Beth Uriel by Kelsey

January 11th, 2010

Tonight we had the pleasure of sharing dinner with some of the family members of Beth Uriel.
“Beth Uriel is home to 26 previously disadvantaged men between the ages of 16 and 24. Each of these men have their own story and have chosen to live in Beth Uriel to better their life. Beth Uriel is committed to the passionate pursuit of independence for each of their family members. With Christian principles and family values at their core, the Beth Uriel family is dedicated to creating opportunities for those who would otherwise have none. Wrestling with issues of poverty, lack of education, and the effects of HIV and AIDS on youth, Beth Uriel aspires to offer comprehensive care in every aspect of their program. Because Beth Uriel is one of only three facilities in Cape Town that caters to youth over the age of 17, they know very well that they may be the only chance that many of these youth have got.” (Beth Uriel flyer)

When we first arrived we met some of the guys and then learned more about the organization from Marielle, who has been a volunteer at the home for 3 years. She explained to us about how the organization was started, how the guys help out within the home, how they make shirts as fundraisers, ect. After having a great question/answer session with Marielle, we had dinner with some of the guys. We were able to learn more about them and what they are doing with their lives. One of the guys sitting next to me has a great passion for music and hopes to come to the United States someday to pursue a music career playing his guitar. Another guy has even recorded his own CD! It was great to hear about their schooling and future plans. We also got a tour of the house and spent a great deal of time in their Me Kasi room. This is where they make all their merchandise. Almost all of us bought a t-shirt or sweatshirt with the special Beth Uriel logo on it. Before leaving, we were entertained by some of the guys. Several of them were singing, drumming, and dancing on the back porch for us! It was fun to see them having such a great time. It was so inspiring to see how Beth Uriel has changed these young men’s lives, and given them hope for the future. Maybe one day we will see a family member of Beth Uriel as South Africa’s President!

*For more information visit their website: www.bethuriel.co.za