My City August 2022

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Active Boys in Christ BY CHERYL DENNISON PHOTOS COURTESY OF PASTOR DERRICK WATKINS Empowering

F ounded in 2017 by Pastor Derrick Watkins of Jachin Bap tist Church in Flint, Active Boys In Christ (ABC) is a mentoring program that works di rectly with children and families. e mission of the charitable organiza tion is to “empower the Flint community youth and families through skilled trades, culinary and life-skills that will promote and celebrate lifelong learning for the success of youth and families.” Pastor Watkins originated the structure

of the program and works closely with his wife Christine Watkins, who is the director. “We introduce youth to skilled trades, life application and charac ter skills,” the Founder reports. “We teach them about honesty, respect and self con dence to help them better interact with society and improve behavior patterns.” ABC oers a sum mer program for Flint area youth ages 7-17 and in particular, those on the city’s north side. e maximum number of participants is 70 and

Above: The ABC program builds camaraderie between participants. Below: A young participant learns to cook.

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