Mission Statement

Abba's place is a children's ministry that emphasized God's family and each childs special place in that families. Through a loving environment, we plan to witness the saving message of Jesus Christ, give a positive example of Christian living, and provide a place of security unlike the dangerous streets of Harrisburg. This environment also allows friendships to form which exemplify God's love for each child. We plan to not only plant seeds in the kids' hearts, but also to reach out to their families. The ultimate goals of Abba's place is to follow the Great Commission of Matthew 28 and making disciples for Christ.

Volunteer Options

Messiah Volunteers hang out with the kids, sing songs, break into groups for lessons and eating snacks! We also try to provide a few extra activities with the kids, iincluding a sleepover at Messiah. Come either Monday nights 5:30-8:30 (4 year olds-4th graders) or Wednesday nights 5:30-8:30 (5th graders through highschool).

Mission and Vision

BBBS' mission is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationship

How Messiah College Students Can Help

Messiah College students can volunteer with either Clb or the After School Program. Most students go one weekday each week. But volunteers can participate as often as they wish each week.

Club: Volunteers leave Messiah around 3pm. Volunteers can stay as late as they would like. Club is usually open until 7:30pm. Club is a time for volunteers to have fun with their buddy. A typical Club experience involves time to play outside or in the gym, eating a meal, and crafts. The programs provides structure andoffers a safe meeting place, which appeals to praent, children, and volunteers. Cluib grew out of a pilot project funded by a 2001 grant

Lunch Buddy: Volunteers provide Littles with one-to-one time and attention in their schools, typically once a week during the academic year. Teachers identify children who can benefit most from interaction with a caring adult. Volunteer's go to their Buddy's school and eat lunch, go to recess, or attnd reading period with them. As their friendships evolve, volunteers and children discover way to make school and learning fun.

History

Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldet and largest youth mentoring organization in the United States. In 2004, the organization sevred more than 225,000 youth ages 5 through 18, in 5, 000 communities across the country, through a network of 470 agencies. National research has shown that the positive relationship between Big Brothers and Big Sisters and their Littles have a direct, measurable, and lasting impact on children's lives. For example, Little's are 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 52% less likely to skip school, and are more confident in their schoolwork perfomance.