Mission Uganda - Empower A Child - Charissa

Meet Charissa Clearman
Phil 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

As a collegiate volleyball player, this verse really spoke to me as I endured physical and emotional battles. The strongest I will ever be is through Christ, and by trusting in his strength and his plan, I can do all things, including serving over in Uganda.

I am senior at Appalachian State University, and I will be graduating with a degree in communications (public relations) with a specialization in nonprofits. My freshmen year of college I worked with an organization called, "Invisible Children", and participated in several events. This organization is where I found my passion for Africa.

God instilled in my heart a love for children, and a desire to seek and pray for Africa. As my college years went by, I did not stick with Invisible Children due to school obligations but my heart continued to long for those in Africa.

My sophomore year, there was a position open to go on a missions trip to Africa with a local church. I received an email about it, and I thought this was the perfect opportunity that God had set before me to travel to Africa. However, being a college athlete meant a lot of obligations during the summer, which conflicted with the opportunity to Africa. I was beside myself, and so discouraged, and questioned if God really wanted me to serve in Africa, or if it was more of my selfish desires.

I honestly do not know what to expect when I go over there, but I know that God knows. I pray that God will give me the strength to minister to these kids.

When I leave, I hope that I do not necessarily leave a mark, but God does. I want to be able to bring kids to Christ, and see that miracle in front of my eyes. I want to be able to be a friend to a child who is struggling, and needs love. If I am able to touch one child, all of the time and effort will have been worthwhile.

Blessings
Charissa