O’Bhean first heard about First Steps at Good Shepherd Church in Fleetwood, Surrey, where his father is the pastor. From the moment he heard about First Steps’ mission to help kids in North Korea, he felt a desire to do something more. Before the club had it’s official start, O’Bhean spent months praying and preparing for the community and for the impact he could have at his school. He took the time to make flyers, pamphlets, posters, and presentations, all the with hope to generate interest and support for First Steps. He shared how God opened the doors needed for the club to have its official start by his chance connection with a new teacher who’s heart was also interested in making an impact in the lives of children in North Korea. This teacher agreed to become the sponsor teacher which helped launch the club into existence.
In just three months, the club fundraised around $1500 through various events including a local car wash, freezie and ice cream sales, bottle drives and even a video game tournament! O’Bhean also challenged each club member to pledge $10 weekly through family or friend donations. The success of these events and the response of the club members has pushed O’Bhean to work harder and dedicate more of his self to helping First Steps’ mission. Every Friday since the club began in February, the members have met together to dream and discuss their hopes for the future of this club. It has been described as feeling like a family, which has now grown from 25 to 31 members including an additional sponsor teacher!
It is inspiring to watch God move in the hearts of young people to impact the lives of so many little ones in North Korea! We wait with anticipation to see what is to come in the future for this First Steps Club and in the lives of these passionate young people.