|
 Woodland Hills has taken another step forward toward its mission of tearing down walls and reaching its community by offering free tutoring to students on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Phase 1 Computer Lab.
Students from the church and the local area can receive tutoring in math, English, and other subjects from one of the volunteers present.
Bryon Wedan of Saint Paul has been a part of Woodland Hills Church for about four years and is now a volunteer in the tutoring program. When asked why he has chosen to lend a hand in the program he said, “This is a good way for me to serve. I really like working with kids of all ages and the fact that it’s one-on-one really fits my gifts.” He went on to say, “I’m really excited about the Growing in the Spirit youth growth plan. This is a part of that, and I want to support it.” 
Local high school student and Woodland Hills Church youth member, Kristi Johnson, was on hand during the time of this interview and said, “This is really nice because it works out well with my schedule since I can go to group after I spend some time receiving tutoring.” Kristi is a senior at Concordia Academy and has been a part of Woodland Hills for six years. She is utilizing the tutoring services to help with her advanced algebra class.
Mike Selner has been a part of Woodland Hills Church for about four years. He has a computer background and plays a major part in helping Woodland Hills establish a considerable Internet presence  through its website: his company was responsible for designing it. When asked about his involvement in the tutor program he said, “This is a great way to reach kids in the community. Ever since I heard about the plan for Growing in the Spirit at Woodland Hills, I have been excited about being a part of it.” Mike is available for tutoring in several areas, but students will really benefit from the wealth of knowledge he has in the areas of computers and technology.
Dennis Luce, the senior Youth Pastor at Woodland Hills, is responsible for the tutoring program and passionate about helping young people. Dennis said, “We want to serve our community in a very tangible way. Tutoring and high speed internet access is one way we can meet their specific needs. The people who have volunteered to tutor are excellent teachers in their fields.” He went on to say, “What's so cool about this is that people get to use their giftings in areas where other people simply cannot help. So many people struggle with math, yet we're replete with engineers who excel in math. They make it look so easy. We hope to expand our program to include ESL, parenting seminars and other helpful subjects.”
Woodland Hills Church seeks to be a fresh presence in the community. Through its many established programs and this new after school tutor program, it strives ever forward in its mission to change lives and impact the community for Jesus Christ.
article by Chris Surber
e-mail him about it at psalms139@comcast.net
| 
