MORE THAN SERVICE: A WEEK OF HEARTS, HANDS AND STUFFED DINOSAURS

Summer 2025, Week 1

This week, we rolled out the red carpet for our first summer overnight groups. From painting walls to planting seeds, these teams proved that “mission” isn’t just a word; it’s paint-splattered shorts, muddy shoes, and even running out of breath playing “Sharks and Minnows”.

Youth from Granbury United Methodist Church and Renew Church dove into a week of service, learning, and raw community love.  

King’s Club

The King’s Club lies at the heart of the groups mobilization experience. Groups meet with kids in communities and through Bible lessons, games, arts and crafts, and other creative activities, engage the kids in fun and uplifting ways.

The Granbury team spent time with kids at South Terrace Apartments, while the Renew team connected with children at Ashton Oaks, Kate Ross, and Brazos Village. Between bracelet-making, dance breaks, drawing, painting, and Bible lessons, both the kids and groups grew together; learning as they served, and serving as they learned.

Service Projects

Service projects are another cornerstone of the Groups experience. Visiting groups take on hands-on tasks that make a real difference in the community while deepening their understanding of service. Whether working under the sun or in cooler weather, these groups consistently rediscover service's true meaning through their dedication.

This week, the Granbury team revitalized the former Jubilee Food Market parking lot, applying fresh coats of paint to transform the space. The Renew group, on the other hand,  had their middle school students serve in community gardens run by Global Revive and Women in Agriculture, while the high school students repainted the exterior of Mission Waco’s youth center!

Learning Activities

Taking a break from serving, the groups had a chance to learn about Mission Waco's life-changing programs. This week, the teams visited the Creekside Community Village property, where they learned about the inspiring housing project that will eventually welcome over 300 individuals off the streets. They also toured Urban Reap, discovering how their important work bridges the environment and agriculture. A visit to the Fair Trade Market brought a new understanding of ethical trade, with each handmade item carrying its own unique story. A few stuffed dinosaurs were given new homes as the groups took them off the shelves, carrying the story of fairtrade to their own communities. 

The week wasn’t just about service; it was about growth. One youth remarked that she has seen her patience grow over the course of the week; another was moved by the selflessness of a resident at My Brother’s Keeper shelter. With new friendships formed and perspectives shifted, the youths left with more than they brought. We can’t wait to welcome more groups next week!