Hello, my name is David Jones, and I am 67 years old. I am one of twelve siblings, and I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. My parents, who valued Christian education, sent me to a Christian school where I began learning about the Lord. From a young age, my mother instilled in me the importance of respecting others, whether they were young or old. She made sure I went to Sunday school, where I developed a personal relationship with the Lord.

Growing up in Chicago, I realized early on that life here is about who you know, not just what you know. I’ve always loved people—young and old alike—and I’ve tried my best to show that love throughout my life. Despite the challenges, I've been blessed to serve in ministry for over 45 years, sharing God’s love and guidance with others.

A pivotal moment in my journey occurred last summer when I lost someone very special to me—my daughter, Davida, who I love deeply. Her memory remains with me, and it fuels my passion for serving others in the way she would have wanted.

You may be wondering, why should you choose us at the Doodleville Community Development Center? Many years ago, I heard the Lord's calling to love young people and serve the elderly. I dedicated my life to these calls, often putting others before myself, trusting God and the leading of the Holy Spirit for over 27 years. I didn't have a lot of money, but I had the love and faith to make a difference.

One evening, while walking through the neighborhood, I found myself praying. As I walked down Main Street, I heard the voice of the Lord clearly: "Do you see this building?" I looked up and saw a sign that read, "Century 21 – For Sale". I laughed to myself and said, "Lord, you see that big sign? It says the building is for sale!"

But the Lord's voice was persistent, saying, "This is your building." At first, I doubted. I didn't have any money, but I trusted in His plan. I asked around the neighborhood about the building, but no one seemed to know who owned it. Finally, I spoke to the mailman, who agreed to look into it for me.

A few days later, he came back and gave me the owner's address. The next evening, I went to meet the owner. I knocked on the door, and the owner’s daughter welcomed me in. After a brief wait, the owner arrived. She took one look at me and said, "A lot of people want to buy my building, but why should I sell it to you?"

I boldly shared my faith: "I would like to use this building to teach children about God's Word." To my surprise, the owner responded, "You would take that 'damnable' building and turn it into a church?"

I said, "Yes, ma’am, I would."

She then said, "Can you meet me next Thursday?" That following week, we went to the Recorder of Deeds office, and she signed the building over to me—without asking for a single dime in return. I was amazed at how the Lord had provided.

I left that day with a new sense of purpose and faith in God's promises. Today, I am honored to ask for your support in our work at Doodleville Community Development Center. We need your help to continue impacting lives in this community, and I humbly request that you consider partnering with us.

God bless you, and thank you for your consideration.