Sofia* is kind of quiet until you get to know her. Caught in the middle of her parents’ separation, Sofia’s mom and dad will not speak to one another and use her as their messenger. As a result, she is always receiving negativity directed at the other parent or directed at her for not relaying the message properly.

Over the last two years, Karla has been her normal ride home after Campus Life. For a long time, Sofia would just hop out of the car when they arrived at her house. Now she does not want to get out of the car. She talks about family issues, problems with friends and other difficulties. A few weeks ago I watched as Sofia arrived at Campus Life and immediately went to Karla to check in and give her a hug.

God is at work in Sofia’s life to let her know that he is present and cares for her. She has indicated in the past that she is not a believer, but is considering. She is making better choices regarding friends at school and her actions at home.

All kids deserve a Karla. They deserve listening ears and open hearts. Our volunteers and staff are on campuses and in neighborhoods so that kids like Sofia have adults like Karla to support them when life is heavy and hard.

*Teen name and images have been changed.