down and work through the problem. In time out, both girls claimed the other started the fight. We talked about some different solutions for when someone starts trouble with us. We settled on several alternate possibilities - all agreeing that the wrong answer was to begin fighting.
However, the moment Micha thought I was not looking, she left her chair and attacked LaQuisha again. LaQuisha refused to fight her. I was very excited to see LaQuisha applying some very difficult things that we had been talking about.
This week, Micha was back. She stayed behind after large group to ask what would happen if someone chose not to believe on Jesus for salvation. I asked her what she thought, and she answered very carefully. It seems that she had been thinking about this question recently. We talked about sin, God's punishment for sin, and how believing on Jesus was the only way to avoid God's punishment. Micha wanted to think about our conversation and talk with me some more next week.
I have been really excited to see what God is doing in her life these past few weeks. It seems that God sometimes uses difficult times in lives to lead people to him. Pray that God is doing just that with Micha right now!"
"Micha and LaQuisha are both on the same "small group". Often, they don't get along. Last week, the two girls got into a fight. Both were sent to time out to cool down and work through the problem. In time out, both girls claimed the other started the fight. We talked about some different solutions for when someone starts trouble with us. We settled on several alternate possibilities - all agreeing that the wrong answer was to begin fighting.
However, the moment Micha thought I was not looking, she left her chair and attacked LaQuisha again. LaQuisha refused to fight her. I was very excited to see LaQuisha applying some very difficult things that we had been talking about.
This week, Micha was back. She stayed behind after large group to ask what would happen if someone chose not to believe on Jesus for salvation. I asked her what she thought, and she answered very carefully. It seems that she had been thinking about this question recently. We talked about sin, God's punishment for sin, and how believing on Jesus was the only way to avoid God's punishment. Micha wanted to think about our conversation and talk with me some more next week.
I have been really excited to see what God is doing in her life these past few weeks. It seems that God sometimes uses difficult times in lives to lead people to him. Pray that God is doing just that with Micha right now!"
Friday, April 9, 2010
Novo Ministries launches program for kids in Oklahoma City
In 2004, Valerie Sherrer asked to start a Bible club at some of the Oklahoma City Housing Authority’s community centers.
She saw it as a small project and a way to impact the lives of children from at-risk and under-resourced communities.
"I knew there were kids that had needs for mentors, and I wanted to give the opportunity and help facilitate that,” said Sherrer, an Oklahoma City native. Since then, her ministry has taken off. She’s started her own nonprofit organization. She’s facilitated weekly programming activities at 17 sites throughout the metro area. And last week, she launched an after-school program at the Oak Grove Housing Development.
"I’m just absolutely excited to be here and with these kids every day. I know we will get positive results,” Sherrer said as more than 45 kids registered for the program. Brightly colored posters lined the community center’s walls, and areas were designated for reading, tutoring, art and snacks.
The housing authority asked Sherrer and her staff at Novo Ministries to develop an after-school and summer program called the Community Impact Initiative. It is a pilot program funded by the housing authority and provides Oak Grove children with three hours of after-school care and 7 ½ hours of summer programming. "I personally love the Oak Grove community and the families that are out there,” said Sherrer, Novo Ministries’ founder and development director. "When (the initiative) was handed to us, I decided whatever I could do, I’m going to do it.”
Since December, Sherrer has worked 60 hours a week, crafted the program’s curriculum and hired three employees to staff the initiative. The schedule for each day is a bit different and includes theme days, games, guided learning, tutoring, activity stations, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and faith-based activities, Sherrer said.
Juli Aguirre, 10, has attended Novo’s Friday Bible clubs for six years and said she’s excited to come every day. She enjoys the Bible stories, snacks, prayers and teachers. Her friend, Thalia DeLaRosa, 9, said she likes drawing and doing arts and crafts with the "fun” teachers. She’s also looking forward to getting help on her homework, so she can do better on tests at school, she said.
Frank Miller, housing authority family housing asset manager, said Novo Ministries has had a large impact on the Oak Grove community. "We can’t quantify and say graffiti or juvenile crime in our area is down, but I can almost assure you that Novo has had a profound effect on our children in those areas,” Miller said.
The program reaches out to children age 4 to 12 and if it goes well, the housing authority would like to expand the initiative to all housing authority sites, said Mark Gillett, housing authority assistant executive director of planning and development. However, the expansion is also contingent on funding, about $50,000 per site. "(Novo Ministries is) very organized, committed to what they’re going to do and the time they’re going to spend there,” said Melanie Buckley, housing authority assistant executive director of operations. "For years they came on a volunteer basis and established relationships with kids,” she said.
