If You Think Youth Can’t Make An Impact, Read This!
Impacting Lives Year After Year!
For years, the sophomore class at Mitchell Christian School has embarked on an Urban Plunge weekend, immersing themselves in service and ministry. This year, their journey took them to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for a transformative experience that stretched their perspectives and deepened their faith.
From Friday evening to Sunday morning, the students worked alongside local missions, serving meals, cleaning facilities, and engaging with those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Teacher Dawn Hogue witnessed her students stepping beyond their comfort zones, realizing that knowing about struggles is far different from personally meeting those affected.
“The students were surprised when we saw some of the same individuals at different missions,” Dawn reflected. “They were challenged to think beyond what they saw and consider what life might really be like for these families. Watching them jump in, serve, and interact with both the workers and those in need was a joy.”
A pivotal moment came during a Saturday morning prayer walk. Dawn, along with students Alissa and Trudie, braved the chilly weather to pick up trash and pray over the community. A woman walking parallel to them caught Dawn’s attention. Feeling prompted by the Holy Spirit, she hesitated at first but finally approached her.
“When we asked if we could pray for her, her face lit right up,” Dawn recalled. “I have no idea what happened to her after, but I pray that God will use that little seed.”
For Trudie, 16, the experience was a powerful reminder of the joy in serving Jesus.
“My favorite part was helping at Salvation Army,” she said. “But a big moment for me was having conversations with people at The Banquet and Church on the Street. It was fun to connect with unfamiliar people.”
Urban Plunge, though brief, leaves a lasting impact. The students returned home reminded of what truly matters—compassion, connection, and the call to serve.
