Aslan Newsletter of February 18, 1997
We were recently speaking to Eileen and Dot, two friends from the Volunteer Center (an organization that refers volunteers to groups like Aslan). These women have for over 10 years sent numerous tutors and other key volunteers our way. They commented that, "The problem with Aslan is you guys don't realize you can't be doing all the things you do without more people to help you. You just do them anyhow!" They are right. It is very hard for us to see so many needs and not find more ways to try and meet them.

In January, Aslan instituted another new outreach - a young adult basketball league. Since our first Aslan team in 1976, guys have asked us to start a league for young adults. We have seen a tremendous response to this new venture! Aslan already has fifty men (ages 21 - 35) participating in this Saturday evening program. Many of the players are former Aslan team members. It is wonderful to see their wives, children and friends coming to watch them play.

Sonny, one of our former Aslan stars, shares the leadership of our new league. Sonny joined Aslan as a high school freshman in 1982, when he moved to this area to live with an aunt. Both his mother and father were deceased, and Sonny was a shy young man with five missing front teeth. Aslan found help for Sonny (with donated assistance from a local dentist and a monetary grant) and it was not long before he had a new smile.

Sonny went on to become a real leader in high school. However, after graduating he got into some serious trouble. This would have ruined some people, but Sonny learned his lesson and let it build real character in him. He has steadily worked two full-time jobs and lived an exemplary life while helping Aslan..

One of the requirements I gave Sonny regarding starting the men's league was I wanted the older guys to also help with our Wednesday evening basketball program for 10 - 14 year old boys. These kids have few positive role models (particularly men) to look up to. The mentoring nature of Aslan thus comes full-circle, as those who received have returned to give.

With your help, Aslan is impacting lives each and every day - helping children and adults experience true self-worth through understanding and experiencing God's love.

Most sincerely,