Mendez Partnership
In 2011, the adoption of Mendez Elementary became our primary mission in the San Marcos Community. Through mentoring, after school programs, field trips, and lots of prayers, the church supports the education and well-being of the students, teachers, and administrators.
Perhaps no other partnership has blessed this congregation as much as the one we have with Mendez. Starting with a sermon series on living missionally, the congregation began a search for where God was moving and how this congregation could join in. God led the discernment team to Mendez Elementary where God has blessed us with a fruitful and meaningful ministry. The school has really changed since we began this partnership, but the heart of the congregation has been changed as well. We are vitally linked to each other.
For our part, the work at Mendez is divided into 4 distinct programs.
Birthday Lunches
Each month of the school year, we host a “birthday lunch” for all students who have their birthdays that month. We celebrate with a cupcake, book, and birthday surprise for each child. This ministry is our opportunity to impact each student in the school – and the kids really look forward to their turn!
Mentoring
A number of individuals from the congregation serve as mentors at Mendez Elementary – providing a caring, consistent adult presence in the life of an at-risk child. Mentors and mentees meet once a week – sharing lunch and encouragement in a relationship that truly builds up the students (and benefits the mentor as well!). There are always more children eagerly awaiting mentors!
Kids Rock Club
Our afterschool program meets for one action-packed hour on Thursdays for 4-5 weeks in the fall and the spring, on the Mendez Elementary School campus. 60+ children gather for snacks, games, a Bible story, music, and crafts – and have a great time! We always welcome more adult volunteers to join our team as we share the love of Christ with these kids.
Field Trips
Our partnership with Mendez elementary includes the sponsorship of their character-building program and field trips for each grade level. These field trips have included the Emily Ann Theatre, John Knox Ranch, and the Seton Hospital Butterfly Release. Our enhancement of the school curriculum and the support of the faculty and staff are a valuable part of our ministry at the school.