Hear from Patty and Terry Hancock, as they share their rewarding experience as a Second Family
WHAT MADE YOU INTERESTED IN BECMING A SECOND FAMILY?
Ten years ago we were new members of WPC. We noticed college students sitting in the balcony; we realized they were members of the UKirk college fellowship here at the church. We thought this might be a good way to serve our church and serve these amazing church-going young people. Surely they would add new meaning to our just retired lives.
WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN LIKE IN A SECOND FAMILY?
Simply put-wonderful! We have graduated three students and have made life long connections with them. It was a gift being part of their lives despite the generations between us. The thing we found out about each other was, no matter what our age we need God’s grace in our lives. A plus was we could laugh together, worship together, pray together, and just play a small part in each other’s faith journey. We were always there for each one and they were there for us. Being a Second Family was just as rewarding to us as it was for the three students we cared for.
WHY SHOULD SOMEONE CONSIDER BEING A SECOND FAMILY TO A WILLIAM & MARY STUDENT?
William and Mary students who have a heart for the church are truly amazing. These young, energetic, spiritual students quite simply just make a person happy. Giving them a safe place to relax away from the stress and busyness of campus life is so appreciated by each one. You can provide these young adults a nice home cooked meal, a new restaurant to try, a surprise goodie, or even just a walk off campus to destress; and soon you’ll be their home away from home.
The UKirk gatherings are also a lot of fun. Our Christmas progressive dinner, the Spring cookout, some retreats with Rachel...all are ways to bond and enjoy college students. They are a special group.
Shower them with love, understanding, and prayer and you’ll be blessed when they trust you enough to be part of their college lives.
With Gratitude,
~Patty and Terry Hancock
