Prayer Breakfast Encourages Community to Unite, Support Youth

Adults should never stop supporting and caring for youth because they are the future of our community, Pastor Jake W. Gaines said during his speech Tuesday at the 12th annual .

Gaines was the guest speaker for the event hosted by the Clawson Community Coalition. The coalition is a grassroots organization that strives to unite the community, encourage spirituality and prevent drug and alcohol abuse.

The breakfast, held at , attracted about 40 people including local leaders like Mayor Penny Luebs, Superintendent Cheryl Rogers and the Rev. Stephen Trachsel of .

Gaines discussed the importance of giving back and forming a united front that will help younger generations succeed.

"We have to pour into people that are not like us," said Gaines of Synagogue Baptist Church in Detroit. "Please, don't quit caring."

The prayer breakfast was inspired by the National Prayer Breakfast held annually in Washington D.C.

Beverly Owens has helped organize the event for the past nine years and said it's a great way to bring leaders and residents together for inspiration.

"When we get together, it helps support the fact that we do need to continue to be together as a community," said Owens, community organizer of the Clawson Community Coalition. "I was just totally satisfied with everything that took place today."

The event also included a performance by the choir and the presentation of thank you awards to various individuals and groups who support the coalition. There were special prayers for youth, the nation, families and unity. 

Gaines said there is a great need for adults to reach out to youth and build a deep foundation in the community. With youth contemplating drugs and crime, the kindness of one individual could make a big difference, he said. 

"If God can love me, then who on Earth can I not love," Gaines said. "You may not believe it... but you are touching people you do not know."

The Clawson Community Foundation usually meets on the third Thursday of every month from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the . Call 248-655-4200 ext. 4303 for more information.