A special invitation from an 8-year-old

Recently, I was invited to dinner by an 8-year-old child we serve.

He excitedly shared that he would be making his special homemade macaroni and cheese...the best I would ever have.

With pride and joy, he told me how he would serve me, not as someone in need, but simply as a host welcoming a guest.

What stood out most to me was not the invitation itself, but the perspective behind it.

To him, there is no difference between his life and anyone else’s.

His camp trailer is his home, and within it, he experiences family, pride, and belonging...just like any other child.

This moment is a powerful reminder that the individuals and families we serve are not defined by their circumstances or where they live.