Count Me In

The following is written by TeenPact graduate Fuzz Thomson of New Mexico. After attending as a student, Fuzz served as a staffer, Traveling Intern, and Program Director (2009).

When my mom, Wendy Thomson (TeenPact New Mexico’s State Coordinator since before New Mexico was a state… basically), told me and my siblings about the #alumnimatch, it immediately brought back years of memories from my time in TeenPact. From wandering the State Capitol as a toddler while my older siblings attended the State Class, to traversing the country as a Program Director later in my teen years, TeenPact was always a huge part of my life.

At the time, I thought attending and working with the ministry provided me an outlet to expand my education, improve my communication skills, and interact with like-minded peers. Looking back now, nearly 10 years separated, I realize TeenPact has done so much more than that; it played a pivotal role in shaping who I am in Christ today. Although I indeed learned about government functions and processes, refined my public speaking skills, and made countless friends (some of whom are still close friends to this day), I also experienced the mighty power of God’s work in thousands of young people all across the country.

“Looking back now, nearly 10 years separated, I realize TeenPact has done so much more than that; it played a pivotal role in shaping who I am in Christ today.”

In my own life, these experiences have enabled me professionally as an Air Force Officer and personally as a husband. TeenPact taught me valuable skills in leadership, organization, communication, planning, interpersonal relationships, and above all else, how to walk in faith (I suppose this would be a good time to thank you for making me go, Mom). TeenPact afforded me the opportunity at a young age to step out of my comfort zone and learn to rely on God’s strength. Whether that was speaking to a group of my peers about how a bill becomes a law, or advising a two-star General on intelligence tactics in Iraq, or even trying to explain to my wife why I chose to organize the garage the way I did (your way was indeed better, Hayley), those lessons will forever have a positive impact on my life.

“TeenPact taught me valuable skills in leadership, organization, communication, planning, interpersonal relationships, and above all else, how to walk in faith.”

Throughout my years of involvement in TeenPact, I was able to experience a lot. I have seen teenagers come to Christ, I have heard young people sharing the gospel to complete strangers in capitol buildings, I have listened to echos of prayer and worship songs in committee rooms, and most importantly I have seen the Holy Spirit spark revivals in places and at times you would least expect, including in my own life. If donating a small amount to TeenPact through the #alumnimatch can afford just one additional individual the opportunity to experience even a fraction of what I (and other alumni) have experienced then count me in.

Will you join me?

Give the gift of TeenPact

What is the #alumnimatch? A former TeenPact Student has very generously offered an opportunity for TeenPact Alumni to have their donations matched until March 31. Matched donations must be from TeenPact Alumni. Up to $12,500 will be matched by our kind donor ($25,000 total for our 25th season).