Speaker Jason Maupin will offer a message of hope during The Gathering, an event for middle-school and high-school students at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, at Waupaca High School.
The evening will also feature live music and a $100 cash giveaway for one student in attendance.
Maupin will also address Waupaca High School students in assemblies during school hours the following day, Jan. 16, in a program of educational activities aimed at preventing suicide.
“There’s a reason why we go through trials, and it’s to help others,” said Maupin, who in his turbulent childhood became suicidal while feeling like his life meant nothing. “Have you ever played cards? Sometimes you get a bad hand, but you know you can’t fold because if you fold you’re just giving up. That’s the same way life is: No matter what hand you’re dealt you have to play it the best you can.”
Maupin’s visit to the area is being sponsored by the Waupaca Area Youth Network (WAYnet), a partnership of five Waupaca churches – Faith Community Church, First Assembly of God Church, Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church, Trinity Lutheran Church and Victory Church – in cooperation with the Waupaca School District.
WAYnet also helped bring speaker Reggie Dabbs to area schools a year ago.
Members of the public, especially middle- and high-schoolers and their parents, are invited to The Gathering on Jan. 15 in an effort to help young people see the value of life.
Additional information about Maupin is available at www.elevateindustries.com