PREP4Kids

I Remember Wondering If This Was Worth My Time

2011-03-31T12:36:00.000-07:00

Glennis Coulter: (Continued from the latest newsletter)

Some years we had thirty students, some years twelve or sixty. Then there was the year we had only 6 boys, many of whom came only to get out of class. But there were the special ones that you knew God had their attention by the way they listened. You pray each year that God will hold onto each one as you may only get them for a month till their parents move or they graduate into middle school.

The year with the six boys was especially discouraging. I remember going home one day after school wondering if this was worth my time and effort, when God quietly brought to my mind, "We walk by faith and not by sight." We fervently prayed for more students. The next year God answered and sent us twelve boys!

(Picture from Ladd Acres PREP4Kids class)

Because we had only women on our team, we planned two summer outings with some men from my church. One day was planned for hiking and canoeing. The boys had a blast, but I spent the day counting heads to be sure none were left or lost from this wild, crazy bunch. God got us all back home safe and sound.

God is impressing on me that we work for an invisible God who works in invisible hearts and is totally in charge of the work and the results! I think otherwise I could be tempted to claim result as if they were due to my efforts.

What I Like Most!

2011-02-22T16:21:00.000-08:00

“What I like most about PREP is it teaches you a lot about the Bible and the stories about the people in it. I also like that it helps me understand more about Jesus. The stories are really valuable & informational. Now, because of PREP I know & understand more about the Bible and everyone in it.” Anayla, 5th grade

In a recent letter from Luis Palau, he stated,
“Our hope lies in the Lord...but also in our young people. If we don’t take the message of Christ to them…..if we don’t model for them the importance and power of evangelism...who will?”

Merry Christmas

2010-12-15T15:59:00.000-08:00

PREP4Kids classes are enjoying the wonderful story of Jesus birth during the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Are your children able to enjoy the Reason for the Season with their friends each week? Let the PREP4Kids office know if you would like to enroll your student/s or start a class for your child's school.

(Picture taken from Firm Foundations/PREP4Kids curriculum)

PREP4Kids Class in Oregon City

2010-04-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

Is PREP4Kids Making a Difference?

2010-04-21T13:54:00.000-07:00

"I had lots of problems before I came to PREP. Now I'm doing good. I'm having a blast. I teach my brother about Jesus." Jason, Grade 5

"PREP has changed my life; it's the only place I want to go to learn about God. PREP has showed me things I wouldn't have learned if I didn't come here." Vitalis, Grade 4

"What PREP means to me is it is a place to come learn about God. So far I have learned that Jesus loves me and about in the beginning." Haley, Grade 5

Sharing PREP4Kids at Starbucks!

2010-02-24T13:30:00.000-08:00

"Just wanted to share that a young mom of a 3 year old and a baby saw my PREP4Kids shirt at Starbucks and asked me about it. She was excited to know that there was something like this offered around here. She is looking at Christian preschools right now, but probably will be putting her kids in public schools someday. It was a nice sharing time, and I didn't even initiate it!"

So...... Wear your PREP4Kids t-shirts!!

from our Sherwood Coordinator, Kacy Glenn

2010-02-18T12:03:00.000-08:00

BE ENCOURAGED…
God answers prayer!

“Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God is with you.” 1 Chronicles 28:20

It would be easy to get discouraged by the fact that we have lost PREP4Kids volunteers in some classes; or the fact that many classes have dwindled in size since the Christmas break; or the fact that teachers are telling children not to leave class to attend PREP4Kids.
But consider this fact ...
GOD ANSWERS PRAYER!
Let’s remember to be specific in our praying, not generalize. Ezra assembled the people of Israel to return them to Jerusalem. But first they humbled themselves before God asking Him for a safe journey: “So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer…the hand of our God was on us, and he protected us from enemies and bandits along the way”. Ezra 8:23,31
God indeed answers prayer—according to His will--when we come to him with specific prayer requests.
For example:
· David & Darlene Mai presented the urgent need for more volunteers by showing the PREP4Kids DVD to their church. As a result 3 new volunteers responded!
GOD ANSWERS PRAYER!
· The Tualatin/Byrom class had to postpone starting up in the fall due to not having enough volunteers to hold a class. But God brought 3 new volunteers as a result of the Celebration Dinner so that this class is re-opening this month!
GOD ANSWERS PRAYER!
· Shaun Dyler, volunteer in the Deer Creek class, felt God leading him to start a PREP4Kids class at Twality Middle School…first time PREP4Kids has been in a middle school in 8 years! That class opened this fall, currently with 9 students, with overwhelming support from the school and staff.

