Helping Transform Lives in Houston's Greater Third Ward

HOPE, ENCOURAGEMENT, MENTORSHIP, AND SUPPORT THROUGH THE FORGE FOR FAMILIES

Since Second Baptist first partnered with The FORGE in 2008, the ministry has grown from after-school enrichment, basketball camps and mentoring for middle school students into a comprehensive support system for children, teens and families. Today, The FORGE provides academic enrichment, athletics, mentoring, leadership and career development, summer programming and partnerships with local schools—all designed to help young people discover their God-given potential while strengthening the families and community around them. At the heart of that ministry is The FORGE campus, a safe and welcoming place where children and teens from the surrounding neighborhood can learn, play, build relationships and simply have a place to belong. Through years of faithful partnership, Second Baptist has helped The FORGE create an environment where young people are known, encouraged and given opportunities to grow while experiencing the love of Christ.

Jarren's Story

Jarren grew up in Houston with his family. His mom and dad worked hard to provide for him, and during his high school years, he embraced an opportunity that would change his life. Through The FORGE, Jarren joined the basketball team and became part of what God was doing through the ministry. 

At The FORGE, Jarren was able to play the sport he loved while also gaining life lessons through its programs. Coaches and mentors invested in him, sharing their time and the truth of God’s Word. During those years, Jarren realized he had the opportunity not only to attend college but also to play basketball. He became the first person in his family to not only attend college but also graduate. 

Even while away at school, the relationships and mentors he found through The FORGE continued to encourage and support him. Afterward, the Lord opened the door for him to return to Houston with a job opportunity. 

Today, Jarren is working, seeking what the Lord has for him next, and giving back as a coach for The FORGE basketball team. He says it’s surreal to encourage younger players because it wasn’t long ago, he was in their shoes. Jarren would tell you that, though we don’t always see God’s plan, we should take advantage of every opportunity because we never know what God is going to do.