I just returned from an afternoon in Tillicum–lunch at Gertie’s with my friend, Chuck Remsberg, and then a quick visit to the new Youth & Family Center.  It’s hard to believe that just over 3 years ago this state of the art center (filling with kids as I left) was simply a dream, a burden on the heart of local businessman Dan Durr.  Today as we gave a tour to Chuck I was struck by the impact this ministry is already having on the community of Tillicum.

It’s easy to measure success by numbers and there are plenty to refer to when discussing the Center: 188 different kids through so far, each kid averaging 2-4 hours/day at the Center, etc, etc.  These statistics grabbed Chuck’s attention but nothing like when Dan shared about the Economis software that creates a virtual “economy” for kids to “earn” credits that are payed out as a paycheck (minus FICA, federal taxes, etc.). These credits can then be invested in the stock market and even used towards summer camp and special trips.

But what truly captured my heart, and I believe gives a glimpse into the deep impact of the Center and relationships built there with Christ following adults was a quote Dan shared with me.  He said, “Bobby, a family told me the other day they had the opportunity to move to another community with cheaper rent. But they just couldn’t imagine leaving Tillicum. They said the Center was too much of a good thing for their kids to leave.”

Imagine that–cheaper rent elsewhere, perhaps even less crime…but the determining factor of this family staying in Tillicum was the importance of the Youth & Family Center.  Build it and they may come…build it and make it a place where God’s love pours in truth & grace filled relationships and they will keep coming and MAKE IT THEIR HOME.

If you haven’t seen it yet, Dan put together a great slide show recently and posted it on YouTube. Click here to take a look!