She saw it as a small project and a way to impact the lives of children from at-risk and under-resourced communities.
"I knew there were kids that had needs for mentors, and I wanted to give the opportunity and help facilitate that,” said Sherrer, an Oklahoma City native. Since then, her ministry has taken off. She’s started her own nonprofit organization. She’s facilitated weekly programming activities at 17 sites throughout the metro area. And last week, she launched an after-school program at the Oak Grove Housing Development.
"I’m just absolutely excited to be here and with these kids every day. I know we will get positive results,” Sherrer said as more than 45 kids registered for the program. Brightly colored posters lined the community center’s walls, and areas were designated for reading, tutoring, art and snacks.
The housing authority asked Sherrer and her staff at Novo Ministries to develop an after-school and summer program called the Community Impact Initiative. It is a pilot program funded by the housing authority and provides Oak Grove children with three hours of after-school care and 7 ½ hours of summer programming. "I personally love the Oak Grove community and the families that are out there,” said Sherrer, Novo Ministries’ founder and development director. "When (the initiative) was handed to us, I decided whatever I could do, I’m going to do it.”
Since December, Sherrer has worked 60 hours a week, crafted the program’s curriculum and hired three employees to staff the initiative. The schedule for each day is a bit different and includes theme days, games, guided learning, tutoring, activity stations, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and faith-based activities, Sherrer said.
Juli Aguirre, 10, has attended Novo’s Friday Bible clubs for six years and said she’s excited to come every day. She enjoys the Bible stories, snacks, prayers and teachers. Her friend, Thalia DeLaRosa, 9, said she likes drawing and doing arts and crafts with the "fun” teachers. She’s also looking forward to getting help on her homework, so she can do better on tests at school, she said.
Frank Miller, housing authority family housing asset manager, said Novo Ministries has had a large impact on the Oak Grove community. "We can’t quantify and say graffiti or juvenile crime in our area is down, but I can almost assure you that Novo has had a profound effect on our children in those areas,” Miller said.
The program reaches out to children age 4 to 12 and if it goes well, the housing authority would like to expand the initiative to all housing authority sites, said Mark Gillett, housing authority assistant executive director of planning and development. However, the expansion is also contingent on funding, about $50,000 per site. "(Novo Ministries is) very organized, committed to what they’re going to do and the time they’re going to spend there,” said Melanie Buckley, housing authority assistant executive director of operations. "For years they came on a volunteer basis and established relationships with kids,” she said.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Reaching Our Inner City
Each month, Novo Ministries offers the "Reaching Our Inner City" training. This training helps individuals better understand the inner-city culture, motivators, and influencers. Statistics and testimonials are shared to explain the realities facing our inner-city children and communities. This 6-hour training has two parts - "The Environment" and "The People". This training can greatly improve the understanding and effectiveness of anyone involved or interested in reaching the people of our inner city.
Our City
Understanding the Inner City
What's Hot and What's Not
Education
Gangs
Working with Latinos and Blacks
Developing Relationships with Inner-City Children
Communicating with Inner-City Children
Working with Parents
Casting a Vision Where There Isn't One
Recently, Audra King, a high school teacher at Christian Heritage Academy, attended the ROIC training and shared with us why she came and what she learned:
Contact us today to find out about the next ROIC Training and see how you can get signed up!
Sessions are as follows:
Our City
Understanding the Inner City
What's Hot and What's Not
Education
Gangs
Working with Latinos and Blacks
Developing Relationships with Inner-City Children
Communicating with Inner-City Children
Working with Parents
Casting a Vision Where There Isn't One
Recently, Audra King, a high school teacher at Christian Heritage Academy, attended the ROIC training and shared with us why she came and what she learned:
"I came to the Novo ROIC training because I want to reach people from all kinds of backgrounds and walks of life. Although I have worked in several ministry situations, I did not know how to "bridge the gap" between myself and those in the inner city. In fact, the idea of engaging someone from the inner city was pretty intimidating to me! The information I gained at the Novo training was not only invaluable for myself, but as a teacher at a Christian high school, I hope to use it to challenge and equip my students to effectively reach those around us."
Contact us today to find out about the next ROIC Training and see how you can get signed up!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Something has to change...
*Every day in Oklahoma 147 babies are born – 6 of these are born to children – that’s 2,190 babies born to mothers under 18 years of age each year.
