For the past four weekends, Lori Masonia’s youth ministry program — “Boys to Men” and “Girls to Pearls” — has united local youth struggling with their own unique set of challenges, with adult Christian mentors looking to guide them toward a brighter future.

“Most of these kids don’t have dads that are active in their lives, let alone a good paternal figure,” Masonia told The News Courier. “Some of these kids are in foster care and have never even met their parents. We’ll never know what they are going through on a daily basis, but I know that this program is changing their lives for the better.”

Since the weekly youth ministry started on Oct. 12 at Lincoln Bridgeforth Park, Massonia mentioned that they have seen continued growth in their attendance — from both kids and mentors — every Saturday.

“I believe we only had 17 people show up the first Saturday, and we are already up to 42 people now,” Masonia said. “We’ve had the community’s support as well, like Marco’s Pizza donated pizza for the kids to eat and coolers full of water to drink. There’ve been so many people who’ve wanted to get involved and help. It has been unbelievable to see how everyone has embraced this event each and every week.”

From studying the fine-tuned art of how to properly tie a necktie, to learning the nuanced ins-and-outs of the game of basketball, Masonia has helped create an innovative program dedicated to the positive growth of the next generation.

The event is held every Saturday from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the park located at 815 Westview Ave. According to Masonia, the program is free for kids of all ages.

“This has truly been Faith in action and I believe it’s only going to keep on growing” Masonia said. “We know God is making waves for us, and it’s always interesting to see who will raise their hand and step up for these kids next. No matter whatever happens, each child is going to leave with a new mentor to talk to.”

Masonia also said that they are currently looking for a place to host the event as the temperature outdoors gets colder. She said that she hopes to get connected with a local church that may have a recreational community center or auxiliary gymnasium to keep the program going over the winter.

“This is all about helping these kids have a relationship with God and knowing they can do anything they set their minds on through Christ,” Masonia said. “That’s what our mission is all about. There’s nothing these kids can’t do — and we won’t let whatever challenges they face now stop them from having a successful life in the future.”

To contact Masonia for more information, call (256)-374-3202.