Gymnastics benefits our program in several ways:
•    Provides a skill building program for kids
•    Provides health/wellness/self-esteem building activities
•    Provides access to new opportunities that aren’t prominent in the community
•    Builds the children’s network of healthy adult mentors (YOU)
•    Provides an excellent and safe activity that can serve as an alternative to the street and unsafe activities

What do the girls say about gymnastics?
•    ”I’m not as scared of the beam as I used to be”
•    ”Mr. Paul is nice”
•    ”I can do brave things on the bars”
•    ”It’s fun”
•    ”I like doing cartwheels and hand-stands”
•    ”I can’t wait to jump on the trampoline in the summer.”

Breakthrough has a “Behind the Scenes” tour coming up on May 2nd, before they kick off a capitol campaign later in May. More information is available on their website.

What times do you offer summer camps?

Our summer camps are designed to fit the schedule of your camp. Slots are available first come-first serve.

How long are the classes?

1 hour with 8-10 students

Do we have to have a gym?

We have two gyms; one in the Lawndale and Austin neighborhoods. We can also plan a program that takes place at your space, so you don’t have to transport your students.

Do we need to have equipment?

No! We can bring equipment to your site, or you can bring your group to one of our gyms where we have a climbing wall, mini-tramp, and other gymnastics equipment.

How much will this cost?

We provide high quality programming, coaches, and equipment for $2.50-$3.50 per child.

Paul (pictured above) can  answer additional questions at 773-921-1446 ext.1207, email: paul at livfit dot net Paul is the Director of Life on Life and the head coach for summer camps.

Lawndale Community  Church

More information about their summer camp will be uploaded soon!

This summer  Life on Life will be connecting with several youth serving organizations and ministries to provide acrobatic gymnastics and skills to at-risk children across the city of Chicago and the western suburbs. We are excited to announce new partners on this blog and to share information about their summer camp. Check back to see who else will be offering acrobatics at their summer camp in Chicago!

Our Newest Summer Partner: Breakthrough Urban Ministry

Mission & Vision:

Breakthrough Urban Ministries demonstrates the compassion of Christ by providing neighborhood-based, holistic services that empower individuals, families, and urban communities to overcome poverty, addiction, and isolation. We envision vibrant, healthy communities in which all people recognize their value as children of God through Christ and are growing toward their full potential.

Youth & Family Services:

Breakthrough’s Youth and Family Services Department includes a spiritual, academic, and athletic component. During the school year, we have a weekly Bible study program available to any student that would like to attend. Our literacy-based after-school program runs 4 days a week (Tuesday-Friday) and includes the following components: play time, a nutritious meal, homework assistance, computer lab time, reading workshops, language arts games, and elective classes. Breakthrough also offers year-round sports opportunities for girls and boys of all ages, including tennis, soccer, baseball, softball, swimming, basketball, and football.

During the summer, Breakthrough offers a 7-week day camp on Monday-Thursday, from 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Up to 60 children, grades K-8^th may participate. Children participate in literacy-building activities, field trips, elective classes, service projects, and technology classes.

We were blessed to serve 120 students weekly, throughout the entire eight week program.  One of the greatest reminders as to why what we do is so important came during the last week of camp…

On Saturday morning, parents and students from Rahab’s House  gathered  to celebrate the end of the summer program and the accomplishments of the students.  They also invited myself and the other instructors to attend the ceremony.  After taking my seat, one of the little guys,  Juan, pulled up a chair beside me.  Juan is a very active 8 year old, never stopping always moving, full of energy and life,  often creating challenges, and often getting into trouble.  I don’t know much about Juan’s story, but considering the neighborhood where Rahab’s House is located and that it is a ministry for abused women, I can guess that Juan’s life is challenging and that he has experienced a great deal of disappointment,  hurt and pain.

As I glanced out of the corner of my eye, I noticed  Juan was imitating my every move.  If I crossed my arms, he crossed his; as I moved my feet or leaned in my chair, he did the same; then without permission, he placed his hand on my shoulder and rested for a few minutes.  I must admit it made me a little uncomfortable, I am not a touchy type person; however, at this moment Juan needed this in his life.  He needed this positive connection with another human being.

At that  moment, I had the opportunity to be a model for Juan, to be a positive influence in his life, to reflect God’s grace and love by allowing him to rest on my shoulder.

This little interaction is a snap shot of what Life on Life is all about; the opportunity for adults who are passionate about Christ and who are called to ”imitate” life to children who are in desperate need of hope and direction.  Thank you for supporting Life on Life!

-Paul

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