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Houston, TX - Violence and crime is an ever-growing problem amongst our nation's young people and finding ways to reach them where they live an even bigger challenge. Last Friday, the young congregation of Houston's God's Way Missionary Baptist Church hosted an event that was designed to do just that; Hopefest. Pastor Tyrone P. Spriggs invited local organization, Aspire to Win, along with Houston rapper, Trae Tha Truth, to hold a panel for the young people of his church and their families in an attempt to inspire those present to stay in school and away from the pitfalls of peer pressure and the streets.
Founded by Rosey Ruiz MSW, LCDC (above with Pastor Tyrone P. Spriggs and panelists), Aspire to Win is a program for men re-entering society having served 10 or more consecutive years in prison; most for violent crimes. Each of the 4 Aspire to Win clients on Friday's panel had served between 20 and 33 consecutive years, making them the perfect spokespeople for the evening's message. Each shared their own life experiences, imparting a powerful message to the attending kids and they spoke to a full house.
The second part of the night's program saw Trae deliver his own message to the kids. His story was one of loss, having an older brother serving 3 consecutive life sentences and what it was like to grow up without him. Trae gave a compelling speech to the kids about staying in school, getting an education and keeping away from drugs and all present were moved by his warmth and generosity. Trae remained until the last child had left, answering questions and signing autographs.
"The Hopefest was a night filled with hope and inspiration." Says Aspire to Win Founder and CEO, Rosey Ruiz. "I believe it was a blessing to all who came. Pastor Tyrone P. Spriggs is to be commended for thinking outside-the-box in his endeavor to reach the young people of his congregation and partnering with Aspire to Win on this very important effort."
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