Founded by Luis and Tricia Reyes in 1997, Sidewalk Sunday School is a solution to the ills facing children in the Chicagoland area. As a native of Waukegan, IL and one who experienced academic struggles that stemmed from poverty, family dysfunction and lack of educational support, Luis Reyes understands first-hand how educational crisis lies at the core of reaching children and changing communities.
For over 17 years, the Reyes have led Sidewalk Sunday School in a prevention driven approach to navigate children beyond the boundaries of their circumstances through solutions designed to address spiritual, educational, practical and nutritional needs. The Sidewalk Sunday School approach Is successful because it is personal, consistent, and intense. It has impacted the lives of well over a quarter of a million children and teens.
When Pastor Louie met me, I was 5 years old and I was angry all the time. I hated my life but I loved Sidewalk Sunday School. Because of my anger, I often got into trouble for fighting with other kids. Pastor Louie would always tell me, “God has a plan for your life Jessica and He will take that anger away from you.” Pastor Louie’s words came true when I joined Teen Leadership and confidence replaced my insecurity.
I finally started to see how God could use me! Today, I’ve earned a Pastoral Ministry degree from a college in Ohio, and I’m nearing completion of my second degree through the School of Ministry! I’m serving the children of Sidewalk Sunday School as an education coordinator, bus driver, and children’s minister. I am not angry anymore and I LOVE MY LIFE!
As the youngest in my family, I witnessed a lot as my home was filled with drugs, violence and neglect. My big brother carried me to Sidewalk Sunday School on his shoulders every week when I was 3 years old, and I’ve been attending ever since. As I was a street kid, I knew that I couldn’t make it on my own as I saw family members end up in jail. I kept getting on the bus for Sidewalk Sunday School and joined Teen Leadership as soon as I turned 12 years old. By the time I was 16, my family was moving out of state, and I turned to Sidewalk Sunday School and Pastor Louie. I moved into the Sidewalk Sunday School Boys Home and completed High School, and am now a 2nd year School of Ministry student. I also just obtained my license to drive a bus, so I can reach out to kids like me! I was that street kid that was rescued from the streets by Sidewalk Sunday School! Thank You!
Help us Reach more children by being a monthly partner today! You CAN change a child's life
Reach A Generation | A Church of Joy Outreach
2000 Western Ave.
Waukegan, IL 60087
ph: (847) 731-2117
fax: (847) 731-2230
www.reachageneration.com
email: info@thenewchurchofjoy.com