UNIVERSITY VILLAGE

The transition into adulthood is precarious for the youth of South Africa. Once a child turns 18, he is no longer eligible for any financial assistance from the government. These young adults essentially find themselves orphaned for the second time. Without parental figures present, these youth are forced to fend for themselves; many of them have to do whatever it takes to put food on the table. Unemployment rates are high and educational opportunities are limited for many young adults.

Ten Thousand Homes realizes that these youth need a sense of belonging and HOME just as much as the younger children we minister to each week. University Village, birthed in response to this need we observed, is an extension of home for older African youth. We recognize that God has a plan and purpose for each one of these older children. They are the future of Africa and we believe they will play a vital role in advancing God’s kingdom. Our desire is to help these youth see themselves for who they really are.

Local leaders are being raised up at University Village. We want to help these youth dream bigger and recognize that their influence can reach beyond their surrounding communities. We also envision offering practical skills training, such as in construction and hospitality. We see the potential for empowering youth through income generating projects. The course of these children’s lives will be radically changed as we provide positive alternatives to the opportunities that are normally available.

University Village provides a sense of HOME for many people. It is a peaceful resting place for the visiting teams we host from around the world. Our Compassion Discipleship Training Schools are hosted here. University Village is also home to most of the staff of Ten Thousand Homes. As we do life together, the feeling of HOME we create at University Village is what will flow into the surrounding communities where we serve.