In this episode, Clay sits down with Josie Perez, a 15-year-old who has been a part of the Metro family for her entire life. Growing up in a faith-centered environment, she experienced firsthand the impact of community outreach programs, summer camps, and church services. Despite facing personal struggles, she has emerged as a strong leader among her peers, using her experiences to inspire and support others. Today, she continues her journey by volunteering at camps and being involved in youth worship, demonstrating her commitment to faith and service.

Josie’s story is one of resilience. She grew up attending sidewalk church services at Dallas Metro and summer camps, where she first encountered faith in a meaningful way. As she got older, she became more involved in youth camps, finding strength in worship and the support of her community. However, challenges at home made her withdraw, struggling to balance her personal pain with her desire to protect her younger sister. During this time, she distanced herself from others and even from God.

The turning point in Josie’s life came at a recent youth camp, where she experienced a powerful renewal of faith. She realized that despite the hardships, she needed God more than ever. That moment of surrender transformed her perspective, and she fully embraced her faith once again. Now, Josie is not only a participant but also a leader, stepping up to help guide younger generations. She has taken on a role in the church’s worship team and serves as a mentor for younger children at camps, proving that through faith and perseverance, one can overcome even the most difficult seasons of life.

Josie’s journey is a testament to the impact of faith-based outreach programs. Her story is just one of many, and as we look to the future, we invite you to be part of our mission to reach and support more young lives. Visit DallasMetro.org to learn more about how you can get involved in making a difference today. Be sure to like and subscribe to this podcast for more inspiring stories like Josie's!

In this episode, Pastor Clay sits down with Tito (Juan) Armendariz grew up in Dallas, Texas, surrounded by a strong, faith-driven family. His grandparents played a significant role in shaping his beliefs, modeling a deep relationship with God. Though his school friends call him Juan, the nickname “Tito” stuck after a young cousin mispronounced “Juanito.” Now in eighth grade, Tito has been involved with Dallas Metro since childhood, first attending their sidewalk programs and later participating in summer and youth camps, where he strengthened his faith and built lasting connections.

For much of his childhood, Tito struggled to understand the challenges happening within his family. When his parents separated, he initially blamed himself, withdrawing from others and battling feelings of depression. However, over time, he realized that even in difficult moments, God had a plan for his life. Through Dallas Metro, he found a supportive community that encouraged him to grow. Youth camps pushed him beyond his comfort zone, helping him open up and develop meaningful relationships—with others and with God.

Today, Tito looks back on his journey with gratitude. He no longer sees his struggles as burdens but as testimonies of faith and resilience. His family is in a better place, and he recently experienced something he never thought possible—a cruise with his loved ones, a symbol of how much life has changed. While challenges remain, he has learned that God is always present, even in the lowest moments.

Tito hopes that others going through similar struggles will know they are not alone. He encourages them to seek God, trust in His plan, and open their hearts to support from those who care. His story is a reminder that faith can transform lives, and organizations like Dallas Metro play a crucial role in bringing hope to young people.

Please like and subscribe to hear more stories like Tito’s. Support Dallas Metro at www.dallasmetro.org.

Join Pastor Clay as he interviews Kevin “KB” Belcher. Kevin grew up in the projects, surrounded by crime, violence, and poverty. With few positive role models, he idolized the drug dealers and gang leaders who seemed to have power and success. That path led him into trouble, and before he knew it, he was facing a 99-year prison sentence. But God had other plans. Instead of a life behind bars, Kevin was given the chance to enter Teen Challenge, a Christian rehabilitation program. At first, he resisted, but over time, God transformed his heart, leading him away from the life he once knew and toward a calling to help others escape the same cycle of destruction.

After completing Teen Challenge, Kevin committed himself to ministry, spending 13 years working with the organization. He had a gift for connecting with the most difficult cases—young men who resisted change, just as he once had. He knew their struggles firsthand, and through patience, love, and the power of God, he helped break down their walls. His work extended beyond Teen Challenge when he partnered with Clay at Dallas Metro, an inner-city ministry dedicated to reaching children and their families in some of the most dangerous neighborhoods. Together, they brought hope to places where hope seemed lost, knocking on doors, ministering to kids, and watching as entire families were transformed by the Gospel.

Today, Kevin continues to serve, now working in civil service while still being deeply involved in ministry. He recently married, a testimony to how God reveals blessings in His perfect timing. His story is one of redemption—not just his own, but of countless others whose lives he has touched. Whether through Teen Challenge, Dallas Metro, or personal discipleship, Kevin’s mission remains the same: to show people that no matter how broken their past, God has a future for them. As Dallas Metro prepares to build a new community center for at-risk youth, Kevin stands as living proof that such ministries change lives.

Be sure to like and subscribe to this channel for more inspiring stories like Kevin's.

In this episode Pastor Clay visits with special guest April Monk, a dedicated volunteer and mentor who has been an integral part of Dallas Metro since the late 1990s. April worked in one of the most challenging neighborhoods in South Dallas, demonstrating faithfulness and commitment in a place where such traits were rarely seen.

Originally from Quinlan, Texas, April’s journey into urban outreach began through a family connection, leading her to Turner Courts, a neighborhood known for its hardships. Despite having no prior experience in inner-city ministry, she quickly embraced the mission, forming deep bonds with the children and becoming a consistent and compassionate mentor. Working alongside other volunteers, she helped bring faith-based programs to families in need, witnessing firsthand the power of consistency and faith in breaking cycles of poverty.

