An Invitation

I have been fortunate enough to be a part of our activities at RiverWest for almost two years. I am continually amazed by the generosity of our small congregation and how much we’ve been able to bless the families in RiverWest. Over the years we’ve gone from Christmas gifts for 11 families in 2008 to 40 families last year and backpacks for 80 kids in 2009 and nearly 140 this year! Every year Imago people rise to the occasion and all the Christmas gifts and backpacks are taken care of.  In addition, everyone keeps filling the “black bags” each week for the food pantry at RiverWest.

Last summer we kicked-off our “Thursday Family Nights” at RiverWest and then in the school year started homework help and tutoring. We’ve had 30-80 kids every Thursday – even rain or snow can’t keep them away. Now, instead of helping random families in RiverWest I’ve actually gotten to know the kids and families we are serving. It becomes more than just a backpack “number” – it’s a name and a face. So each Sunday when I see the black bags piling up by the back table – I see the overwhelming generosity of my friends and family at Imago Dei helping my friends and their families at RiverWest.

I am excited about backpacks this year because I know 80% of the kids that signed up. So the 140 backpacks piled up in my garage right now are very, very personal. It’s exciting for me to have my friend at Imago picking out what school supplies my friend in RiverWest will like the best. I love the connections we have made. We’re not just helping strangers anymore.

Which is why I want to invite you to come down this Thursday night to our “Backpack Party” as we celebrate blessing these kids with backpacks, school supplies and uniform vouchers.  As Imago Dei attendees, we aren’t always able to see into each ministry. But this Thursday there’s room for all of you to come check out what we do at RiverWest and see the kid’s smiling faces as they pick up their backpacks (and I really would be thrilled if you all showed up!). I want my friends at Imago Dei to meet my friends at RiverWest and take a peek into the difference you’re making in their lives.

RiverWest Backpack Party
Thursday, Aug. 19 from 6-8pm
Food, Fun & Games for all – kid’s most definitely welcome
Come grab a hot dog and play four-square with some kids!
More details and directions on the Facebook Event.