The opportunities to help kids in surrounding communities are countless....it might help you make the best decision to consider--
- How far am I willing to travel?
- Am I willing to to be involved with individuals where there has been abuse?
- Do I want to use my medical skills?
- Do I want a one to one or group setting?
- Do I want direction from God?
- Do I want a relationship with the children or need distance?
- Can I tolerate having my heart broken?
- What constraints are there for time, expense, energy?
As a burned-out expert in child abuse, I wanted to avoid that. Knowing that relationship-based help is the most effective for the child, I wanted that. After receiving God's direction, I approached a young mother in the church and became her friend. She is sole support in a household with her mother, sibling and two children. There are countless ways to help, one of which is a sort of Godmother role, in relationship with the children and giving everyone in the family new opportunities.
I'm no mother theresa, so I set limits that allow me to enjoy the role I'm in.