Norwich youth project's gap year opportunity
 A Norwich Christian charity is looking for people wanting to serve God for a year in youth discipleship and mission as part of its annual volunteer placement scheme that starts in September.
The aim of East Norwich Youth Project (ENYP) is to oversee and develop youth work in the East Norwich area and it is supported by nine local churches. The project supports over 400 young people a week in their its clubs and actvities. The volunteering scheme was launched last year with three people committing to serve God in schools work, street work, youth work, outreach and service.
Traditionally many people undertake ‘year out’ schemes to gain and develop new skill sets for the future, providing a breathing space in between studies or work, or simply as a means to serve God more. The Volunteer Annual Placement Scheme (VAPS) is aimed at those with a desire to learn, grow and put faith into action.
Danny Doran Smith, Senior Worker of ENYP, says, “ENYP’s commitment is to train, equip and encourage those participating in VAPS in their spiritual walk with God, enabling them to put faith into action. Each volunteer is active in the delivery and operation of ENYP activities as well as pioneering new initiatives according to their gifts and abilities."
Looking back on their time on the scheme, one of this year’s participants said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the many youth groups that ENYP run, but it has also been a great pleasure and massive learning experience to lead some sessions and groups. I have been able to see youth work at first hand, and there’s a lot more that goes into it than I first thought at the beginning of the year!"
Another participant said, "God has changed my view of evangelism and the way in which we can go about it, the incredible difference that relationships have in that and the opportunities that arise from earning the right. I've learnt so much about young people, those that are young at heart and God, and am looking forward to continuing to nurture and encourage the relationships that have been built so far as well as starting new and exciting ventures.”
In the next couple of months the current participants will depart onto pastures new – two to begin university courses - and ENYP is looking for new people to join the scheme in the next academic year (starting in September 2009).
If you are over the age of 18 and think you may be interested in dedicating a year to serving God at ENYP in discipleship and mission then please contact Danny Doran-Smith on 07912 464883 or by email ddoransmith@enyp.org.uk.
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