Monique has one of the biggest, brightest smiles you’ll ever see. And she has good reason for her big grin, too. She got to serve as an intern in the Mission’s Summer KIDS Camp literacy program for children grades K-4, and she is helping to change many young lives for the better.

“I can’t stop smiling because I’m just so happy to be here working with these kids at the Mission,” she said. “I believe it’s going to make a big difference in their lives.”

Monique knows what she’s talking about. The Mission’s programs – thanks to our donors — made a big difference in her own life and that of her family.

Monique is the 7th of 8 siblings who began coming to the Mission years ago to get help for their family. Along the way, they received food, clothing, and even a donated vehicle. They also participated in many of the Mission’s programs for children and youths, including the summer literacy camp.

Those programs changed the course of her life. “Without a doubt the Mission helped me become who I am today,” she says. “It taught me about good character, about giving back and staying strong in my faith.”

Now a young adult, Monique was thrilled to help the children improve their reading skills develop good character traits. “It’s great to see them growing and improving,” she says. “The Mission did so much for me and my family and it’s great to be able to give something back. I’m so thankful!”