A youth group from Louisiana is spending their summer making a difference in Hopkinsville — not through traditional camp activities, but by helping women rebuild their lives after incarceration and addiction.
Instead of cabins and campfires, the youth of Colyell Baptist Church from Livingston, Louisiana are spending their summer camp on a job site — renovating a house for Grace and Mercy, a Hopkinsville recovery home for women in crisis.
Zane Posey is one of about 80 volunteers here this week.
click to download audioPosey says the mission is personal — and spiritual — for everyone in his group.
click to download audioFor Senior Pastor Jeremy Glasscock, this service project is part of something much deeper.
click to download audioGlasscock says the church gives its students a choice each summer — go to a traditional church camp, or spend a week serving.
click to download audioJoanna Mack is the executive director of Grace and Mercy, which just marked its 10th anniversary in July. The transitional home helps women recovering from incarceration, homelessness, and addiction.
click to download audioThe house being renovated on South Main Street will become new apartments for graduates of the program — something badly needed.
click to download audioGrace and Mercy receives no local, state, or federal funds. It survives on donations, thrift store revenue, and community support — support like what’s coming from Colyell Baptist Church this week.
click to download audioFrom pounding nails to restoring hope, this Louisiana youth group is building more than just walls — they’re helping build lives.
