01/27/14 In the last year, Trinity United Methodist Church has begun to offer two programs aimed at helping better the Plymouth community and Marshall County. The first is a support group and the second is directed at helping mentor 5-12 grade students. Nate Crawford, the Director of Youth and Young Adults at Trinity, both developed and implemented these programs.
First, the support groups take a direct approach to helping people of all ages to overcome the difficulties in their lives. Originally these groups were designed to be a drug and alcohol recovery group. However, as Crawford notes, drugs and alcohol are almost always the symptom(s) of some other issue. The support groups at Trinity aim to deal with the underlying issues. Since the goal is to deal with all issues, Crawford emphasizes that all people are welcome, regardless of age, sex, creed, etc. He says, “All people struggle and the goal is to help everyone overcome their struggles.” If you are struggling with addiction, mental illness, identity issues, or something else, this is a safe place that may be able to help you. The groups meet the first and third Tuesday of the month at 7pm at Trinity United Methodist Church.
It is important to note, though, that the support groups are not proselytizing. The goal truly is to help people of all ages reorient their lives in more positive and productive ways. Again, Crawford says, “The mission of Trinity United Methodist Church is to ‘live as passionate followers of Jesus Christ to change the world.’ With this in mind, our goal is to use these groups to change the world by helping people live in ways that overcome the problems they face. It is about living positive lives.”
The second program is designed to be a place for students to build relationships with positive role-model adults. The mentor groups are built around the arts and homework. Trinity, through the generous donations of multiple grants, has been able to purchase art and musical supplies for students to learn on. During this time, students can come and play the instruments, get instruction from Crawford and others, as well as interact and learn from each other. There is also time for team creativity, where students can write one act plays, poems, etc. Crawford believes this fills a need in the community as the arts are some of the first places to have time cut in school, as well as there being less money. Trinity hopes to fill the void left.
With the arts, this group also offers help with homework and school. Numerous high school students have volunteered to help intermediate and junior high students. High school students can also receive help from each other or from some of the adults. These groups are for 5-12 graders and meet on Wednesday from 6-8pm. At 5pm, the church offers a free meal (donations are accepted), so that student can come and receive a fresh, hot source of food.
If anyone has any questions or concerns, please contact Nate Crawford at 574-807-5467 or at youthdirector@trinityumcplymouth.com