GOD ANSWERS PRAYER!
THANK YOU prayer supporters, who continually pray for His workers in the harvest field.

Be Encouraged, and keep praying for PREP4Kids because . . . GOD ANSWERS PRAYER!

THANK YOU

2010-02-03T11:45:00.000-08:00

Thank You for encouraging your children to grow in godly ways. Attending PREP4Kids class is a positive approach to life as we all look to God's Word for instruction in how to be a part of changing our world.

Memorable Evening!

2009-12-03T12:40:00.000-08:00

The celebration of 25 years of Reaching Kids4Christ was a wonderful time of looking back at what God has done, what He is doing now and the many children He will reach in the coming years. The growth we have seen since 2007 (22 schools) to 2009 (39 schools!) is amazing! Praise God with us for the thousands of children who now know who God is and that He has a plan for their lives. Odon is just one of those children whose life has been changed and as a result his whole family has come to know Jesus as Savior and become part of a local church.

Celebration Dinner 2009

2009-11-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

What a great Celebration was had by all 250 of us at our 25th Anniversary, Nov. 7th. Be watching for pictures to be added soon!

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

2009-10-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

PREP4Kids is CELEBRATING 25 YEARS REACHING KIDS4CHRIST

God is still showing His faithfulness through PREP4Kids as students

in public schools are taught the Word of God each week.

This year there are 35 schools where students are learning from the book of Genesis.

"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."

Genesis 1:1

PARADE PICTURES

2009-08-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

SUMMER WITH PREP4Kids

2009-08-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

This summer was a busy time for everyone. Entering community parades has been a great opportunity to share PREP4Kids with neighborhoods. Parades in Oregon City, Sherwood, Gladstone, Tualatin and Banks were well attended. Children walked, rode bikes, wagons and in one parade a golf cart! Each one wore a PREP4Kids t-shirt, helping advertise the program to new families. The weather was great and the crowds were responsive. Children threw candy and the adults handed out fliers with PREP4Kids information (and in one parade PREP pens-NO LITTER!) In September Beaverton and Gresham will host parades also. We all enjoy sharing the opportunity for children to attend a Bible class during their school day, and parades are wonderfully 'kid-friendly' ways to do it!

Tualatin & Byrom Students

2009-03-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

Tualatin and Byrom students are totally engaged as teacher Sheila Gardner shows a video to illustrate the transformation that happens in our lives when we trust Christ as Savior. Sheila also read from her Bible the places the Apostle Paul visited on his journeys, while the children plotted the cities on their own maps.

A few weeks ago the students planted beans in plastic cups filled with dirt. Sheila made the analogy of planting seeds of God's Word in their lives. Each week they check to see any progress. The little plants are just starting to pop up, so the kids think that's great! They planted some extras in case new kids came . . . they were just put into use . . . so very good planning! Interactive lessons are important to keep the kids learning and growing.

2009-03-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

NEW CLASS BEGINNING APRIL 15th in LAKE OSWEGO!

Beginning Wednesday, April 15, the Lake Oswego Christian Center will host a class for Bryant Elementary School students!

This is an answer to prayer which began last summer--that there would be 30 schools with PREP4Kids classes during this school year. Pray for them as they begin.

2009-03-05T23:50:00.001-08:00

PREP4Kids Volunteers are CREATIVE!!!
Juanita Buckles crafts a poster each week (related to the Bible Class Lesson: John 1:5) and Raffles it off to the class.
Each student gets a ticket The winner is discovered, and, with great ceremony, gets to take the poster home!

2009-02-12T13:43:00.000-08:00

Dick Clark, PREP4Kids coordinator, purchased "The Easter Story Cube" to give out to Ventura Park PREP4Kids students.
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Creative gifts that present the true meaning of Easter is an excellent way of getting God's words into the hearts and homes of PREP4Kids students.
Great idea Dick!

