Clay has been bouncing in and out of Remann Hall since middle school, typically for running away or stealing something small in violation of probation. Now 16, he entered Remann Hall angry this time. To help take his mind off his situation, a fellow detainee gave him novels to read. He also convinced him to read the book of Romans. 

When Dan, a JJM volunteer leader, arrived at the detention center that week he found that Clay had also begun a journal about steps for changing his life. Dan shared his faith and about the work Jesus did on the cross and encouraged Clay to add the Gospels and James to his reading list and find believers to walk alongside him in life. 

Dan asked Clay if he’d like to read and search more or if he wanted to accept Christ right then. Clay chose Christ. 

Sometimes it takes years. Sometimes it takes day after day, mistake after mistake, loving conversation after loving conversation before someone is ready to make a change. Volunteers like Dan through the Juvenile Justice Ministry have been showing up for kids like Clay in the Pierce County Juvenile Court system for over 40 years, steadfastly holding onto the hope that while the world may be out of patience with a kid who continually finds himself in trouble, God’s patience never runs dry. 

And God isn’t finished yet. Clay is also excited about being partnered with a mentor from our One80 Mentorship Program. Through One80, Clay will be matched with a consistent, caring, trained adult to help him grow and navigate life outside “the system.” 

There is a way for anyone to partner with us in this mission to bring hope to the youth of Pierce County. For more information on JJM, One80, or other ways to get involved, click below.