GLENDORA, Calif.–America’s Christian Credit Union (ACCU) sponsored the second annual Foster Children Benefit Concert, an event organized by Glendora Community Church and hosted by Grace Church of Glendora. The concert, which spotlighted the often-heartbreaking aspects of foster care, also celebrated the heroic work and success stories of such local foster care groups as Royal Family KIDS and Serenity, Inc. Both organizations embrace the cause of orphaned children and assist them in their hope to find their permanent, loving homes.
A pre-concert reception welcomed and encouraged those who may have felt a tug on their heart to welcome a child into their family through foster care or adoption. This session covered the entire process from the viewpoints of the parent and of the child, the credit union said. The program that followed featured music from the Glendora Community Choir and Symphonic Orchestra, comprised of a collection of vocalists and musicians from local churches and Azusa Pacific University. The inspiring pieces performed by the symphony orchestra masterfully illustrated the hope found in Jesus Christ, and served as a figurative bridge to the experience of God’s grace in bringing children into their forever homes.
Afterwards, ACCU President/CEO Mendell L. Thompson took a moment to speak about the realities of the foster care system and the opportunity we have to help the children in dire need for a hopeful future. “This [concert] is about elevating awareness and restoring hope for foster kids. We can care, nourish and equip them in a tangible way by digging deep and giving to our partners who are invested in this work on a daily basis,” commented Thompson.
As the concert was coming to a close, there was a brief moment to allow the community an opportunity to give, which resulted in $7,079.74 in donations to Royal Family KIDS and Serenity, Inc. After the solemn and powerful closing piece, Pastor John Dix of Grace Church of Glendora concluded the evening by thanking everyone who participated. “We’re grateful to all of you for your support and engagement in this important cause,” said Pastor Dix, “And thank you, Mendell and ACCU, for your contributions to make tonight’s benefit concert possible. You are a leader in our community under the banner of Jesus. We are thankful for your voice.”