Youth For Christ Support of Off-Broadway Family Outreach

God's story of A Maze 'NGrace!

A recording given by Josh Roe — Director of Youth For Christ, at the Celebration, June 1, 2007 Re: their support of Off-Broadway Family Outreach (OBFO)

Thank you all for being here tonight to support the amazing work of the Off Broadway Family Fellowship (OBFO). I am sorry I could not be here as I am herding a group of YFC kids on a trip to Big Splash (a youth outreach event in Tacoma). I am with you as a brother in the Spirit of our Lord.

Throughout the evening you have heard stories of lives that have been touched and changed as a result of the Off Broadway ministry. Let me share with you a story of how the Lord weaved together a tapestry of people and lives to touch hundreds of kids in West Central Spokane. Let me set the stage . . .

In August of 2002 two kids (Josh Roe and Mary Scheuerman), who had no idea what they were doing, came to Spokane with nothing more than a vision to reach at-risk young people in high poverty neighborhoods. We knew we were called to start by pouring our time and energy into the West Central neighborhood, but had an uphill battle ahead of us. One full year was spent networking, raising money, praying, begging, crying and pulling out hair — and doing nothing with kids. We wanted to build the ministry on a solid foundation.

By August of 2003 a foundation (though a bit shaky) was in place and it was time to start meeting with kids. Right as this decision was being made and we were wrestling with how in the world to start connecting with kids in West Central Spokane we received a phone call from a good friend John Tusant. John informed us that a group of people, with a huge heart for the West Central neighborhood, had launched a weekly Bible Study that included dinner, worship and a message. We were informed that about 70 people were coming each week, but the problem was that many of them were kids. Off Broadway needed help!!

We immediately called Larry and set up a time to meet. Within a week Jan, Larry, Josh and Mary were sitting together in a meeting that was anointed by the Lord. As we met we began to unfold unbelievable connections that we shared as well as hearts, vision and passion for ministry. By the end of our meeting it was set, YFC would have it's launching pad as a partner with Off Broadway.

One week later Josh and Mary rallied 8 kids, mostly junior high age, on the front lawn of 2211 West Broadway. And so City Life Club was born!! Fast forward 4 years . . . in the past 12 months YFC has had some intentional connection with over 350 young people, ages 11-19, in the West Central Neighborhood of Spokane.

This would never have happened if it weren't for the vision of Jan, Larry and friends at Off Broadway. It would never have happened if it hadn't been for their obedience to a calling and intense devotion to invest time, talent and treasure no matter the circumstances.

The birthing of YFC through Off Broadway is the result of partnership and connection, of communication and collaboration and a wonderful example of Kingdom ministry. This is a blessing that comes from an abiding trust in the promises of Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit. This is a body with many parts . . . this is community!!

Thank you for considering ways you can support the exciting work of the Off Broadway Family Outreach. On behalf of the YFC team and the kids we serve.

thank you!!

For the kids . . .

Josh Roe
YFC Director/Spokane