Stepping out in faith can be daunting, but it is sometimes these leaps of faith that can be the most rewarding. For Roberto Reyes, a leap of faith led him to employment with Brookside CDC.

Roberto was hired on with Brookside Community Play to run the summer programming, Indy Summer Learning Labs. This five-week academic enrichment camp serves students in 1st-9th grade, hosted by many organizations across the city, is designed to help students improve their academic achievement.

Roberto Reyes took a leap of faith this summer in accepting his role as a leader for Indy Summer Learning Labs (ISLL) which was co-hosted by Brookside Community Play. He was one of many (staff and volunteers) who came together to help meet the needs of children and families in the Brookside community.

Roberto and his family have been attending Brookside Community Church for several months before he was approached about the position by Brookside Community Play director, Natalia Blondet. Although he had never worked with youth before, he was intrigued. He recalls his apprehension during their conversation, “I didn’t know what I was getting into.” However, he felt encouraged to accept the challenge. “I’m gonna walk by faith and trust that the Lord wants me here.”

Almost immediately, Roberto saw the importance of his role and his perspective was transformed. Roberto explains, “Wow it just hit me. The fact that I’m going to be able to impact the lives of these kids,” he notes that after just two days the kids were responding positively. He continues, “What can I give them in order to make these 5 weeks a blessing for them?” He had found another layer of motivation and resolve saying, “It has to turn out well for them.”

Building caring adult relationships is a crucial component of supporting children who may be experiencing trauma and other challenges. Within this context, just one caring adult relationship in a child’s life can provide the stability that they need to succeed. Many children just need someone to patiently walk with them. In his role, Roberto worked hard to extend dignity to the often overlooked. In taking a step of faith, Roberto is making a positive difference in the lives of youth in the Brookside community. When you take a leap of faith, take notice of your surroundings because you may have just uncovered an unexpected blessing that extends beyond yourself.

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