2009-02-10T10:43:00.000-08:00

Scripture memory is an important piece of the PREP4Kids Bible Class. Here Trevor Lancaster is listening to a student reciting Romans 4:8.

Do You Want To Share Christ With The Nations?

2009-01-13T14:36:00.000-08:00

Portland-area public schools bring together
children from all over the world:
Asia, Russia, Africa, Latin America,
Europe and the United States.
Many of these children have never held a Bible in their hands
or heard of Jesus Christ in a positive way.

God has opened the doors for sharing about Christ
to all nationalities and ethnicities
through the local public school children in your neighborhood.

A school near you may not have a PREP4Kids program.

For more information about the opportunity for your neighborhood school,
contact the PREP office at 503-281-7764,
or look for opportunities on the website at www.prep4kids.org

Westside Coordinators Meeting

2008-12-07T22:08:00.000-08:00

Everyone enjoyed hearing from other coordinators how their classes are going. Lots of ideas were exchanged on what works in such a short time. Peg, Shannon, Angela and Lori had great suggestions. We plan to use this format again! Hope you can all come next time...Save the first week in February for the next one.

NEW PREP4Kids Class Emerging

2008-11-20T13:30:00.000-08:00

A new PREP4Kids class has formed on the East Side! The Tremont Evangelical Church has marshaled a team to provide a Released-time Bible Class for a neighboring elementary School!
Much work has already been done. The Start date is January 8, 2009. Please be praying for Bonnie Brantly (new Coordinator) as she works with the PREP office and her team. Pray for the students who are signed up to come, and those who are yet to be signed up.

Praise God for new beginnings!

PREP4Kids Fundraising Banquet 2008

2008-11-16T05:38:00.000-08:00

If you were unable to attend the PREP4Kids Fundraising Dinner at the DoubleTree Inn in Portland on October 25th, here is a glimpse of the evening. See our post from 10-30 to hear a little more about it.

VIPs Visit PREP4Kids Class

2008-11-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

Two "Very Important People" (VIP's) visited the PREP4Kids Oregon City Bible Class this week: Linette Montecalvo, from Sonrise Church is interested in seeing a Released-time Bible class start for the Quatama Elementary School (Hillsboro). Josh Wert, from Tremont Evangelical Church is a parent of a public school student who would like to see a PREP4Kids class available for his daughter.
We thank God for these NEW PEOPLE!!! They bring added depth and enthusiasm to this work.

Dave The Driver: Oregon City PREP4Kids

2008-11-07T14:02:00.000-08:00

Dave, the Driver, is an extremely valuable member of the Oregon City PREP4Kids Bible Class. He makes sure the students make it safely from school to the church and back again.
Students are always watching their leaders. This student (left) seems to be trying to get Dave's attention as he waits for everyone to get on board. The time our students have with the faithful Christian helpers and drivers helps create good memories. The "servant's heart" and positive attitudes our helpers demonstrate add credibility to the Bible lesson(s).
Thanks for all you're doing Dave!

Humboldt PREP4Kids Class: Opening Hearts and Minds in North Portland

2008-11-04T13:32:00.000-08:00

Donna Gaither (teaching) and Patsy Booze (left foreground) are giving their time and talents to teach students of the Humboldt Elementary School. See how this teacher gets on eye-level with her students when asking questions? She is an expert at giving full attention.

PREP4Kids Fundraising Dinner a Huge Success!

2008-11-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

What a Praise-filled evening was had by all who attended the PREP4Kids Fundraising Dinner on October 25 at the Lloyd Center Doubletree Hotel.

God is so good to use all of us to Praise His Name by reaching out to public school students in the Greater Metro Area of Portland. Three hundred and fifty people attended to hear what God is doing in the public schools.

Master of Ceremonies Dennis Hayes kept the program moving along with his delightful comments and introductions! Keynote Speaker Stephen Williams with "Prepare the Way" Ministries was so encouraging as he shared how individuals can make a difference in the public schools across the nation. It is up to us to be involved in any way we can to be "salt and light" to our community through the schools. Music and testimonies kept us involved in the program and helped all of us identify ways we can make a difference.

PREP4Kids is "No Longer the Best Kept Secret"!

