What OFC Means to Me

I first served with Our Father’s Children in 2007, when I was 14 years old. From that very first week, I was hooked. Serving filled me with joy, my own worries felt lighter, and I drew closer to the Lord. I knew without a doubt that serving others made a huge Kingdom impact.

When I turned 18, I became a counselor. OFC pairs one adult to two children, which means you have the privilege of making each child feel deeply loved and seen. These are kids who’ve often been through things no child should have to endure - most are in foster care, some live with relatives, a few have been adopted. All have experienced some form of abuse or neglect and have had to grow up far too quickly.

At camp, we get to flip that narrative. For one week, they are free to laugh, to play, to belong. They experience what it feels like to be safe, chosen, and celebrated. For a child who has felt forgotten, this is the first time they feel celebrated.

One of the most beautiful traditions is the girls’ tea party. Each girl picks out a beautiful dress to take home, gets her hair and makeup done, and is told how lovely she is. I’ll never forget one camper, a 7-year-old named Makayla. When I told her she was beautiful, she began to cry. Through her tears she whispered that no one had ever told her that before. That night, I had the privilege of reminding her that she is a princess, a daughter of the King, created in His image, wonderfully made inside and out. It was a brief moment in my life, but for her it was life-changing. I pray she never forgets how loved and precious she is.

That’s what OFC does. It shares the love of Christ with children who desperately need hope. It takes just one caring adult to make a lasting difference in the life of a child, and I have seen firsthand the ripple effect of that love. I’ve now served 15 summers and countless retreats, and I can say with confidence: OFC changes lives - the kids’, and the volunteers’.

Not everyone can give their time, but today, on North Texas Giving Day, you can join me in making an impact. Even a small gift helps create these powerful moments, and today your gift is matched, doubling its impact.

Thank you for helping us show these kids the love of Christ and reminding them they are not forgotten. 💛