October was another full and exciting month at Valley Youth Network! From beautiful fall days spent outdoors to our weekly gatherings, we’re grateful for the many opportunities we’ve had to spend time with students, build relationships, and point them toward Christ.
Our weekly CHIL gatherings continued to be a highlight of the month, with great groups of students joining us each Thursday night. It’s been encouraging to see consistent attendance, new faces, and friendships developing as we gather together. One of the highlights of the month was an awesome student-led CHIL night! Students took ownership of our pumpkin carving contest, bringing plenty of creativity and laughter to the evening. We were also blessed to hear an incredible testimony from one of our students. There’s something especially encouraging about seeing young people step up, share their faith, and encourage their peers. These are the moments that remind us why we do what we do!
We also took advantage of the beautiful fall weather with a Trip to Coopers Rock, where we enjoyed time hiking and exploring together before wrapping up the evening with a Guys night grilling steaks. It was a great opportunity to slow down, enjoy God’s creation, and spend quality time together outside of our regular gatherings. Our girls enjoyed a special evening of candle making and fellowship. These smaller gatherings have become such a valuable part of our ministry, giving students opportunities to connect and build deeper friendships.
Students also continued serving our community through an opportunity to volunteer at the Food Pantry. We’re thankful for opportunities like these that help students look beyond themselves and put their faith into action through serving others.
Alongside these events, we enjoyed another monthly Coffeehouse and continued our FCA breakfasts, creating additional spaces for students to gather, connect, and be encouraged throughout the school week.
Another important part of October was our fundraiser at Buffer Creek Sporting Clays. We’re incredibly thankful for everyone who came out to participate, support the event, and invest in the work of Valley Youth Network. The generosity of our community makes it possible for us to continue creating opportunities for students to connect, grow in their faith, and experience meaningful relationships. We’re grateful for everyone who helped make the fundraiser possible!
October also marked the end of the high school soccer season. Tanner and Kip are incredibly thankful for the opportunity to coach the boys this fall. While the season has come to a close, the relationships built throughout the past several months are something we’re especially grateful for. Coaching has been another meaningful opportunity to invest in students, encourage them, and be part of their lives beyond our regular ministry activities.
As we look back on October, we’re reminded that ministry happens in so many different places. Sometimes it’s during a Thursday night message, sometimes on a soccer field, sometimes is is spending time in God’s creation, and sometimes through a student courageously sharing what God has done in their life.
We’re thankful for each student who walks through our doors, the volunteers who faithfully invest their time, and the community that continues to support this ministry.
Thank you for being part of what God is doing through Valley Youth Network. We’re excited to see what He has in store as we head into the final months of the year!