Multnomah Bible College Students Join PREP4Kids Bible Class at Clark-Binnsmead

2008-10-07T16:00:00.001-07:00

Matt Gillander, from Paradise CA
Alicia Reando, from Fairbanks AK
and
Liz Viles, from Prineville, OR
Have volunteered to Teach, Lead Music, and Help the PREP4Kids class at Clark-Binnsmead!
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These are students from the Multnomah Bible College.
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We love having you working with us!

PREP4KIDS FUNDRAISING DINNER

2008-10-03T12:02:00.000-07:00

An exciting evening is planned:
Saturday, October 25, 2008. 6:00 pm
Doubletree Hotel, Lloyd Center
1000 NE Multnomah St., Portland, OR 97212

For too long Christians have said the public schools are a mess and we can't see any way to change them. Stephen Williams, of Prepare the Way Ministries, will be sharing how Christians can make a difference in our public schools.

Dennis Hays, Salem Broadcasting General Manager, will be the Master of Ceremonies.

Special Music by Ron and Epi Casey and Felicia Ward.

Many new friends will be joining us to learn how God is working to grow the ministry of PREP4Kids in the whole metropolitan area. The goal for this year is 10 new schools. Seven new schools have been added so far, with more in the wings. You can help us make a difference in children's lives in more new schools!

Make your reservations today!
Call us at 503-281-7764 or e-mail us at prepoffice@prep4kids.org.

PREP4Kids Cookbook!

2008-10-03T11:58:00.000-07:00

Are you enjoying your new PREP4Kids Cookbook? I sure am! Most of my menus for the last two weeks have come from the new PREP4Kids Cookbook.

If you don't have one, you can call the PREP4Kids office, 503-281-7764, and we will get one to you!

They will also be for sale at the PREP4Kids Fundraising Dinner
October 25, 2008
6:00 pm
Doubletree Hotel Lloyd Center
1000 NE Multnomah St., Portland, OR 97212

Make your reservations today!

"SHAPING KIDS HEARTS FOR LIFE"

2008-10-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

Shhh! I know a secret. And it’s a GOOD one. Have you ever known a piece of information that you are just bursting to tell to someone, but you know you have to keep a secret? You and your spouse are expecting a baby…you’re getting a promotion but your co-workers aren’t… Well, MY secret is not that kind of secret. THIS secret is one that can be shared. Actually, if you are reading this, I think you already know the secret. All public school children in Oregon can hear the Word of God taught during their school day each week! The PREP4Kids ministry has faithfully made use of this law in Oregon since 1984. However, if you asked an average church-goer in the Portland area what PREP4Kids is, they probably couldn’t tell you. Our PREP staff and volunteers are always finding themselves explaining to acquaintances what this ministry is. And the response is usually something like, “Really? I didn’t know you could do that.”

Well, we can do it! It may be the ‘the Portland area’s best-kept secret.’ But the thing is, we are unwilling to keep it a secret any longer!

On Saturday, October 25, PREP4Kids will be hosting its first-ever fundraising banquet at the Doubletree Inn Lloyd Center, 1000 NE Multnomah, Portland. The purpose of the dinner is to inform a broader base of people that PREP4Kids exists, and to explain how more people can get involved – whether by praying, giving, volunteering or spreading the news themselves. Our 3 goals are to: 1) familiarize 250-300 people with the ministry, 2) raise $35,000 for PREP4Kids, and 3) gain 50 new donors.

PREP4Kids has been in many schools off and on since its beginning in 1984, and has helped shape countless young hearts to know and love the Lord. We currently hold classes in 25 of the 225 schools in the tri-county area. are working with volunteers for 10 more schools this school year.

Help us share the secret that God is at work “Shaping kids hearts for life” thru PREP4Kids!

Pray for God to fill every table at the Dinner.

Sponsor a table to cover the costs for all who attend (or go in with a group!). We would like 5 more Table Sponsors. $400 covers the cost of one table of ten. Contact the PREP4Kids office for more information.

Come, and bring your friends!

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION TODAY!
Call the PREP4Kids Office: 503-281-7764 or

e-mail us at prepoffice@prep4kids.org

PREP4Kids is NOT just a city of Portland Ministry!
PREP4Kids is reaching families in elementary schools in
CLACKAMAS, MULTNOMAH, & WASHINGTON Counties!

