Breanne Stephens: / 21 / San Diego, CA
When I think of who I was two years ago, the only word that rings loudly in my ears is broken. Before I came to the Movement I was lost and looking for my purpose. I didn't know who I was; I was insecure and afraid. I entered the program in October of 2008 desperate for change. Over the course of my first year, change is what I found. Everything about me was different; where fear once ruled, boldness resides, where worry plagued me, peace sustains me. I am truly a new woman. Now I am in my second year of the program and I continue to grow more secure in my relationship with God. Everyday I'm astounded, moved, and humbled by God's love for me. I am forever indebted to the Movement, for my whole life, my whole eternity is different because of this program.
DJ Scott: / 20 / Spokane, WA
Before The Movement I lived a normal complacent life. I wasn't necessarily a bad kid, but I wasn't living with any purpose, passion, or dedication to God. Since leaving everything I had known and coming to The Movement LA a deeper affection of love for God and helping people has blossomed. My desire to pursue God has developed into a burning passion to express His love outwardly. I've especially noticed a change in my character as I have been molded daily by the number of outreaches we do. I'm currently in my second year of program and continue to learn as I serve others. The Movement truly has been a life changing experience for me.
Gabby Axume: / 18 / Northridge, CA
I was raised in a Christian home; with roots dug deep into our Hispanic culture. Along with that came a world consumed by rules and expectations. I strived to be the person everyone intended for me to be, overwhelming myself with their opinions and dreams rather than my own. My parents instruction only took me so far, but I realized God was calling me to do something more.
For the first time, I ignored the criticism of the world and choose to listen to the one voice that truly matters. I'd heard of The Movement, did some research and realized God wanted me here. My one act of faith caused me to be successful in establishing an unwavering relationship with God, and to become the person of kindness and compassion He created me for. My joy comes from the confidence I have knowing I will fulfill the divine purpose He has for my life. The Movement has taught me to be fearless and conquer the dreams I have.
Sarah Roy: / 18 / Lewisville, TX
I had grown up in the church and was taught to love Jesus always, but as I went through my high-school years, I wanted to live life to my own standards. I chose to surround myself around drugs, parties, and sex. Each and everyday I would still remember God, but was too busy to allow His love to reach me.
Being in the Movement has forever changed my life, and I will praise God everyday for this miracle. I thought I was unworthy and not able to present myself as pure and innocent, but now I know that my Father is gracious. His love has the strength to restore, redeem, and deliver me. I know that whatever comes my way God and His love will always be with me because He never left, even if I did. The Movement was my second chance and I'm eternally grateful.
Jordan Mers: / 18 / Palm Coast, FL
I came to the Movement hungry for some adventure in my life, but unsure of what to expect. At one point, before coming, I honestly thought it would be a waste of time and money. I decided to come because it felt right in my heart. When my feet first touched the Dream Center pavement, I knew I had made the right choice. The Movement has imparted and shaped my life beyond what I thought was ever possible. Here I have great examples of what it means to be a true man of integrity. On top of all that my prayer life and walk with the one true God has intensified immensely.
Devon Plush: / 19 / Nashville, TN
I came into the movement ready to do ministry, but in turn found out I'm the one who needed the ministry. I'm in a generation where people's lives are overran by sin. Some don't know where to turn or go, and that was me. I was uncertain of what direction I should go, but when I discovered The Movement I knew this was for me.
I found this program life changing because it ministries to the students potential and calls us to be the men and women God desires for us to be. The Movement is about raising up a lost and confused generation and transforming them into world leaders. One of the biggest lessons I've learned thus far is that: it doesn't matter who you are, where you're from, or what you have done for God to use you. The beautiful thing about The Movement is the relationships you build with your fellow classmates. The culture of community is vital to a successful healthy relationship with God, The Movement creates that opportunity for you everyday. I thank God for this program and I couldn't think of a better way to spend ten months of my life learning, growing, and serving.
Leah Williams: / 21 / Gastonia, NC
I can barely remember the insecure girl who walked into this program three years ago. When I entered the program I was paralyzed with insecurities and fear. Throughout my entire life I had always missed the mark and never felt as though I measured up to any standard. I grew up in a Christian home and knew about God, but never had a real relationship with Him.
As I started The Movement I decided to take a risk and give it everything I had. I started developing a genuine relationship with God by praying and serving. The closer I got to loving God and people the smaller and smaller my insecurities became. Pretty soon I didn't even recognize myself, full of courage and strength. I'm in my third year of the program and am incredibly honored that I get the privilege of helping and disciplining other woman, especially those who are struggling with the same thing I did. The Movement allows me to invest and help change someone's life and that's the greatest blessing of all.