Marcus’ Story

Marcus has always been a young man with a heart for others. He has had to as his father has been in and out of prison and not been very active in Marcus’s life. He has had to care for an ailing mother whom he loves very much and three younger siblings. Marcus has had to be responsible beyond his seventeen years.

Marcus has grown up in and around gang life in Tacoma – his immediate and extended family have been active for years and Marcus was being recruited and involved himself. He met one of our volunteers and developed a close friendship and eventually made a decision to follow Christ and walk away from gang life. It has been a battle for him, but almost immediately you could see the change. He began to lead others to Christ and conducted a bible study for others soon after. He had a tremendous impact on one of our other student leaders, Mister Swansey. Soon after Marcus got a job and has been faithfully working for the past year and a half.

Marcus is one of the Sozo Soldiers who spends time with Bishop Freeze and other youth to reach the urban youth here in Tacoma. Marcus is a leader who has a heart of compassion and for seeing others have a chance to make it. All three of his younger siblings are connected to Sozo Kids and attend regularly. Recently, he made his first trip to camp and had an amazing experience with friends and leaders and grew closer to Christ. We can’t wait to see what God will do through Marcus. We are so proud of you “mighty warrior.”