Psychology major Ryland Gabriel ’26 served at Hope House in the Boise, Idaho, area through Whitworth’s Summer Fellowship Program, part of the Office of Church Engagement. In total, 26 Whitworth students served as Fellows throughout the summer at churches, nonprofits and camps around the country!
Gabriel describes his experience:
“As part of joining the Summer Fellowship Program, I have been given the opportunity to serve at Hope House in Marsing, Idaho, for youth who come from failed or disrupted adoption homes. This summer, I have worked alongside dedicated Christians to extend grace and provide direct care for these kids. My experience has been a mix of very fulfilling to emotionally demanding as the work requires a dedication to mending neglected teens.
“A massive highlight from working at Hope House is the aspect of being in groups. The boys and girls here live in separate dorms (just like BMac!) where they can grow and bond together rather than be isolated as they may have been at home. We have gotten to go on trips throughout summer because of this, either separate or collectively as dorms, creating fun and transformative memories!
“I did not expect to grow so close to the bright young souls here. I had trouble understanding what it would take to be of help knowing I would only be in Idaho so long. I believed my brief time here would make it difficult to draw close to the hearts of the kids here who are used to having relationships cut short in their lives. As I eased into the daily life here, they also showed me grace and love, which bonded us all in a unique way. They have given me an experience I will cherish forever!”
Worth a Look 