Excel Academy started as a step of faith—God’s prompt for HMCC to become active in the Ann Arbor community through the means of education. Excel serves the community by providing educational programs to see every child excel academically. We knew that there were many international families in Ann Arbor who had children needing and wanting to learn English. We started in 2005 as a two week summer English program for the international population. We were expecting a total of 26 children who had already been registered by the start of the first day, with the expectation of a few walk-ins. Instead, an overwhelming 56 children registered by the end of that day! The following year, Excel expanded the Summer English program in length and size: 76 children enrolled in a four-week program. And just this past year, a total of 111 children participated in Excel Academy.

This is truly a testament to God’s grace and faithfulness. He continues to bring families back year after year. Most of our families come from referrals by other parents. And when parents receive summer camp and program information, they first contact us about our program. Their response has shown the need for a summer program that is affordable in providing a fun, educational experience for their children.

Through Excel, God reminds me He can use education to influence a child, his/her family, and, ultimately, the community. While I was teaching last summer, a parent spoke with tears about how saddened she was when her family had moved to America; it seemed her daughter had lost her outgoing and bubbly personality. Her daughter had become insecure largely due to language barriers and had difficulty socializing and communicating. However, after two weeks in Excel, her daughter seemingly returned to her outgoing-self and could not stop talking to her neighbors and making new friends at Excel and in her neighborhood.

I am convinced that although we do our best to provide a great educational experience, the love and care that our teachers and volunteers are able to give has also make an impact on their lives. As we head into our fourth year next summer, we are looking forward to continually building our relationship with the international community. We are also walking in faith and hoping that God will open doors for us to expand Excel and provide a summer program for lower-income families in Ann Arbor, especially with math and reading aid. Sometimes the ones that want and need these educational programs the most are the ones unable to afford to attend. We hope that through Excel, we can be a viable witness of God’s love to families through.