Ben’s Story: “Thank You For Being Here For Me”
– February 6, 2017 –
“Thank you for being here for me.”
Ben* was being serious, and it caught Jake off guard.
For about a year, Ben had been coming to the Oasis Center, where Jake was the supervisor. One day he just showed up, hung out, and left. Then he came back later that week. Soon he became a regular part of the Oasis Center life. Ben was a funny guy. Always joking or telling stories, he made the kids and volunteers laugh with his constant humor. It was almost impossible to get him to have a serious conversation or response.
Despite his humor, life wasn’t perfect for Ben. There was frustration and hurt at home. He had graduated high school, but wasn’t working. He talked about getting a job and doing something with his life, but seemed unable to take the next step.
One day Ben walked into Jake’s office. “I love you Jake,” he said. “You’ve been there for me, you gave me a place to go. Without you being here, I wouldn’t have anything to do.” Jake could tell Ben was being serious and expressing what The Coffee Oasis had become for him: his place to belong.
It’s incredible how being consistently available to talk or listen can create such family and belonging among “our” kids. They also flourish under the faithful support of adults in their life. As staff and volunteers continued to encourage Ben to take active steps towards his goals, he began applying himself towards job searches. Within a little while, he was hired! Though his work schedule keeps him busy, he continues to keep in touch.
There are many youth like Ben who need to know there’s a place where they can let down their guard, where people will “be there” for them. Will you join us in “being there” for our cities’ kids?
*name changed to respect youth’s identity
Leave A Comment