CreatING sustainablE change for tomorrow.

21% of children in Passaic County are growing up in poverty. Nationwide, a study by Barna states that Generation Z is, “the first truly ‘post-Christian’ generation.” At New Hope, we are investing in the next generation, developing them as leaders, discipling them, and equipping them with skills so they can break through the generational poverty cycle.

CHILDREN OF HOPE

New Hope’s youth ministry begins during the monthly Women of Hope meeting. Many women bring their kids who get to take part in Children of Hope. The purpose of Children of Hope is to intentionally raise up leaders from among the community's children. Through a structured curriculum and theme driven focus, children ages Kindergarten through eighth grade are being equipped to be disciples of Jesus in our society.

New Hope Teen Leaders

As part of New Hope’s holistic approach to community ministry, we have an active high school youth group called The New Hope Teen Leaders. This group meets twice a month to take part in activities and build meaningful relationships. In the midst of the fun, the teens have critical conversations about life, leadership, and their futures. They build their social skills and tackle tough topics like peer pressure, bullying, and relationships. Students also take part in mock-interviews, resume-writing clinics, college fairs and FAFSA workshops. Finally, the group goes on a weekend spiritual retreat each year, an experience which serves as a foundational moment in their faith journey.

Each year, graduating seniors take part in an essay contest, with scholarships being granted to the winners who are pursuing higher education. Upperclassmen also have the opportunity to serve on the Youth Council, the leadership body for the group. Participating teens learn how to work as a team, plan events, and lead a group.

The Marketplace

In order to succeed in school, kids must be properly equipped. Beyond school supplies, every kid deserves to celebrate Christmas with their family. Both these things create a large financial burden on parents. The Marketplace is designed to help families in both of these areas. This program consists of two events during the year, the Christmas Market and School Supply Depot. Participants purchase toys for their children's Christmas gifts and school supplies to prepare their kids for the school year for $5.00 or less, providing choice and dignity. Structuring the program in this way allows for parents to play an active role in acquiring school supplies and choosing Christmas gifts for their kids. In the end, these programs aim to make the parents the hero of the story.