The Call to Serve - Jessica Fondell

Jessica Fondell moved up to serve with CYAK in May of 2007 after graduation.  She works in the main office in Wasilla and works with the College Ministry at U of A Anchorage, Arigaa. Her grandparents are Gurt and Ralph Fondell, radio legends in Western Alaska who served at KICY for over 40 years.

When I graduated last May from North Park University, I knew I wanted to leave Chicago and do something in ministry. Staying and getting a random job sounded horrible to me. I was afraid of being stuck and stagnant. I had heard about CYAK through several people including my good friend Mary Helwig who told me she loved it up here. I was born in Alaska, moved when I was little, and always liked coming to see my grandparents. So I called Byron (CYAK Director) and talked to him about coming up. I went to camp last summer and it was an amazing experience where I fell in love with the kids and life in Alaska and decided that this is where I should be this year.

I have loved being here for many reasons, but I think one big one is that it is pushing me to constantly grow and learn. I have left the classroom but am still learning so much. I have learned about the Native culture, how to ice-fish, put away moose, and cure colds with a plant called stinkweed. I have also learned about the history of Native people in Alaska, about the struggles with drugs and alcohol, and about the physical and sexual abuse. Most important, I have seen the healing that can come to kids when we spent time with them and listen. I have also learned practical skills through the administrative work that I have done working for CYAK.

Working for a Christian non-profit in a community of people involved in ministry has also been wonderful in helping me grow in my faith. Having people to encourage me to pray, to lead Bible studies and to give my testimony have been wonderful in pushing me to go deeper in my faith. It is evident that different parts of the body of Christ work together as Covenant churches and youth ministers all over the state make each other more effective by supporting each other.

Finally, Alaska is beautiful. The mountains and water, the opportunities to hike, fish, ski, sled, etc. are amazing and so many people are friendly and willing to take you in and show you around. All in all this year has been a blessing in showing me what it is like to trust God and rely on Him, for everything from money for groceries to what to say to a kid who has been abused. He has been so faithful in every situation.