31 days until PanZOu closes due to lack of funding. We’ll have to lay off 5 street outreach specialists, a job developer, family support specialist, assistant director, grants coordinator, and 7 former gang members that now work for us. We have 110 active clients on our caseload that are depending on us for help changing their lives around. Every day more kids come for services. In 31 days they will be left on their own to try to find a way out of the holes they have dug for themselves. They have no tools for change – no GED or diplomas, no Id’s or Driver’s Licenses, no job history, no skills, many with no families, and more with no dreams…only hope. And with that, we begin.

Until we don’t anymore. 31 days.

I am asked this all the time. It seems that people really don’t understand. I have been working with gang members over 10 years and so many times I have been struck with the thought “There but for the grace of God go I”.

I have seen it all. Maybe. What I see most is children born into circumstances beyond their control, where they are undeserving and suffering and angry. So often I think to myself is it any wonder this child can commit violence without remorse? Look at what we have created.

Other times I am confused, I cannot figure it out. Young people who have so much more than others gamble it all – for what? Street cred? Kids who are ashamed to be affluent! Embarrassed by being smart!

We are all so mixed up and imperfect. Sometimes we make stupid choices. Sometimes we pay dearly for those. Sometimes we never pay. I push and guide and pray and hopefully get better and better at this vocation I have chosen. No one is beyond hope.

I believe it comes down to this – how much do we value our children? How much do we value the environment our children must live in?

Do we value our neighbor’s children?

Do we mind our own business?

A Night at The IMPROV to Benefit PanZOu’s Youth Programs!!

As many of you know, the economy has hit non-profits hard with limited private and public donations. PanZOu unfortunately is in a severe funding crisis. With over 110 active clients on our caseload, it is imperative we fight to stay open and keep these young people off the streets. PanZOu needs your help!