*Every day in Oklahoma 171 allegations of serious child abuse and/or neglect are investigated – 35 of which are confirmed to be abuse and/or neglect – that’s 12,775 confirmed cases of abuse and/or neglect each year.
*Every day in Oklahoma 59 children are arrested for crime – 2 of those are for a “violent” crime, such as rape or murder – that’s 730 children arrested each year for violent crime.
You can help bring that change!
Novo Ministries is striving to bring change to the lives of inner-city girls and boys, but we can’t do it alone. We want to partner with like-minded churches and individuals to impact these communities. Currently, we have over 100 volunteers serving with us but we need SO many more! We need individuals that have a vision, a passion, and a burden to reach at-risk boys and girls who live in under-resourced communities and who may have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ! How can these children experience genuine life change without hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ? These children could one day become one of the statistics that you see above - IF they don’t hear the truth... please DON’T let that happen!
We are asking you to not only become involved in our weekly after-school programs, but to also become committed to reaching the children of our inner city for Christ. We need volunteers now! We have set some dates in the following months in which we are welcoming visitors to come and view what we do on a weekly basis. Below are listed several dates and locations which we hope that you will take advantage of to come see what God is enabling us to do!
Open House Dates and Locations
Tulakes Elementary – April 22nd
Sooner Haven Apartments – April 28th
Britton Courtyards Apartments – May 5th
Note: Due to safety and security issues, you must contact us to sign up in order to attend these events.
Please let us know if you would like to receive additional information regarding these events. If you have any questions feel free to contact Valerie Sherrer (Development Director) at vsherrer@novoministries.org or call 405.209.9765
*Every day in Oklahoma 171 allegations of serious child abuse and/or neglect are investigated – 35 of which are confirmed to be abuse and/or neglect – that’s 12,775 confirmed cases of abuse and/or neglect each year.
*Every day in Oklahoma 59 children are arrested for crime – 2 of those are for a “violent” crime, such as rape or murder – that’s 730 children arrested each year for violent crime.
You can help bring that change!
Novo Ministries is striving to bring change to the lives of inner-city girls and boys, but we can’t do it alone. We want to partner with like-minded churches and individuals to impact these communities. Currently, we have over 100 volunteers serving with us but we need SO many more! We need individuals that have a vision, a passion, and a burden to reach at-risk boys and girls who live in under-resourced communities and who may have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ! How can these children experience genuine life change without hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ? These children could one day become one of the statistics that you see above - IF they don’t hear the truth... please DON’T let that happen!
We are asking you to not only become involved in our weekly after-school programs, but to also become committed to reaching the children of our inner city for Christ. We need volunteers now! We have set some dates in the following months in which we are welcoming visitors to come and view what we do on a weekly basis. Below are listed several dates and locations which we hope that you will take advantage of to come see what God is enabling us to do!
Open House Dates and Locations
Tulakes Elementary – April 22nd
Sooner Haven Apartments – April 28th
Britton Courtyards Apartments – May 5th
Note: Due to safety and security issues, you must contact us to sign up in order to attend these events.
Please let us know if you would like to receive additional information regarding these events. If you have any questions feel free to contact Valerie Sherrer (Development Director) at vsherrer@novoministries.org or call 405.209.9765
*Every day in Oklahoma 147 babies are born – 6 of these are born to children – that’s 2,190 babies born to mothers under 18 years of age each year.
*Every day in Oklahoma 171 allegations of serious child abuse and/or neglect are investigated – 35 of which are confirmed to be abuse and/or neglect – that’s 12,775 confirmed cases of abuse and/or neglect each year.
*Every day in Oklahoma 59 children are arrested for crime – 2 of those are for a “violent” crime, such as rape or murder – that’s 730 children arrested each year for violent crime.
You can help bring that change!
Novo Ministries is striving to bring change to the lives of inner-city girls and boys, but we can’t do it alone. We want to partner with like-minded churches and individuals to impact these communities. Currently, we have over 100 volunteers serving with us but we need SO many more! We need individuals that have a vision, a passion, and a burden to reach at-risk boys and girls who live in under-resourced communities and who may have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ! How can these children experience genuine life change without hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ? These children could one day become one of the statistics that you see above -IF they don’t hear the truth... please DON’T let that happen!
We are asking you to not only become involved in our weekly after-school programs, but to also become committed to reaching the children of our inner city for Christ. We need volunteers now! We have set some dates in the following months in which we are welcoming visitors to come and view what we do on a weekly basis. Below are listed several dates and locations which we hope that you will take advantage of to come see what God is enabling us to do!
