Tutoring Update

Thank you for your continued prayer for our after school tutoring program on Cypress St. Our partnership with Biola University has been incredible, relationships are being built and our Cypress students are taking ownership of their school work. The kids will be getting their quarterly grades this week and we will evaluate their progress and how to meet specific needs.

Our goal of having one to one student teacher ratio is more and more becoming a reality. This month we had Biola students as well as adults from Friends church volunteering their time. One big “Thanks” to Friends Children’s ministry, Cal and Tony B; your hearts of service blesses us and the kids very much.

Let us share a precious story that took place this month:

Lluvia, first grader, while being tutored by a Biola student asked “Who is God?” The volunteer was not expecting that question and she said “God is the owner of the world”. After a few moments Lluvia was thinking and said “Oh….so God is your Father and my Father and that makes us sisters” The Biola Students was smiling from ear to ear and responded “That’s right and that’s why I keep coming back - to hang out with my sister.” It was a precious moment and a conversation that that volunteer will never forget.


Here is what another Biola volunteer has to say about his experience:

I started participating in Cypress Street Ministries on March 4, 2009. At first, it was only for an assignment for one of my classes. I didn’t really want to be there, and I resented the fact that I was being forced to participate in a ministry. I was also very hesitant because I don’t really like meeting new people and I have a small fear that I wouldn’t be able to relate or interact with the kids very easily. Everything changed after I got there. From the first day, helping Esther do her homework, to the multiple Tuesday night Bible studies I’ve been able to help out with, I’m glad I came. I’ve enjoyed interacting with the kids, getting to know them, and making friends with them. All my initial hesitations evaporated as the kids were open and welcoming. I’m so glad that I’ve been able to help out with Cypress, and I hope that I’m able to bless others at least half as much as God has blessed me through this ministry.
~Chris Matsuoka

It is stories like these that confirm Gods calling on our lives. God is moving and we are soo excited to be on this journey pouring Jesus into the lives of so many. To God be all Glory and Praise!!

Needs for this program
• 18-20 bean bag chairs for a fun reading environment
• more volunteers