Parents Have A Responsibility To Teach Their Children God's Word

2008-09-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 is a mandate for all parents to teach their children God's Word.
When we read Hebrews 4:12 we are reminded how powerful God's Word is.
A young man cleanses his way by paying attention to God's Word: Psalm 119:9.
We want our kids to have the best --So let's give them the pathway of Righteousness! Proverbs 12:28.

Fall Kick-off Brunch

2008-08-15T15:56:00.000-07:00

September 6, 2008 is the date!

9:30 - 11:00 AM is the time!

Riverside Golf and Country Club is the place!

Plan to join us for a great time, enjoying together what God is doing in PREP4Kids as we look forward to classes starting in just 6 weeks!

Cookbooks - $10.00, T-shirts - $10.00, and Entertainment Books - $20.00, will all be for sale!

Call 503-281-7764 or e-mail prepoffice@prep4kids.org to make your reservation today!

2008-07-31T14:02:00.000-07:00

Please pray for the Clark/Binnsmead PREP4Kids Bible Class. This has been a long-standing and very effective class. Recently, Portland Public Schools has chosen to re-locate students from the Clark Elementary school to the Binnsmead school.
Binnsmead is now 0.8 mi away from its PREP4Kids Classroom.
Our challenge is: How do we get our students to their Bible Class? We need Drivers? We need a closer location? We need God's help adapting to this change. Thank you for praying.

2008-07-25T15:20:00.000-07:00

Diane met with the bankers at Pacific Continental Bank today to hammer out the details of getting PREP4Kids ready to accept Credit and Bank-card Donations.

She also took the opportunity to share two of the PREP4Kids cookbooks with her friends at the bank!

Go Diane! You're doing a great job!

Workers Preparing for Harvest

2008-07-18T10:06:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful week we've had here at the PREP4Kids office, welcoming close to 90 volunteers through our doors for training! Diane encouraged us from the book of Psalms to see ourselves and the kids we minister to as God sees them....precious in His sight and specially designed for His use. Amy ushered us through this year's curriculum in the book of Acts and even taught us some new songs! We reviewed classroom and safety policies so that the children entrusted to us will be safe and well-taught. Willis debuted our new and improved website, which now has so many helpful tools for parents, volunteers, and people new to PREP4Kids. Diane also shared exciting news about the future of PREP...radio advertising and our first major fundraising banquet. We can now confidently look ahead to the new school year, knowing we have been well-trained to do the work that God has called us to do.

"The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:37-38

Coming Events

2008-07-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

July 14 - 18, 2008

All Volunteers will be attending a Training Session for one day this week. All classes will be held from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. Be sure to bring a sandwich!

It is a great time for getting to know others who are working with classes for other schools. Lots of exciting things are happening that you will want to know about. There are many new ways to share the opportunity with those who may not know about PREP4Kids. Come and learn the part you can play in presenting the Word of God to children who are eager to know about Jesus.

Thank You PREP Volunteers!

2008-06-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

Thank you for graciously giving your time and energy to show Christ to Gladstone children!
Our daughter has grown more through PREP than she ever has in Sunday School. We may cover her in prayer and teach her at home, but you teach her at a time when she is ready to learn. We have watched with amazement as she reaches out to her non-Christian friends to invite them to PREP. What a wonderful blessing for her to be learning life-style evangelism in such a natural way. (And her teacher reports that they started with one child attending and now there are 5 just from this one class!)

We all have a part in the harvest and God is the one in charge of how it all fits together. It's so amazing to watch His hand at work in my child's life and those of her friends. Thank you for being willing to serve!

The Anderson Family

Teamwork

2008-04-27T22:22:00.000-07:00

One of the neat things about PREP4Kids classes is watching the students bond with each other as they learn about God. Last week at our Dilley class, the kids worked in small groups on review puzzles to stay fresh on previous weeks' memory verses and stories. As they worked together, the kids showed great cooperation and teamwork and "spurred each other on to good deeds." These students will now take the relationships they've formed at PREP back to school, where they'll have an extra support system set in place. The friendships children make at PREP4Kids will stay with them well into the future!

PREP4Kids: Serving Portland for over 20 years.

