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Youth development is one of the most important pillars in the mission of House of Raeford Farms FLOCK. Since the youth of today will make up the leaders of tomorrow, it is important to provide opportunities for them to grow with confidence and a sense of purpose in their lives.
Eleos Ministry, founded in 2016, has much the same vision for the Nicholtown neighborhood of Greenville, South Carolina. Their mission is “to serve and equip our neighbors in their God-given potential, for the good of our community.” Programs reach students in Nicholtown, equip them as leaders in the way of Jesus, and elevate them into positions of leadership – for the good of their community.
“We were drawn to partner with Eleos because of their faith and focus on positive youth development,” said Curtis Carr, House of Raeford’s Community Outreach Director. “It has been encouraging to see the impact of the ministry over the years. It is especially exciting to see Eleos grow and be able to help more youth in our community better understand the abilities and gifts God has given them, and work to achieve their potential.”
Our connection with Eleos took on new meaning when we learned that one of our Greenville associates, Nurse Niema Riley, recognized the lasting value of this ministry through her five children. Each child participates in camps, after school sessions, field trips, bible studies, volunteering in the community, and so much more. Her 15-year old daughter is even interning this summer, allowing her to mentor and encourage middle school students by sharing her personal experiences. In addition, she is receiving her own training in professional development. Niema describes Eleos “as a second home for children who need a well-rounded, Christian environment to cultivate life skills.”
Grace Bridger serves Eleos Ministry as their Program Director. Starting with the organization in 2019, Grace also is a resident of the Nicholtown neighborhood. She is able to experience first-hand the needs of students, allowing her to develop Eleos programs with a targeted purpose in mind. “The middle and high school years of students are vital, so at Eleos we want to equip and love them holistically during these years,” Bridger said. Drawing on the scripture in 1 John 4:19, ‘We love because He first loved us’, Grace is excited to share with students about how much the Lord truly loves them. “However, sometimes I wonder if they are not shaping us as much as we are shaping them,” Grace continued. “It is humbling to see childlike faith played out in their lives.”
Cam Hill, Executive Director, and his wife Joy, Family Services Coordinator, started their married lives together in Nicholtown in 2013. They are passionate about creating community and building relationships with neighbors. “We are so thankful for the faithful and generous support of House of Raeford for several years now,” Cam shared. “We mean it when we say that we could not do this work without you! Thanks for a business that is clearly committed to our community!”