Open House Dates and Locations
Tulakes Elementary – April 22nd
Sooner Haven Apartments – April 28th
Britton Courtyards Apartments – May 5th
Note: Due to safety and security issues, you must contact us to sign up in order to attend these events.
Please let us know if you would like to receive additional information regarding these events. If you have any questions feel free to contact Valerie Sherrer (Development Director) at vsherrer@novoministries.org or call 405.209.9765
*Every day in Oklahoma 171 allegations of serious child abuse and/or neglect are investigated – 35 of which are confirmed to be abuse and/or neglect – that’s 12,775 confirmed cases of abuse and/or neglect each year.
*Every day in Oklahoma 59 children are arrested for crime – 2 of those are for a “violent” crime, such as rape or murder – that’s 730 children arrested each year for violent crime.
You can help bring that change!
Novo Ministries is striving to bring change to the lives of inner-city girls and boys, but we can’t do it alone. We want to partner with like-minded churches and individuals to impact these communities. Currently, we have over 100 volunteers serving with us but we need SO many more! We need individuals that have a vision, a passion, and a burden to reach at-risk boys and girls who live in under-resourced communities and who may have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ! How can these children experience genuine life change without hearing the gospel of Jesus Christ? These children could one day become one of the statistics that you see above -IF they don’t hear the truth... please DON’T let that happen!
We are asking you to not only become involved in our weekly after-school programs, but to also become committed to reaching the children of our inner city for Christ. We need volunteers now! We have set some dates in the following months in which we are welcoming visitors to come and view what we do on a weekly basis. Below are listed several dates and locations which we hope that you will take advantage of to come see what God is enabling us to do!
Open House Dates and Locations
Tulakes Elementary – April 22nd
Sooner Haven Apartments – April 28th
Britton Courtyards Apartments – May 5th
Note: Due to safety and security issues, you must contact us to sign up in order to attend these events.
Please let us know if you would like to receive additional information regarding these events. If you have any questions feel free to contact Valerie Sherrer (Development Director) at vsherrer@novoministries.org or call 405.209.9765
Friday, March 26, 2010
Making Good and Right Choices
Jose, an eight-year-old Hispanic boy, is just one child whose life has been touched. Along with his siblings, he has been attending one of our programs at the Oak Grove Housing Development for several years. He has always been an energetic little guy, but lately he has been getting into more trouble, making some bad choices, and having some bad attitudes. Our program volunteers have been concerned for him since he has a tendency to follow others, even if they are making wrong choices. Although Jose is young, this tendency of his could get him into a lot of trouble later on down the road.
One week, Jose stayed behind after large group to talk with one of the program staff. Jose asked, "How can I do what's right when I want to do what my friends are doing and they are doing something wrong?" The staff member was able to share with him that it is important to make the right choices, even though other people are doing what is wrong. She encouraged him to stop being friends with the ones who are making bad choices and to find friends who will help him to make better choices.
It is exciting to see that, even at such a young and impressionable age, Jose is already thinking about the choices he is making. This is just one example of how Novo Ministries has had an influence on one of the children in the neighborhoods we serve. Our hope is that Jose will grow up to be a responsible adult, one who knows how to make right choices, regardless of what others in his life choose to do. We know that this same difference is being made in many more lives of the children with whom we work.
Jose, an eight-year-old Hispanic boy, is just one child whose life has been touched. Along with his siblings, he has been attending one of our programs at the Oak Grove Housing Development for several years. He has always been an energetic little guy, but lately he has been getting into more trouble, making some bad choices, and having some bad attitudes. Our program volunteers have been concerned for him since he has a tendency to follow others, even if they are making wrong choices. Although Jose is young, this tendency of his could get him into a lot of trouble later on down the road.
One week, Jose stayed behind after large group to talk with one of the program staff. Jose asked, "How can I do what's right when I want to do what my friends are doing and they are doing something wrong?" The staff member was able to share with him that it is important to make the right choices, even though other people are doing what is wrong. She encouraged him to stop being friends with the ones who are making bad choices and to find friends who will help him to make better choices.
It is exciting to see that, even at such a young and impressionable age, Jose is already thinking about the choices he is making. This is just one example of how Novo Ministries has had an influence on one of the children in the neighborhoods we serve. Our hope is that Jose will grow up to be a responsible adult, one who knows how to make right choices, regardless of what others in his life choose to do. We know that this same difference is being made in many more lives of the children with whom we work.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Community Impact Initiative Starting Soon
Novo Ministries has been providing weekly and summer programming for elementary-age children living within the Oklahoma City Housing Authority’s four family housing developments in the greater Oklahoma City area since the summer of 2004.
