I am honored to write on behalf of the Board of Directors of First Things First.  I have served for almost a year on this Board, and am deeply impressed with its leadership, vision, mission and methodology. In my thirty-three years in the pastorate, I have been looking for a local ministry like First Things First to help strengthen marriages in the churches and communities I have served. I have found such a group in FTF, so I am giving them some of my energy and resources.

The need to strengthen marriage, family and parenting skills in the Richmond area is evident. Enclosed please find a sheet that describes some of our local needs and the vision of FTF to address them. In 2008, over 1,500 Richmonders were trained by FTF in ways to build healthier relationships and marriages, and to increase fathers’ involvement in their children’s lives. It appears we will increase these numbers over 35% in 2009. Our church has partnered with FTF in the marriage education program, “Ten Great Dates.” It has been very beneficial to our participants, including Beverly and me.

Strong programming, like that of FTF, works. Our sister organization, First Things First in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has achieved great things: Since 1996, divorce filings in their community decreased by 30% and teen out-of-wedlock pregnancies decreased by 29%. We can do the same with the help of the Robins Foundation!

Working together, we can make a difference for people in our community and help improve the Greater Richmond area in real, tangible ways. We can strengthen marriages, help men become better fathers, and educate our youth about positive relationships.

Craig A. Sherouse, Ph.D.   Senior Pastor, Second Baptist Church