This past May, I had the joy of celebrating my firstborn’s graduation. As I look back on the past 18 years, I see how God has faithfully guided our family in preparing him for the next steps of life. By His grace, we helped him build a strong foundation rooted in Scripture. Growing up as a CPK (Children’s Pastor’s Kid), he is now taking ownership of his faith—and we could not be more proud of the young man he has become.
From the beginning, we were intentional about cultivating an environment where conversations about current events, politics, and government flowed naturally. Whether around the dinner table or on car rides, these discussions became part of everyday life. He especially loved hearing his grandparents share about their involvement in local county politics and the importance of exercising the right to vote. His 18th birthday present to himself was registering to vote. WWII became his favorite war era to study and over time, he developed a deep appreciation for freedom and a love for America’s Christian heritage. From attending CHEO Capitol Day at the Ohio Statehouse, to learning through homeschooling, to meeting elected officials face-to-face—each experience gave him a clearer picture of what citizenship really means.
As parents, I believe we should never shy away from discussing these topics with our children. Understanding our role as citizens—at the community, state, and national levels—is not only important, but essential in equipping them for the future.
Two opportunities in particular had a lasting impact on our son: joining a Speech and Debate Team and attending TeenPact Leadership Schools. At the Ohio TeenPact Four Day Class, he experienced a hands-on crash course in state government. He learned how to research and read bills, participate in a mock election, meet public officials, and engage in parliamentary debate alongside his peers. But the experience wasn’t just academic—it was deeply spiritual. He gained a clearer biblical understanding of our responsibility as Christians: to vote faithfully and to pray for our leaders.
For years, I had heard from friends about how TeenPact shaped their children’s lives and opened doors to incredible opportunities. When my son was finally old enough to attend, I was thrilled! He came home from his first class so inspired that he declared, “I have to go to National Convention!” The very next month, we sent him to the campus of Lee University for a weeklong TeenPact National Convention, where he forged friendships that continue to this day.
What I never expected was how God would also draw me into TeenPact. Not long after, I stepped into the role of Ohio State Coordinator. Serving in this capacity has been an incredible blessing. Each year, I get to witness “lightbulb moments” as students realize how much they’ve grown—not only in their understanding of government, civics, and leadership, but also in their faith.
Looking back, I am thankful our son grew up in a home where topics like government and politics were openly discussed. That foundation has shaped him into a confident young adult and engaged citizen, ready to make a difference in both his community and his country.
As a parent, I encourage you to lean into these conversations with your own children. Talk about the issues that matter. Teach them the importance of being informed and involved. Most importantly, help them see that faith and citizenship go hand in hand. Programs like TeenPact can be powerful tools in equipping the next generation—not just with knowledge, but with conviction and purpose. Together, we can raise young people who are prepared to lead with wisdom, courage, and faith.
To learn more about TeenPact, visit https://teenpact.com/states/oh/. Sign up in September for the April 13-17, 2026 classes, and save with the Double Early Bird Discount!
About the Author
Lisa Hamer serves as the Ohio State Coordinator for TeenPact Leadership Schools. She is passionate about equipping the next generation to engage with their faith and their government with wisdom, courage, and conviction. Lisa enjoys investing in her local community, serving in her local church, spending time with family and friends, and cheering on her children as they pursue God’s calling in their lives.
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