The Oklahoma City Housing Authority believes that the programming and mentorship provided by Novo Ministries’ staff and volunteers have greatly impacted the children of their developments. In December 2009, the Housing Authority asked Novo Ministries to develop and pilot a new initiative to provide daily programming at one of the four family public housing developments. This new initiative will be completely funded by the Housing Authority through grant monies and their general operating budget.
On March 29th as part of the new “Community Impact Initiative” Novo Ministries will begin daily programming at the Oak Grove Community Center. The center will be open immediately after school for three hours each day. During the summer, the center will be open all day. Activities and programs will include Girl Scouts / Boy Scouts programming, activity centers, snacks, classes, theme days, tutoring, games, mentorship, and guided free time.
This initiative has facilitated strong partnerships between the Regional Food Bank, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Oklahoma City Housing Authority, and Novo Ministries. These organizations and the Oak Grove community are excited about these partnerships and the potential for life-change and long-lasting impact.
Novo Ministries has been providing weekly and summer programming for elementary-age children living within the Oklahoma City Housing Authority’s four family housing developments in the greater Oklahoma City area since the summer of 2004.
The Oklahoma City Housing Authority believes that the programming and mentorship provided by Novo Ministries’ staff and volunteers have greatly impacted the children of their developments. In December 2009, the Housing Authority asked Novo Ministries to develop and pilot a new initiative to provide daily programming at one of the four family public housing developments. This new initiative will be completely funded by the Housing Authority through grant monies and their general operating budget.
On March 29th as part of the new “Community Impact Initiative” Novo Ministries will begin daily programming at the Oak Grove Community Center. The center will be open immediately after school for three hours each day. During the summer, the center will be open all day. Activities and programs will include Girl Scouts / Boy Scouts programming, activity centers, snacks, classes, theme days, tutoring, games, mentorship, and guided free time.
This initiative has facilitated strong partnerships between the Regional Food Bank, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Oklahoma City Housing Authority, and Novo Ministries. These organizations and the Oak Grove community are excited about these partnerships and the potential for life-change and long-lasting impact.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Friday, March 5, 2010
Over the years Novo Ministries has seen God work in many wonderful ways. Each day is an opportunity for our staff and volunteers to go out into the inner city of Oklahoma City and share about the love of Christ. Sometimes days and weeks will go by and our staff and volunteers will not see any fruit of our hard labor, but there are times in which God has opened the eyes of one of the children that we serve and they begin to share. Recently our Education Department Director, Tara McLain, witnessed one of these exciting moments
"I've worked at the same club site for 4 years, during which I've seen a lot of kids come and go. One older girl named "Freadom" has been attending for about 3 years. She is "too old" for club, but she still comes because of the relationship that has been built. She is usually quite and reserved at club, so I began to pray for her and for our relationship to become stronger. Two weeks ago, she came to club and led the group in conversation, shared all kinds of information about herself and her personality, and talked openly about the things she had heard and learned about God and Jesus. She asked if she could work at Novo's day camp as a helper. It's amazing how much time it can take before young ones will open up and begin to share what God is doing in their lives. It was so exciting to see how God had softened her heart and how she had stored up so much knowledge over the last 3 years. Pray that she will understand truth and that her heart will be open to truly knowing her Creator."
Thank you so much for praying for the children that Novo serves and for our staff and volunteers, God is doing an incredible work!
"I've worked at the same club site for 4 years, during which I've seen a lot of kids come and go. One older girl named "Freadom" has been attending for about 3 years. She is "too old" for club, but she still comes because of the relationship that has been built. She is usually quite and reserved at club, so I began to pray for her and for our relationship to become stronger. Two weeks ago, she came to club and led the group in conversation, shared all kinds of information about herself and her personality, and talked openly about the things she had heard and learned about God and Jesus. She asked if she could work at Novo's day camp as a helper. It's amazing how much time it can take before young ones will open up and begin to share what God is doing in their lives. It was so exciting to see how God had softened her heart and how she had stored up so much knowledge over the last 3 years. Pray that she will understand truth and that her heart will be open to truly knowing her Creator."
Thank you so much for praying for the children that Novo serves and for our staff and volunteers, God is doing an incredible work!