On February 20, the Detroit Better Living Center (BLC) offered its first six-week computer class series. Held every Tuesday evening from 7:00–8:30 p.m., the eight computer stations were not enough to accommodate all who responded to the first call for sign-up. It was somewhat of a surprise that there was such a high interest from residents in this dilapidated neighborhood.

The BLC is located in one of Detroit's poorest areas. Owned and operated by the Lake Region Conference, the goal of the BLC is to make a positive difference in a community ravaged by crime, unemployment, and drug infestation.

Despite the overwhelming poverty and seeming hopelessness, we are planning programs to meet the needs of the community. The computer class was one of the first, following the philosophy of a popular Chinese proverb, "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."

For several years, Comcast has provided the BLC with free high-speed Internet connection for educational purposes. Four computers were donated by Wayne County. Our contacts netted a donation of four more computers. While sharing our dream for the computer class with Ypsilanti (Michigan) Church member, Mark Ruffin, we were thrilled when Mark volunteered his time to teach the class. The dates were set, fliers distributed, and an announcement posted on the BLC marquee sign. Then we prayed that God would send people to the BLC who needed this help. To our amazement, the response was overwhelming.

People from every walk of life called to register—ex-prisoners, housewives, the unemployed, the employed, and youth of various ages. One parent registered her three boys, and another family asked if they could just stand and watch when they were told the first class was full. Eight students attended faithfully—the youngest ten and the oldest 65. One had recently been released from prison. He was anxious to turn his life around and knew that computer skills would be an asset.

On graduation night, April 10, the celebration included pizza and the presentation of certificates of completion. As graduates of the class, they are now welcome to use the BLC computers anytime, if needed. Other programs are planned for the near future. Substance abuse counseling, a clothing bank, a food pantry, a soup kitchen, dental clinic, and mobile health screenings are on the horizon. The BLC is using Christ's method to share His love with a community who needs Him. "Christ's method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, 'Follow Me'" (The Ministry of Healing, p. 143).

Ray Young is the Lake Region Conference communication director and newly appointed Better Living Center director.