It had been four years since we held a formal “Report the the People and Fundraising
Banquet” and it was good to be together again! A few things were different this year from past banquets. First of all, the banquet this year was called “Be the Story”, as we invited our guests, most of whom were already familiar with YFC, to partner with us in direct ministry, indirect ministry, prayer, and/ or financial support. Another difference is that we had new staff to introduce: Erin Ayette – Executive Director, Jake Robinson – Preble County Ministry Director and Matt Auker – Campus Life Central Ministry Director. Lisa Mehaffie was also introduced in her new role of Marketing, Engagement and Operations Director. Romer’s Catering did an excellent job, as this venue was new to us as well! We received a lot of great feedback about the delicious meal and service that Romer’s provided.
A handful of years ago, we knew something needed to change with the annual banquet. YFC had introduced “See the Story” events – smaller, casual gatherings, intended to expose people in the community to the mission of Youth for Christ. So when we were faced with the challenge of the Coronavirus Pandemic, we decided to focus our efforts on “See the Story” events that took place in homes or other appropriate places with small groups of people who were comfortable with gathering together. We are thankful to be back to experiencing some normalcy again and were glad for the opportunity to gather for a new kind of banquet. YFC plans to hold the “See the Story” events again this fall, and we are brainstorming different ideas for the 2024 spring “Be the Story” event. Stay tuned…!
With a goal of $72,000 to raise between “See the Story” and “Be the Story”, we are so close to our goal with less than $6,000 to go! This goal is based on reaching 200 students at $30 per month per student. We are currently reaching out to many more, but this is the amount we budgeted for direct ministry for the ‘22-’23 school year. Praise God that we will need to increase the direct ministry portion of the budget for next year!
We were thankful for the 200+ banquet attendees, the students who helped and those who shared their testimony, the work of God in hearts through those testimonies, the vision of YFC as we move forward, the great food, fellowship and laughter! We are most thankful for God’s work through His people and how He is moving in the lives of students!