2018 Hope Youth Corps Hawaii

As teens growing up in the International Church of Christ (ICOC), we've seen our friends grow up and go off to foreign countries or across the nation to serve others. So I guess you can say that it's always been a dream of ours. Dave and I both come from foster homes into adoptive homes. As mentioned in the video I was adopted at the age of 5 from Bridgeport Connecticut and Dave was adopted as an infant from Cambodia. We've both been through a lot concerning this and I won't go into detail. But without God, our friends and families that have surrounded us with love throughout it all we would definitely not be where we are today. Dave went on a family trip to Hawaii recently and learned about the culture as well as the shocking amount of poverty in the communities. When he came back and found out that HYC was sending teens to Hawaii he came up to me after church and said, "Cody we gotta go man. There's a real need". At this we began communication with our Hope Worldwide Chapter leaders, John and Cheryl Rountree and they were able to get us spots for the trip. 
We're writing this letter to ask for financial support and we are extremely grateful for whatever anyone can give! Every and any amount is appreciated and is super helpful for our cause!! Below I have included important information about what exactly Dave and I will be doing on the trip. The total payment for our trip is due on Friday, June 15th, 2018. 

HOPE Youth Corps Hawaii is an unforgettable program that allows us to serve both the residents and environment of Oahu. Although Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and lush landscapes, it is also home to many uncommonly advertised issues such as homelessness, poverty, endangered species and more. While on the trip we'll have the chance to work at Waimanalo Transitional Shelter: a homeless shelter for families that helps parents find stable jobs, learn life skills and eventually transition into their own homes. For three days, we will be providing the children with one-on-one attention and mentoring. The shelter activities include playtime, character-building activities and lessons, and a final Fun Fair with games, prizes, and a picnic lunch together.

We will also spend a day with Habitat for Humanity to help build homes for families in need. In the past, HYC volunteers have laid foundations, painted, put up drywall, installed insulation and built roofs. When we work the land on this trip, not only do endangered plants and animals benefit, but community members, who rely on the land, are positively impacted as well.  HYC provides physical labor necessary to carry out the environment conservation projects (that usually take months) in just a day's work!

Although practicing community service is the prevailing purpose of HYC Hawaii, we will also have the chance to swim at famous beaches, snorkel with native marine life, visit tourist destinations, experience Native Hawaiian culture and enjoy breathtaking views. More importantly, we will be able to experience Hawaii with their new HYC ohana (family) as they build spiritual, deep and lifelong relationships by serving together. But most importantly, Dave and I will have the amazing opportunity to grow closer to God and build stronger convictions about serving others and enriching our own communities back home. 

Again, we are so grateful for any amount of donations and support. We are really looking forward to this trip but we can’t do it without your help! This means so much to us.

                                                                         Thank You, 
                                                                                                 Cody and Dave ☺