A Partnership of St. John's UCC and Riley Elementary School

(from the June/July 2008 Newsletter)

Always remember that when others may look at these kids and see weeds, our heavenly Father sees the beautiful flowers that he created.

Fiesta Appreciation Celebration - May 7

A Fiesta was held on Wednesday evening, May 7, at La Fiesta Restaurant on 6th Street to celebrate the end of the school year. The Kids Hope USA children were able to have the experience of eating in a Mexican restaurant. A Mexican dinner, chips and salsa were enjoyed by 42 KHUSA mentors and prayer partners, which included 15 mentor/prayer partner pairs, 26 children, 1 substitute and 3 volunteers. The children ordered off the children's menu while straws with honeycomb sombreros, colorful maracas, and baggies of Mexican candy were handed out. Several of the La Fiesta waiters sang songs with their own guitar accompanist. The best entertainment was led by our own Abby Lambertson, Nettie Egel, and Bailey Burton, who are Spanish students at Lincoln High School, as they taught the song "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes" in Spanish. Even the waiters joined in the fun! It was a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a Mexican restaurant atmosphere with our excited and happy Kids Hope USA family. The turnout was SUPER!

Thank You From The Children

I love coming to the party at La Fiesta.

Thank you for planning the big year end "fiesta."

Mentor Final Comments

Joy! She brought me a yellow rose.

He said we would be friends forever.

KIDS HOPE USA Recognition

The KIDS HOPE USA mentors, prayer partners and volunteers were recognized during the April 27 church service. Rev. Kate asked for all to stand who had in some way contributed to the KIDS HOPE USA program with their time, patience, guidance and talents.

I am very grateful for the dedicated and generous KIDS HOPE USA participants. This has been a very challenging year for many mentors whose children have encountered serious situations. I am so proud to say that the mentors have stepped up to help at times that I believe are above the role of a KIDS HOPE USA mentor. Thank you to All!

In everything, give thanks!