Youth leader helps raise money for youth retreat through rummage sale

Apopka resident Matt Butschek and the members of Freedom Fellowship Church in Ocoee are coming together to help raise money for its summer youth retreat through a series of rummage sales. 

Butschek, who is a fireman, missionary, and one of the youth leaders at the church, said he and his wife are in their third year of leading the youth group. 

"We love building relationships with the kids and being there for them," Butschek said. "Sometimes teenagers need someone to talk to during difficult times, help with some life questions or just need a shoulder to cry on as they experience life. If we can just help give them hope or direction that can help them now or as they make decisions in the future, it can be very beneficial or rewarding."

Butschek said he knows how hard life can be and said it would have been nice having someone to speak to when he was at a younger age, who could help him make better decisions.

"I was 21 years old and I was in the world and I was walking in the kingdom of darkness, little did I know, and the Lord brought me over into the kingdom of light," Butschek said. "It changed my whole outlook on life and who I am as a person."

Now, at age 47, Butschek has been part of the church for 25 years. He and his wife have four kids, their three oldest who are in the youth group, ages 11, 15 and 17. 

The youth group has about 45 students and plans to head to the retreat this summer from June 21 through June 25.

Butschek said the youth group travels to a small city in Louisiana where they are connected to a network of churches all around the states. He said there are about 300 to 400 youth students that meet up for a four night retreat of learning, encouragement, worship and fun.

The most recent rummage sale was held this past weekend, and although the church does not have an exact date for the next one, they hold about three rummage sales every year. According to Butschek, the next ones will most likely be at the end of February and in May. 

Butschek said people can always help with donations of any kind.

"Community donations are a huge blessing," Butschek said. "If monetary it helps support teenagers to go to a youth retreat that might not be able to afford it or help them raise money towards the costs. Without community donations, we would not have anything to sell to raise money. Having people help is such a blessing and it can help bring a community together."

For those that would like to get more involved or help, they can contact Matt Butschek at 407-948-2612. 

Those who wish to donate can also visit the church's website here.