FEBRUARY 11, 2006

Dear Friends,

I would, if I could, give every suffering child a magic cape to wear against threats of rejection, pain, and broken dreams. But, alas, reality prevents such flights of fantasy.

The cloaking power of REACH resides only in knowing that God´s hand is upon us, guiding us as we continue to make a difference in the lives of the children we serve; keeping them wrapped in love, strengthening and educating them to make wise and responsible decisions and remaining beside them as they navigate their way through physical dangers and ever-threatening despair.

Amy Salins, who has joined REACH as Director of Progressive Units, is one of many ways God´s hand is upon us. Overseeing a variety of educational tasks, she also coordinates caseloads of 168 children and family members, states:

"REACH has been a blessing to me. I am excited as I begin to know the families that REACH supports. Their stories, struggles, basically their lives are important to me. As I begin to develop relationships especially the kids, I am striving to be an encourager, a shoulder to lean on and a true friend. I long to love others, as Jesus has called me to love others, and I am embracing REACH families and kids as I begin this new chapter in my life."

Amy and those who do the daily work of REACH are the fiber of the only cape we can offer -- a cloak of love and warmth and protection offered in Jesus´ name. You who support the work continue to make possible the weaving of that cape. It´s not magic; it seems to us a miracle. As usual, we thank you again and again.

Blessings my friends,

Susan K. Slonaker

Please support Amy´s position by donating to this important work - we need your financial support and your continued actions of encouragement.