Ring Road--Tony's journey

Ring Road--Tony's journey

It is amazing how God works. I had visited Kisumu, Kenya during my stay in Kenya (1996 to 99) but had never visited Ring Road Orphanage or Church. However, that was all about to change.

In 2005, we were looking to move Dennis Okech to a new work and since he is from the Kisumu area, his heart was to reach out to the youth and people of that area. Dennis had learned very good teaching and youth worker skills while working with youth from Eastleigh and then later Mathare 4A. We had started boys, girls, and teens clubs at both of those places or revived them as the case was at Eastleigh. Our goal was to give the youth Jesus through Bible study, sports, and games or activities.

During my stay in Kenya, I worked as a coach, but used my players to reach out to the youth of our community and also city to teach Jesus and Bible lessons as well as basketball. Dennis was one of the first young men I taught basketball to in 1992, in our first ever Christian BB Camp. Later while living there, he played for us. Now he was reaching out to the youth, using singing, sports, and teaching Christian values.

In 2005, Dennis and I visited Kisumu on a survey trip. We visited several churches, but by far, our heart was drawn to one church-- the Ring Road Church and Day School for Orphans. One of the things that so impressed me, was the fact that this day school for orphans was started by local Kenyans. (Jared, Thomas, James, and others)

Jared, the director, tells this story, so I invite you to read that under history of the Ring Road Orphanage. What a beautiful way that God touched his and other young men's heart. I truly believe this is the reason for the success of this day school, as these men have ownership, and personally have invested themselves, as well as allowing God to be in control.

My part has been minimal, but I am thankful to God and Jared and others for allowing me to help partner with them as they reach out to these young people. It is such a blessing to just visit and see these children and see their joy because they are so thankful to have a place they can call their own.

Last summer while visiting ( my first day there), I looked out to see the children playing and laughing at break time, and just begin to cry. We are so spoiled and giving so much, but here these children have so little, yet they are so happy. Happy to be in school and have someone who loves them and cares for them and looks out for them. Thank you Jared and Staff and supporters.

My plans are to be involved as long as God allows.

Dennis and I have partnered with the school and church to provide activities for the youth of Ring Road, but also of the community. We are involved in outreach using sports and activities. He also teaches and is doing a wonderful job. Please read his blog to see what specific things God is doing.

As Dennis mentions in his blog, we would like to provide college type education or place to attend, using computers and other technology in the future. Please pray for all of this and that God opens ways for this to happen.
God bless,
Coach Tony