COLUMBIA, S.C. — Two events in Columbia are shining a light on faith and investing in the youth in our community.
United House of Prayer celebrated its 98th Annual Holy Convocation, emphasizing youth involvement in the marching band and awarding scholarships for academic achievement.
Deirdre Hutson, president of Mccullum College Fund, said that at the convocation, youth from North Carolina came to Columbia to join the festivities.
She said that while they are doing work for the Lord, it's important to highlight them in their academics.
“We want to reward them for not only being excelling academically, but we want them to be more faithful in the house of prayer, so we give them this opportunity to present themselves,” Hutson said.
At Trinity Baptist Church, the Columbia Urban League called on parents to advocate for their children as they navigate the educational system.
“We want to help our parents; we want them to feel empowered; we don’t want them to feel like they are going through this journey alone but they have support," said Felisa McDavid, principal investigator with the Columbia Urban League.
McDavid says some parents who came in wanted to expand their knowledge of special education and the resources available to help their kids with autism.
“Certain specialists were here at the event to answer questions about diagnosing autism, what kinds of things to look for, and what kinds of support those children needs,” McDavid said.
Moving forward, both groups agree investing in the youth is the best way to ensure a brighter future in and out of the classrooms.
United House of Prayer holy convocation will conclude Sunday, Sept. 15, with doors opening at 11 a.m.