Byonca’s Story

I’m from Humboldt Park and I am the youngest girl in a family with 8 kids. I was a really shy, quiet kid who didn’t talk to people or know how to be out there. My brother played basketball at ICI and brought me one time. I liked everything about it since I first walked in the doors. There were kids my age that I could play with and talk to. I grew up at ICI. I attended after school clubs whenever I could and would hang out with leaders whenever I had the chance.

I went to camp every year and loved it so much that I never wanted to go home at the end of the week. Throughout my whole high school experience, I felt like I needed to change. After we got back from my last high school camping trip I was thinking about what the leaders had said. I decided to pray and give my life to Christ.

That decision changed me. The things that I do and my personality have changed. I just changed a whole lot. I was fearful before I was a believer. Now I know God is there and He will help protect me. ICI will help you a lot with preparing you for your future and help you figure out what you want to do. I have been a camp counselor for the past few summers and have been inspired by the kids. I also volunteer at ICI’s after school clubs. I’m learning how to care for them and love them and how to share the love of Christ with them. I want to have a big family someday and be surrounded by kids.