In 1980, Pastor Bill Wilson managed to successfully establish Metro World Child (formerly Metro Ministries) in one of Brooklyn’s roughest neighborhoods. At the time, the area was ridden with crime, violence and drugs. Wilson, at one point, was even beaten and shot in the face.

Even so, he refused to turn away from the children in the neighborhood. Against all odds, Wilson worked diligently in order to lay the foundation for what would eventually become the world’s largest Sunday School weekly.

Today Metro World Child (metroworldchild.org) operates programs at over 200 sites, including in New York City, the Philippines, South Africa, India and Romania. In addition, the faith-based humanitarian organization serves over 150,000 children every week through its Sunday School services, after school programs and home visits.

Metro World Child also pioneered the concept of the Sidewalk Sunday School. In this program, a fleet of mobile trucks travel to inner-city locations across all five boroughs in order to minister to kids who live too far away from traditional church services.

Inside the trucks, a portable stage and shelves full of games and props are neatly stored. They are used by the trained staff as a way to connect with the children and teach them morals about life.

Ultimately, through mentorship and ministry, Metro World Child hopes to build a future for kids who live in adverse conditions, as well as counteract the negative effects of poverty and violence in inner-city neighborhoods.