Do you think you’re too old to have an impact on middle school students? One of our newest YOKE Folk, Judi Welsh, would beg to differ. At age 72, Judi, is a retired school teacher from Florida, with 4 kids and 6 grandkids. She never lost her passion for middle school students, so when a group from her church, True Life in Jefferson City, came together to launch YOKE at White Pine School, she decided to get involved. (Read all about that here.)
When it comes to youth ministry, Judi doesn’t view her age as a liability, but rather as an asset. “Just like grandparents with grandchildren, the years we have lived, the experiences we’ve had, and the lessons we’ve learned are valuable assets to connect with students,” she explained. “They have more questions than answers and are looking for a safe person who will hear them out without judging or trying to fix it. They just need a good, faithful friend to be there for them.”
“It’s an honor and privilege to serve alongside someone as passionate as Judi,” said Kelly Chilcote, YOKE’s area director for Jefferson County. “Judi has been a dependable teammate and has become a faithful friend to middle school students already. We’re so grateful to have her on the team.”
Last month Judi jumped in with both feet at YOKE’s Olympic Camp. This being the first semester of club at White Pine, the group was a little smaller, but that didn’t dampen Judi’s enthusiasm. “I was so blessed – YOKE Camp is amazing,” she exclaimed. “It was so helpful modeling games, skits, and songs. I have such a better picture of that it means to lead at club now, too.”
YOKE surprised Judi with her own gold medal for “Best Senior Olympian.” By the end of the weekend, her energy, enthusiasm, and intentionality with her students had impressed everyone. The gold medal shone brightly, but not as brightly as her smile.
Judi proves that it is never too late to impact middle school students through YOKE. “If you truly care about them as an individual, they will know it,” she concluded. “You will be amazed at what a difference that can make.”
For more information on how you can be involved, fill out our volunteer interest form, or call us at 865-522-6907.
