Meet Richard Marks
Class of 2009
- Inner-city missionary
- Leader
- Musician
- Athlete
- Fellowship
I have a huge heart for kids. I believe God is calling me to work with kids, to somehow make a difference in their lives. I find no greater joy than to surround myself with kids, to play with them, laugh with them, cry with them, mentor them, and on and on. For the past few summers, I’ve worked at Kids Across America Kamps (KAA), which is a camp primarily attracting inner-city kids. It is such an awesome opportunity. In addition, I went on a mission trip to Houston last January and worked with inner-city kids. Our mission’s team devoted all of our time and effort toward those kids. Ironically, though, I feel that I walked away with more of a blessing than the kids did!
Recently, I have been named the Programs Director for one of the divisions at KAA. This allows me to plan activities, games, parties, etc. for the kids and make sure everything runs smoothly. At times, I have to use disciplinary action on the kids in order to help them grow and mature. God has revealed to me unique ways in which to communicate effectively and get through to the kids. It is a great privilege for me to be a role model for young ones. Also, I have been asked to be a co-leader on the next mission’s trip to Houston in January. I look forward to leading our team into the streets of Houston, and I will spend the months before becoming spiritually equipped!
Music is a huge part of my life. Psalm 108:1 says, “My heart is steadfast, O God; I will sing and make music with all my soul.” God has blessed me with the ability to think creatively. I oftentimes sit down and write lyrics that God has placed on my heart. I also enjoy playing the djembe (a type of hand drum). I typically play in the worship band for my college group at church. I also enjoy taking the djembe with me as I interact with kids, because it helps me to speak to them through music and song.
I absolutely love being active. I love most sports, especially football and basketball, but I usually never turn down an opportunity to play anything. In high school, I participated in most sports, including: basketball, baseball, football, and track. Having a competitive nature, I enjoy playing on the intramural teams here at SBU. For two years, I was an active member of the spirit squad at SBU. I also work at the YMCA in Bolivar. It is not unusual for me to stay after work to join in a game of dodge ball or basketball with the kids. I think I may even have more fun than they do!
I love people, and I look forward to the opportunity to get to socialize with a good friend or with someone new. My philosophy is that there are no strangers in life. In other words, everyone I pass is important (after all, we are all God’s creation) and should be treated as such. It is amazing to me how much God can reveal in complete strangers. I also enjoy hanging out with friends, playing games, watching movies, talking, etc. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” God has placed so many positive influences in my life, especially strong, Godly men, and I enjoy the opportunity to be sharpened!
