This summer, there are many different summer programs and activities, educational and recreational, in which children can stay active and have their minds stimulated.

One summer program that seems to cover a wide scope of activities and topics is Purpose of God Annex Outreach Center Summer Program for at-risk youth. Bishop and Mother Jones along with the staff at POG have set up an interesting and worthy community outreach program.

Yesterday, Bishop Jones walked out into the backyard where kids enrolled in the summer program were having their recreational period. These ranged from smaller kids in bounce houses, on see-saws and on inflatable water slides to bigger kids playing basketball on a small court behind the center.

Jones yelled out, “Pop tall,” a military term used to get the kids’ attention.

“Who’s in charge?” Jones asked the kids.

“You are, sir!” the kids replied.

“When?” Jones asked.

“All the time, sir!” the kids replied.

“Is that a fact?” Jones asked.

“That’s a fact, Jack!” the kids replied.

It was amazing to see each and every child stop and stand at attention as soon as Jones said “Pop tall.” Each and every child, in unison, answered Jones and you could hear a pin drop.

This demonstrated the kids’ respect for Jones. He takes the time to get to know each and every child, and he respects his or her individuality. They seem to understand this and they respect him, too.

Jones and his staff at the Purpose of God Annex Outreach Center are running a great program that not only keeps young minds stimulated, out of trouble and moving in the right direction, but they also aid in bringing up fine young men and women, teaching them to carry themselves with honor, dignity, respect and class. They also focus on the importance of these kids learning to coexist, treating each other with respect and working together to achieve goals.

It is a blessing to have such an organization in this community that reaches out to at-risk youth and attempts to instill in them good values and morals. The center is currently accepting applications for enrollment in their summer program, which runs until Aug. 15. — a week before school starts back up.

If you would like your child to participate in a great summer program, this would be one that will keep your child’s mind and body stimulated and that will teach him or her a priceless set of social and life skills.

To read more about the Purpose of God Annex Outreach Center, please see Saturday’s Faith and Family feature in the Washington Daily News. To get more information about the POG Annex Outreach Center Summer Program, contact the center at 252-974-1484 or visit the center at 1015 East Sixth St., Washington.