AUGUST, 2010

MERCI say the French
DANK the Dutch
OBRIGADO the Portuguese
GRACIAS the Spanish
GRAZIE the Italians

We at REACH are expressing our thanks in every way we possibly can. We say it to God, we say it to our supporters, we say it to volunteers, and to organizations that trust us by supplying grants and guidance. We could use all the languages available yet never adequately express our gratitude. But we are trying.

Recently, we had the pleasure of partnering with Overlake Christian Church in Seattle to host Dr. Tony Campolo for a speaking engagement and fundraising evening. Our theme was "Revolutionary Love" – loving people as if your life depends on it. Revolutionary love is a goal to share God's "no strings attached" love with as many people as possible through simple acts of kindness. For example? "Anything good, anything that relieves pressure, sorrow, fear, frustration, anything that leads to a small or large, an instant or eventual, thankfulness. Anything. As Dr. Campolo said, "It's not necessarily remarkable, but always with one underlying purpose: to pass along the love of Jesus to others."

For many years, Tony Campolo has been Honorary Chair and good friend to REACH. Not only is he an author, speaker, sociologist, professor, pastor, social activist, but also, a passionate follower of Jesus. Over his many years of Christian service, Tony has boldly challenged millions of people all over the world to respond to God's infinite love by what we call here at REACH "love in action!" For us this love is aimed at children we serve.

In Seattle, Tony told a story about his friend's four-year-old little girl. There was a thunderstorm and the Dad was concerned that she might be frightened by it, so while lightning flashed and thunder roared he rushed upstairs to check on her. Reaching her bedroom he found his daughter standing on the windowsill, leaning against the glass. "Jennifer, what are you doing?" he shouted. Jennifer responded, "I think God is trying to take my picture!" "Now," said Tony, "there's a kid who knows how special she is in the eyes of God!"

Those of you who were with us on that delightful and inspiring evening with Tony were reminded that the work of REACH involves expressing God's love to a group of unique children; kids suffering HIV/AIDS, kids who need to know how special they are. You were reminded that REACH cannot continue without your financial support and you responded - generously!

Now, we respond with thankfulness to your response. Together, we raised over $20,000 which not only matches our Murdock Trust grant, but also provides much needed program support for our children and families. Thanks to you who have included REACH in your "love in action." Merci, Dank, Grazie...

Sincerely,


Stefanie Johnson


Merry O. Moyer