Systems, structure, strategies and how to manage them all need to grow with the organization. But it doesn’t stop there. Our own capacities and roots need to grow. If CLDI is going to continue the work of transformation in the lives of the people we serve, we must be willing to experience transformation in our own lives as well. We must become healthy leaders.
As a new fiscal year begins at CLDI, we pause to remember God’s faithfulness, renew our vision, and consider what He has entrusted to us. Our calling isn’t to manufacture abundance, but to faithfully steward what He has already placed in our hands—and trust Him for the next step.
I want the students to know something different: they already are important. They already hold value. They do not have to perform, achieve, or compete for our attention. Their worth is not something to be earned, but something they already hold.
You cannot lecture a kid out of a dysregulated nervous system. You meet it with presence, safety, and repetition until the brain slowly learns a new normal, which is what our Youth Works staff does.
When a child is consistently surrounded by safe people, healthy community, meaningful experiences, and the love of Jesus, their story begins to bend in a different direction. Not instantly. But truly. One summer may not fix everything. But one summer can begin to change everything.
Scripture tells us that the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies are new every morning. What science is now confirming is something God has woven into creation from the beginning: consistent love reshapes us. We are formed, healed, and restored through relationship with others and with the Lord.
Some people don’t need a spotlight to make an impact.
They show up quietly.
They serve consistently.
And over time, they become part of the foundation.
Kammy Perdew is one of those people.
This Valentine’s season, CLDI reflects on love that shows up—lived through service, faithfulness, and Christ-centered action by our volunteers and partners.
2025 Annual Report: Taking a close look at the impact your investment made over the 2025 year. Josh Gilligan, CLDI’s Board Chair shares some thoughts.
Kaleb Perdew, executive director of CLDI, shares gratitude as he reflects over 2025 and a renewed commitment looking into 2026.