2008-04-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

View Larger Map

2008-04-21T09:59:00.001-07:00

The Harold Oliver PREP has a very elaborate
Treasure Chest with a wide variety of gifts.
Students who earn "two punches" --memorize two verses--
get to pick a prize.

Vicky Sings

2008-03-14T23:35:00.000-07:00

Susan Prays

2008-03-14T17:02:00.000-07:00

PREP Portland Released-time Education Program

2008-03-10T09:07:00.001-07:00

Newest Staff Member

2008-02-26T14:28:00.000-08:00

Willis Ward has accepted the position of Eastside Area Director. He will visit the PREP4Kids classes meeting on the East side of the Willamette River on a regular basis. His oversight of these classes will help each volunteer to be more connected to the PREP4Kids office and help in reporting needs each class may have, I.e. prayer needs, materials, and questions about procedures, etc.

Willis joins Angela Toyer who has been the Westside Area Coordinator since February 2007.

They are both visiting churches in their respective areas, connecting them with schools where there are no PREP4Kids classes. Our goal is 10 new schools this year. Pray with us as we work toward this goal.

If you know of a church where a class could be held, contact the PREP4Kids office at 503-281-7764 or e-mail us at prepoffice@prep4kids.org

What Would You Do?

2008-02-13T15:52:00.000-08:00

Last week, kids from Scholls Heights Elementary learned the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10. Did you know Jesus was showing it would be impossible for anyone to love perfectly...loving God with all their heart, soul, strength, and mind? It's only through a relationship with Christ and having His love inside of us that we have the ability to love, especially in difficult circumstances.

Later, students were given several scenarios where kids were teased, stolen from, gossiped about, or otherwise treated unfairly. When asked how they would respond, some were honest and said, "I know the right thing to do, but I wouldn't want to do it!" Most relented when asked, "How would Jesus want you to handle it?"

If someone cut you off in traffic and then later wanted to merge into your lane, would you let them? If a friend deeply betrayed you, would you forgive and love them anyway? Knowing what God wants us to do and using the strength He provides will help all of us to love the way we should. What a great lesson for kids to learn this early in life!

PRESS RELEASE!

2008-02-11T11:05:00.000-08:00

Scholls Heights PREP4Kids has a new coordinator.

Bridget Clarke will take over from Laurie Thorschmidt as Coordinator this month. After enrolling her son last school year, she began driving students to and from the class each week. We really look forward to working with Bridget as she shares her passion for released time Bible classes with other parents in the Scholls Heights neighborhood.

We thank Laurie Thorschmidt for a wonderful job of coordinating the volunteers working with this class for several years. However, she is now working full-time and must turn over the responsibility. She will continue taking time from her job each week to drive students to and from PREP4Kids class.

There is a huge need for drivers in this class and many of our westside classes! Could you give one hour a week to help? Call the PREP4Kids office, 503-281-7764, or check out the website for more information: http://www.prep4kids.org/

It's Raining, It's Pouring....

2008-02-01T14:17:00.000-08:00

This week, God delivered plenty of "liquid sunshine" to the Portland area, but thankfully the rain doesn't seem to keep any of our PREP kids from coming to class! These kids from John Wetten Elementary in Gladstone happily walk
the 2 blocks from school to their PREP4Kids class at a local church, rain or shine. At some of our other classes, volunteers drive the kids to and from the schools. It's a neat opportunity to bring public school kids to a warm, safe environment where they can learn about God's love for them.

Here's what a few of our students had to say about PREP recently:

"What I have learned about Jesus is fantastic! I like PREP because it is really fun learning about Jesus and learning from the Bible." Elisabeth

"I like PREP because my friends are there..." Sarah

"I like PREP because of the singing, lessons, frog box, quiet seat award, and the teachers. Well, a shorter way to say it is: I LOVE EVERYTHING!" Marenna

2008-01-29T15:02:00.000-08:00

By The Numbers...

400 kids currently enrolled in PREP classes in the greater Portland area.

22 schools with PREP4Kids classes.

140 volunteers to make each class happen.

163 schools left to reach in our current districts.

2 full-time equivalent paid staff members to reach them. (1 full-time, 3 part-time)

1 Almighty, Powerful God to accomplish the task.

+1 person (YOU!) to do your part.

