Our Family
We aren’t a program. ACTS is a family.
We welcome and accept each of our youth exactly where they are. We celebrate their gifts and ideas while honoring and bearing witness to their hardships and needs. ACTS works to support and create space for not only the kids we serve but the whole family unit. Our work is not in ‘fixing’ it is in ‘embracing, equipping and empowering.’
ACTS is a multi-generational group of people who are committed to doing daily life together, sharing what we have and showing up for one another in big and small ways. We believe that this approach to ministry is not only powerful, but it is Biblical.
Our Impact
We know that cycles take generations changes to break. That’s why our work today is just as critical as it was in 2010 when we began working with ‘Generation 1’. We have the privilege to be working with siblings, cousins, nephews & nieces, and now even the children of some of our first ACTS members.
Because ACTS is family no one ‘ages out’ of this ministry. As our youth grow up they grow into new roles within ACTS and our greater community. We are so proud of the people our first generations of youth have become. They are small business owners, present & involved parents, good neighbors, and people who know they are loved.
We need to be loved to be love. We each need to be supported and seen in order to be able to bear witness and support others. When we sow seeds we don’t always get to see the fruits of that labor and sacrifice. But sometimes, we do!
Our Approach
ACTS stands apart from other organizations in several key ways.
First, ACTS operates within a home, and we structure our time together around familial relationships and roles. For example, all ACTS youth help with daily ‘chores.’ They have opportunities to assist with meal preparation and clean-up, and they view themselves as members of this ACTS family. They help create the spaces and rhythms here at ACTS rather than simply being subject to them. In addition, our youth do not have to meet eligibility requirements based on age, income, or zip code. Youth are referred to ACTS by family members, friends, and neighbors who have or currently participate. Our enrollment process is very simple, and it is inclusive of whole family units rather than individuals. Lastly, ACTS youth cannot age out; over time their roles in ACTS may evolve but they are never no longer a part of our community. ACTS is Family, and Family is Forever.
ARTS
Creating art is a powerful way for youth to connect with one another as they make meaning of their own feelings and experiences. Exploring new mediums, working on personal projects, and creating work for the annual art show are ways our youth are actively engaged in the Arts all year long.
Teaching
We all have the ability to teach and inspire, and thats exactly what we encourage and equip our youth to live into. Many ACTS gatherings are led and supported by our teen leaders, kids who grew up within ACTS and are now working as a part of the team.
Community
It’s what ACTS is all about. We are each committed to learning how to see, respect, and care for one another. Our youth create community here at ACTS, and that commitment to authentic connection carries over to the other communities they are a part of. Just as we benefit from our local and faith communities, we as ACTS have so much to offer, teach, and share in return.
Serving
We believe that God has given each of us gifts and that we are called to use them well to serve one another. We know that these kids have ideas, passions, and abilities that our world needs and we work each day to encourage, pray for, and nurture them.
One of our 7th Graders says:
“I go to ACTS because it makes me feel safe and comfortable being myself.
i have been coming to ACTS for over half my life. One of my favorite things is that I get to help Miss Jaime work with the younger kids.
It makes me feel important to be a part of the acts family.”
Get Involved
It takes a community, and the support of many, to foster the work of ACTS.
We need your gifts of support, time, and talents. ACTS cannot exist without the generosity of individuals and organizations. As a 501c3 non-profit, all donations are tax deductible.
Current tangible needs
Want an easy way to donate items we need? Check out our Amazon Wishlist.
As seasons change, so do our needs. Check back often!
Volunteer opportunities
If you are interested in helping with snacks, meals, transportation, or special events, please contact us!
Make a Financial Gift
Make a one-time donation or a monthly pledge. Your financial gift has a lasting impact on our ACTS community.