When I was planning my trip to London, I wanted to connect with someone in the area. Through mutual friends, I was made aware of a Kids Camp that was being held during the week I was going to be in London. So I decided to volunteer with them for a few days before the Olympic events started. Like my time in Japan, I did not have any prior connection with the organization or expectations of what I would be doing there while I volunteered. Initially, I only thought I would be able to volunteer for two days, but decided to help out until the last day of the Kids Camp. For a week from 10 AM to 1 PM, dozens of kids from 5 to 12 came to play sports, sing songs and do arts & crafts.  About a dozen or more volunteers both from the local New Life Masih Ghar church and others from the US.

NKN_4177

What I learned from serving with them, is how much they were a blessing to their community. They were meeting a need in the neighborhood of Southall for youth activities. It was evident as the week passed and the word spread that the kids were having such a wonderful time at the camp, other families wanted to register their kids. Due to limited capacity and volunteers to man the camp they had to cap off the registration. At the last day of the Kids Camp, the parents were invited to come see the slideshow that they had made of the weeks activities. And the kids got to sing a few songs that they learned during the week.

NKN_4222

They were so excited and you can see the appreciation in the parents eyes as they saw how joyful and excited the kids had. It was evident that the camp was a blessing to the children and family.

NKN_4142

My time there was also a blessing to me, for I feel so at home in community of a serving body. And also love to see the practical work that servants of Christ do on a daily basis. And no matter what corner of the world we go, it is the people who smile, greet others, sweep the floors, hug a child, or take a moment to listen to a teen are all part of exhibiting the love of the Lord. 

NKN_4228

I know they are making a difference to the community there in Southall.