Waypoint,

Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

I am excited that my family is going on our first “destination” vacation together, the first time the boys will be on an airplane, experience a different culture and be exposed the vastness of God’s people and creation.  Grateful for you all and the strength of our community that allows us to unplug together this summer.  I have fond memories of my own parents putting cool adventure trips together, like this one and look forward to my kids having a similar experience.

However, I write all of this because as we were reading through the packing list, I saw an awesome thing that this resort participates in called: Pack with a Purpose. 

The resort has partnered with an area schools that teach 300 students of 5-12 year olds in a “less fortunate” part of Belize.  I am grateful that they do this because it helps to (re)set the tone of our trip.  

Reading about this ministry, I felt challenged that this ties in with the mission and purpose of Waypoint to make an impact where ever God sends you…even on a family vacation.  As Paul says in Colossians, whatever we do–even something fortunate like this family trip–can become a way to honor God.

Therefore, our family will be collecting and donating supplies, and I wanted to invite you all to donate with us.  If you have time this week, and have some supplies from last school year, drop stuff (below) off at our home or I can meet you and we will get them down there.  I am excited that for this first trip my kids will not only be stuffing their own teddy bears, but will also be able to pack a bag to help others.

Journeying forth in Christ,
Wes Barry

Full List of Needs

Pens, pencils, colored pencils, crayons, markers, chalk, hand held pencil sharpeners, rulers, erasers, protractors, compasses, solar calculators, exercise books, math flash cards, English word flash cards, alphabet flash cards, science educational wall charts, math educational wall charts, English language educational wall charts, human body educational wall charts, English dictionaries and encyclopedias, working laptops, age appropriate story books in English, colored construction paper, glue sticks, watercolor paints, craft scissors, soccer balls, netballs/basketballs, jump ropes, Frisbees, new or gently used children’s clothing, new or gently used children’s shoes, stuffed animals/soft toys and educational toys.