Over the years, April has played a vital role in youth programs, community outreach, and life-changing summer camps, seeing kids she once mentored grow into responsible adults, some even returning to serve in the ministry. Her story is a testament to the impact of faith, dedication, and service in transforming lives.

Tune in to hear April’s powerful journey and reflections on her time with Dallas Metro. To learn more about Dallas Metro and how you can get involved, visit DallasMetro.org.

In this episode of the Dallas Metro Podcast, Pastor Clay sits down with Bianca Pruitt Cox, a nurse educator whose journey is one of resilience, faith, and service. Born into a difficult family situation, Bianca was largely raised by her older sister and found a second family within the church community at Bethel Assembly. The love and support she received there shaped her future and gave her the foundation to pursue her dreams.

Bianca originally planned to become a teacher, but while working as an aide in a nursing home, a mentor recognized her compassion and encouraged her to consider a career in nursing. Although she initially doubted her abilities, she went on to earn a degree in Early Childhood Education before ultimately finding her calling in healthcare. Today, she not only serves as a nurse educator but also works alongside her husband, Dr. Bill Cox, at his internal medicine practice, helping patients navigate their health journeys with knowledge and confidence.

Throughout her life, Bianca has witnessed firsthand the challenges within the medical field, particularly the spread of misinformation that leaves patients feeling lost and fearful. She believes that finding a compassionate and trustworthy doctor is crucial to receiving quality care. Her husband, Bill, has been a role model in this regard, having been called to medicine at the age of five through a dream. For him, medicine is not just a profession but a purpose, and Bianca admires his unwavering dedication to his patients.

Beyond her career, Bianca is passionate about encouraging others to overcome adversity. She shares how a teacher once told her she would never go to college, a statement she refused to accept. Instead, she held onto the belief that her future was not determined by her past. She credits her faith for guiding her path and often reflects on the promise of Jeremiah 29:11, which speaks of God’s plans for a hopeful future.

Bianca is also a strong advocate for the work being done at Dallas Metro Ministries. She believes in the power of investing in people’s lives, not just through temporary assistance but by equipping them with the skills and opportunities to build a better future. She sees this mission as an extension of her own life story, a testament to the importance of community, faith, and perseverance.

Her story is one of transformation, shaped by the kindness of others, the strength of her faith, and the dedication to helping people, whether in a hospital, a doctor’s office, or through the ministries of Dallas Metro. Bianca Pruitt Cox is a reminder that no matter where you come from, your future is still unwritten, filled with possibility and hope.

Be sure to like and subscribe for more powerful stories!

Join Pastor Clay on the Dallas Metro Podcast as he sits down with Pastor Allison Medley, a long-time advocate for children’s ministry and a devoted supporter of Dallas Metro Ministries.. In this heartfelt episode, Pastor Allison shares her journey of serving children and their families, her passion for instilling Christ’s love in young hearts, and her deep commitment to building a strong foundation of faith in the next generation.

Learn about her educational background from Southwestern Assemblies of God University, her life as a wife to Pastor Chris Medley, and a mother to their three wonderful children—Foster, Landrie, and Lincoln. Discover the joys and challenges of her ministry, her love for simple pleasures like cookies, Mexican food, and sunshine, and how her approachable and genuine spirit inspires others to follow Christ. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, faith, and a profound love for God’s work!

In this episode, we are honored to feature Roland “Santa” Moore, a dedicated volunteer who, along with his wife Donna "Mrs. Claus", has served at Metro for nearly three decades. What began as a Christmas tradition evolved into their involvement in many of Metro’s major events, including Queen for a Day and Summer Camp.

Roland and Donna are shining examples of what it means to be true servants, consistently giving their time and energy to make a difference in the lives of others. Join us as Roland shares their journey, the joy of serving, and the impact they’ve seen throughout the years.

Tune in to hear this inspiring story of selflessness and community impact, and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories like this from the Dallas Metro Podcast.

In Episode #57 of the Dallas Metro Podcast, we are honored to welcome Erica Johnson, whose lifelong connection with Dallas Metro exemplifies the organization’s profound impact on families and communities.

Erica’s journey with Dallas Metro began nearly three decades ago when, at the age of four, she attended her first Metro Kids program in North Dallas. Encouraged by her older brother, she and her siblings became regular participants, eagerly attending weekly sessions and Sunday Metro Church services. The consistent visits from Metro staff to their home fostered a deep sense of belonging and community.

At eleven, Erica’s family faced significant challenges in their North Dallas neighborhood, marked by violence and instability. Recognizing their plight, Pastor Clay extended an invitation to reside at the Metro Apartments, offering them a safer and more nurturing environment. This move provided Erica and her family with a renewed sense of security and hope.

As a teenager, Erica actively engaged in Metro Youth programs, which opened doors to experiences beyond her immediate surroundings. Through mission trips and excursions to cities like Austin, San Antonio, Chicago, and Denver, she broadened her horizons and developed a passion for service. Fundraising initiatives, including car washes and Junior Achievement programs, taught her valuable life skills and the importance of community involvement.

Throughout her involvement, Erica was deeply influenced by the teachings of the Word of God and the unwavering support of the Metro staff. The love and guidance she received have been instrumental in shaping her values and commitment to serving others.

Now in her 30s, Erica carries forward the Dallas Metro legacy with her husband and two daughters, ensuring that the spirit of community and service remains a cornerstone of their family life.

Join us in this heartfelt episode as Erica shares her inspiring story, reflecting on the transformative power of community support and faith through her enduring relationship with Dallas Metro.