Aslan Newsletter of February 9, 1996
A wise proverb states, " You can never step in the same river twice." These words are important to Aslan, as they describe the way we approach our important work. Youth classes, mentor/tutoring, recreation and food and clothing outreaches are all well thought- out and structured programs. Each of these, however, continues to grow and change as Aslan grows and changes. This is what keeps our work fresh and on the cutting edge.

Many exciting opportunities have already been provided in this new year. On January 22, Aslan helped send Jason (one of our youth class and leadership group members) to England where he will participate in a six month "Study Abroad Program" at Wroxton College near Oxford. On February 2, we sent John (another Aslan youth class member) to Kansas for a one year internship at World Impact's Leadership Training Ranch. One of the most exciting projects coming up this year is Aslan's trip to Haiti on July 6 - 16. Aslan and First Baptist Church of Red Bank will each be taking six to ten youth on a 10 day journey to this impoverished nation. Our project will be to help put a roof on a church building which has sat idly with but four standing walls during the recent military junta. Although most of our Aslan kids come from severely deprived situations, those who participate will see a Third-World people without even the barest necessities for existence. This is one more example of the numerous ways we help young people look beyond the immediacy of their own problems. They themselves grow and receive through learning to give to others.

Right now we are hand picking our Haiti team from young people with the self-disipline necessary to be a productive team member. At afternoon youth classes a few days ago, one of the first young women to sign up had caused us multiple problems over the years because of her very difficult home situation. Our belief in her and continual encouragement motivates her to come back again and again and I know it would surprise her high school teachers and administrators (where she is regularly suspended for fighting) to learn of her outstanding leadership in our youth classes.

Please never forget that it is because of caring individuals like you that we can be here for these precious children. Because of this, we offer you our sincerest thanks for continued prayers and support. Where others see some of these youth as only a liability and trouble, Aslan sees them as one more miracle in progress. Just wait and see. Some day they will be out there changing the world for the better - another in a long line of Aslan success stories!

Most sincerely,