Building Shelves, Bonfires, and Community
Some of the most meaningful work we do does not happen on a stage or at a big event. It happens in the small, ordinary moments where relationships grow and young people begin to discover what true community feels like.
This past month gave us several of those moments.
Building With Purpose
Our boys group partnered with Iron Goat to build a custom shelf for students to store their backpacks and personal items. For many of our kids, this might seem simple, but having a safe place for their belongings is something they do not always get.
What made it even more powerful was that they helped build it.
With Dan’s guidance, the boys learned how to handle tools, follow safety steps, and work together. Dan’s patient leadership gave each young man a taste of mentorship, skill-building, and healthy adult support, which are experiences many of them rarely receive.
This project did more than create storage space. It helped reshape how our boys experience belonging, responsibility, friendship, and partnership.
Bonfires and Belonging
We also hosted our first bonfire of the season, and the joy among our students was beautiful to see. Kids laughed, roasted snacks, played games, and enjoyed the rare gift of simply being kids.
In the cycle of poverty, children often grow up too quickly. Safety can be inconsistent, and rest is hard to find. Moments of warmth, fun, and connection are more valuable than most people realize.
Giving Back in a Meaningful Way
A major highlight of the month was giving our students the chance to serve others. With Feed Spokane and Homestead Ministries, our youth assembled hundreds of soup kits for families in need. For many of them, this was one of the first opportunities they have had to give back.
We reminded them that generosity does not only mean giving money. It can also mean time, talent, effort, and compassion. Watching our students work together and serve with pride was a powerful reminder of the dignity and purpose God has placed in each of them.
A Thanksgiving Reminder
Through each project and partnership, I am reminded again that God created us for community. We were made to work together, celebrate together, and care for others together.
As we enter the Thanksgiving season, Psalm 107:1 comes to mind:
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
Everything we do at YFC, from the shelves built to the meals packed, flows from God’s goodness. His love sustains this ministry. His kindness brings partners like you alongside us. Because of Him, our centers continue to be places of joy, learning, belonging, peace, and hope.
We are deeply grateful for His goodness and for you.
Kevin Illidge
Executive Director