$20 per month. How about it? Can you give to help PREP4Kids introduce more children to Jesus?

#2 Coordinator's Meeting

2008-01-14T14:47:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wanted to learn the "Ten Commandments" with motions?

Chris and Andrea taught us new motions (they made them up for their class)! It was lots of fun to watch them and just sing along.

The PREP Kids love this song and ask for it all the time. It sure makes it easier to remember all the commandments in order.

We are looking for new volunteers who can work with a school in their neighborhood. It is such a privilege to teach or help in a class during the school day each week. Call the PREP4Kids Office at 503-281-7764 if you are interested in more information. There are thousands of students in the greater Portland area who will come. We just need the volunteers to open the door and invite them in to a church near the school once a week.

#1 Coordinator's Meeting for 2008!

2008-01-11T16:19:00.000-08:00

Diane Siever's hosted a "sweet" coordinator's meeting today 1/11/08 at 0930. The office staff passed out Door prizes, offered teaching tools, and critiqued Curriculum.
Two coordinators demonstrated the hand motions to the "Ten Commandments" song from the PREP music CD. This was the high point of the meeting.
Thanks for the great time you-all! --Willis Ward (John Wetten Elementary, Gladstone PREP)

Why Do I Support PREP4Kids?

2007-12-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

Can you imagine how it feels to be a child who has only a single mom to support him because his father was killed in the war? How do you help him find peace in such a difficult world?

Or siblings who are in a foster home, through no fault of their own! How do you help them find security?

Or your father died recently and then your mother was killed by a drunk driver. Where is God for this family?

The PREP4Kids volunteers are always sharing new situations where they have been used by God to bring HIS LOVE to children and families like these. God's Word has answers that we can share with them! We can be the person who has unconditional love during these times.

PREP4Kids is the best way I know to reach kids today with the Bible during their school day. Every child in the public schools is there for about 30 hours a week. One of those hours is hardly enough time to teach all that God is saying to us in the Bible, but it is amazing how quickly kids realize that the Bible is TRUTH.

Wouldn't you like to be a part of this team? God is leading us to new schools all over the Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington County area. We need volunteers like you who are ready to teach, drive, help by listening to verses or just be a friend to a child.

Check out our website at http://www.prep4kids.org/ or call us at 503-281-7764.

One Link at a Time

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Recently I visited a PREP4Kids class in Beaverton for Fir Grove Elementary. There are about 16 kids that attend this class on a regular basis. A few of the girls were telling me how they heard about PREP.

"I came last year, and I invited her,"said Morgan, pointing to Sarena.

"Yeah, " said Sarena, "and then I invited McKenzie," she added, motioning to another friend.

McKenzie piped up,"And then I invited Jessica!" Jessica told me she had never heard of PREP before.

How do PREP4Kids classes grow? One person at a time!

One child invites another, who invites another, and before you know it, the chain gets longer, classes get bigger, and more kids get to hear about Jesus during their public school day.

What about you? Could you tell one person about PREP, who could then tell another? Let's grow this ministry one link at a time!

My name is Angela Toyer, and I'm the Westside Area Director for PREP4Kids. Look for future updates from me as I visit kids in PREP classes and share their stories.

Those Who Support PREP

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PREP4Kids is endorsed by parents, pastors, Christian lay leaders, local para-church organizations, and people just like you! It is also supported by superintendents and administrators of Oregon public schools.

PREP4Kids is incorporated as a non-profit organziation. The administrative office is located in the heart of NE Portland and functions to help each PREP4Kids program run effectively.

PREP4Kids is supported in prayer by many hundreds of people throughout the area.

PREP4Kids is supported financially by individuals, churches, foundations and grants.

Only one barrier stands between us and accomplishing this initiative... adequate funding to meet the growing needs. With your support and partnership we can dramatically increase the number of children who will have exposure to the word of God as part of their public education each school week.

What experience is more thrilling to a Christian than sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with a child or seeing a child come to a saving faith in Him? How can we leave out any child we might be able to reach? PREP4Kids is an excellent opportunity to reach children who don't have the privilege of attending church or Sunday School!

What is Released-time?

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Oregon law recognizes that a child's education, including religious education, is the parent's responsibility. In line with this, the law allows for children in public schools to be released from school each week, while school is in session, to receive religious instruction.

