Small steps make a big difference

As we count down the days to our Walk For Hope on Saturday, August 17, we can't help but think about the importance of family in the development of a child.

According to Children's HealthWatch, a safe, stable home is important for a child’s physical and mental health today and their growth and learning abilities tomorrow. But many children in Appalachia do not have a safe and stable home due to the devastating effect of drugs on entire family units. That is why we are asking you to join us at the walk. There's nothing more important right now than addressing the crisis of children in our community suffering neglect, abuse and hopelessness because of addiction in their family.

By attending our walk, you will help us raise awareness of this issue as we raise the funds we need to open our new Children's Resource Center. Because this is a new program, we need to hire part-time staff, acquire a rental facility and purchase supplies and resources that will provide emergency relief to children in homes of active addiction. We have set a goal of $30,000 to make this happen, and every dollar you help us bring in at Walk For Hope will be used for this cause.

Studies show that kids in homes where addiction is present are more likely to walk the same destructive path. That's why we can no longer look the other way or only focus our efforts on addressing the problems of addiction later in life. We must act now and share the hope and love of Christ with those who need it most. Nothing is more precious in life than our children.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Register for our Walk For Hope.
2. Invite a friend or family member to walk with you.
3. Donate $100 to our resource center.

That's it. Small steps really do make a big difference.

On Saturday, we'll get started with activities and checking in walkers at 8 a.m. At 9, we will all walk together for three laps.

We'll see you there!