BISMARCK, N.D. (KXNET) — As a community, we need to ensure our youth have the support they need to become the leaders of tomorrow.
Fortunately, Bismarck's new and unique program aims to do just that.
The basement of Bismarck's New Song Church is a little surprising. It's a boxing gym. However, this additional space allows for more than just sports classes.
“This is a boxing ministry to prevent destructive decisions in our youth and our communities,” explained Michael Rosario, executive director of NevaaH Boxing Ministries. “And it's based on faith. We plant that Jesus seed.”
Rosario and Nick Runningbear, the department's boxing coach, have years of boxing experience (and numerous awards), but they also know the negative effects a troubled past can have on a person. Both men say they have struggled with drug addiction at some point in their lives.
“That's how the devil made me fall into addiction,” Rosario said. “I was in so much pain and hurt so much that I couldn't trust anyone anymore. But once I forgave everyone, that was my healing.”
They credit their salvation to Jesus and are now helping children in their situation by offering free boxing lessons as a way to teach discipline and an outlet for their frustrations. Helping.
“You can take away the aggression,” RunningBear said. “It's a controlled attack. It allows you to leave your stuff behind, and it also helps with focus and respect.”
The two focus on training their children not only physically but also mentally and spiritually. Rosario says it doesn't matter what background the children come from, their service can help them all. Both Rosario and Running Bear want to provide discipline, community, and love to children as part of their goal of eliminating hate from the nation's capital.
“I know what it takes to achieve that big dream and how to work for it,” Running Bear continued. We need God in our lives to provide that, and we're going to give these kids big dreams. ”
“All children go through something in their lives,” Rosario concluded. We teach them everything, including how to become young men and women of the kingdom. They just grow as they come and we teach them respect, we teach them manners, and we teach them about life. ”
So far, the boxing ministry has helped about 25 to 30 children between the ages of 4 and 17, but Rosario and Running Bear said that number is growing rapidly.
If you are interested in enrolling your child in the ministry, please contact us at Nevaahsboxingministry@gmail.com.