However, the religious teaching must be off campus, or before or after school. If held during the school day, it must occur during the allowed 120 minutes per week. Classes are usually held at a church close to the school.

Students are allowed by law to make up any work that is missed at school. A report from the National Council on Crime and Delinquency found that children in released-time classes did as well or better academically than their classmates who do not attend.

What are the benefits? The program reinforces the school's existing efforts to help children grow to cherish and care for themselves and others. Curriculum teaches Judeo-Christian values such as honesty, compassion, integrity and loyalty. Human worth and dignity is also being taught, as-well-as basic social skills needed to function productively in our society.

Any child may attend with written permission from a parent/guardian. Released-time classes are held throughout the state of Oregon. The PREP4Kids organization oversees released-time in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties. If there is not a class in your area, the PREP4Kids Staff will work with you to help start a class.

Released-time is permitted in all 50 states! To see where it currently operates throughout the country, visit http://www.rtce.org/ and http://www.releasedtime.org/.

What PREP Kids Are Saying

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"Now that I go to PREP I know a lot more about God. I used to say, 'Oh my god' all the time, but now I don't say it at all. I really like PREP because I'm learning about God and I'm learning stuff I never knew before. So that's why I like PREP!"
--Charvonna, 5th grade

"Something I learned about PREP is about Jesus and God. How we sinned and that he died on the cross for us. I really love PREP and I always can't wait till it's Wednesday."
--Anna, 5th grade

"I love PREP. I go to church every other Sunday and PREP fills in for what I might have missed. I like PREP because I get to learn about God and I have time to worship Him"
--Ashleigh, 4th grade

"I really like how nice all the teachers are. This year I have learned Satan's name is Lucifer, which means Morning Star ... I like how you are teaching us Genesis!"
--Jordan, 5th grade

"PREP to me is about getting to know God more and his commands, [and for] other people to get to know him. I have learned so many things in PREP. Like about Paul, Silas and a lot more. PREP has been so fun to me and I am definitely going to bring more people."
--Kevin, 6th grade

"I like PREP because I like reading stories in my Bible and singing songs and my teacher, and learning about Jesus and God. That's why I like PREP."
--Leslie, 3rd grade(Leslie accepted Jesus into her heart and life in PREP class on 4-4-07)

"I like PREP because I can't go to church and I get to learn about God here."
--Kathryn, 6th grade

"What I like about PREP is that I liked to learn about the life of Paul...I think PREP has encouraged me to do better in school and do the right things. I love PREP!"
--Natalie, 5th grade

"So far PREP has been very fun. Everyone is so nice! I have learned about God and how He is always there for you. I wish I started going when school started. Since I have been going, I trust in God more. It seems like I do braver things because I know God is with me."
--Lindsey, 5th grade

Welcome to the Blog for PREP4Kids!

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What is PREP4Kids?

PREP4Kids is a non-profit ministry that has operated in the greater-Portland, Oregon area for 22 years. PREP's mission is to help children/youth and their families find purpose and direction in life through the study of God's Word.

PREP volunteers teach Bible classes for 20 schools in the tri-county area of Portland. Volunteers fill out an application and background check with three references.

What are the benefits?

Parents can intervene in their child's education where the public school system is lacking. Teaching students Biblical Truths will contribute to the character development of the child and as a result, the moral health of our nation.

We often see children's religious beliefs being compartmentalized and privatized as they move into a public school setting. God as Creator and Sovereign Lord of all of life is taught in PREP4Kids classes as a living reality in their daily school lifestyles.

Students tell us they enjoy meeting new friends and worshipping with their Christian friends at school.

How does it work?

Parents fill out and sign a permission form and return it to the school office. Students are then eligible to attend class. PREP volunteers pick up the forms each week at the school. Students are excused at the appropriate time and walk or are driven to the class site.

Volunteers teach Bible lessons, lead singing, help students memorize verses in many creative ways using skits, art projects, contests, games, worksheets, etc. Then they walk or drive students back to school, where they are dismissed to return home from school by their regular transportation.

Classes are held once a week, usually in the afternoon.

For more information on PREP4Kids visit our website at http://www.prep4kids.org/.