The Need in the community

• Cleveland Count population is estimated at 228,594
• 84% are under 54 (or 192,018)
• 70% are under 44 (or 160,015)
• Norman's growing faster and younger than the rest of Oklahoma.
• Nearly 90% of all persons who accept Christ do so before 20 years of age (The Bridger Generation, Thom Ranier).

Wildwood has doubled since moving into our new worship center in 2002. The growth in numbers has led to maxing out physical space each Sunday, especially in our youth and children's ministries. Just last month we had 25 third graders crowded into West 6 at 10:40 am on a Sunday morning. Across the hall, our youth ministry is so full that newcomers are literally leaving because they cannot find a seat.

In order to continue to Shine as Light in our community, we need to create more physical space for children since our greatest growth potential, and our community's greatest needs, are in the areas of young families.