Children's program here provides structure, discipline through high-energy activities

By Amy SunseriMarch 16, 2013

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1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Members of the Fort Huachuca Awana, or Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed, compete against local Awana groups March 2 to see which youth have designed the fastest, sturdiest cars. Awana, a discipleship program, is patterned after Scouting but with emph... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
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2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

Fort Huachuca, Az. - The chapel-sponsored Awana club is molding children in a positive light. The discipleship program on Fort Huachuca uses high-energy activities and games, Scripture memorization and interactive Bible lessons to develop each child's relationship with Jesus Christ, according to Fred Robinson, installation director of religious education.

Awana stands for Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed, which is taken from the Bible verse 2 Timothy 2:15, "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."

The organization is designed for pre-kindergarten through 6th grade children. Currently, Fort Huachuca has three clubs: Cubbies Club for pre-k children; the Sparks Club for grades K-2; and the Truth and Training Club, or T&T, for grades 3-6. It is similar to Scouting.

"Any child from the military community can join," Robinson said. The clubs on post have more than 100 registered children.

"Over 30 parent-volunteers give their time to make it happen. It is clear that parents are looking for an organization for their children that is fun and teaches Biblical truth and values," Robinson explained.

Awana meets every Wednesday from 5:30 -- 7:30 p.m. at the Main Post Chapel. The children rotate between three activities: a gospel message/Bible story time, verse memorization in small groups and game time. The night concludes with a weekly closing ceremony highlighting the clubbers who have memorized their verses. The children earn vests and badges as they learn their Scripture.

"Those who take part in the organization grow in their knowledge of the Bible, make friends, and simply have fun," Robinson added.

During the first weekend of March, Fort Huachuca members took part in the Awana Grand Prix with groups from off post, a pinewood derby-style car race on a wooden four-lane track. Awards were given out for speed and design as well as trophies for first, second and third place in each club.

For more information on Awana, go to www.awana.org. Those seeking information on Fort Huachuca's club should contact FHAwana@hotmail.com.