Charity&ChildrenAnd now abides faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina

129/3

Still time to share hope of Easter. (page 5) Food Roundup collection locations announced. (page 8)

4/16

[ “Spirituality doesn’t exist in and of itself.” – Blackwell }[ “We are to be mirrors reflecting the Jesus in us. . .” – Edminson }

Paige lowered her microphone. She had prac-ticed for weeks. But now that the last chord

faded into the large crowd, the fears and voicesfrom her past made her heart sink instead of soar.

The crowd rose to their feet as she walkedfrom the church’s stage. Baptist Children’sHomes president/CEO Michael C. Blackwell was there to greet her. She immediately apolo-gized to him. Instead of tears of joy, tears of embarrassment flowed down her cheek.

“It was the worst I’d ever done,” she said.Blackwell looked her in the eyes and said, “Stopit right there.”

He told her she did a good job and asked herto say it too: “I did a good job.” “Again,” hesaid. And she repeated, “I did a good job.”

Blackwell’s encouragement and affirmationwere like salve applied to soothe a wound.

Before coming to Baptist Chil-dren’s Homes(BCH), the 18-year-old had beenbullied.

“People made fun of me,” sheconfides. “My home life, the way

I looked, it didn’t matter. People judged me. Itwas hard.”

Growing beyond the hardships of being raisedin a home where both parents used and solddrugs was at times insurmountable. Paige recallsthe burden of being their caregiver as a younggirl. Cooking and cleaning was her responsibilitymost days. Instead of coming home from schoolto a healthy snack, chatter about her day, and the

promise of a good dinner, she walked in, placedher book bag in her room, and became a parentto her parents.

“It was never enough,” Paige remembers.“After my dad died, things got worse. My mom’saddiction got worse. Itseemed the more I did,the more my mom pushedme away. It was like shewas rejecting me.”

Last year, Paige called the Department of Social Services herself. She felt she had nowhere else to turn. She wantedthem to help her mother, but they were deter-mined to help Paige.

“They tricked me,” she grins now, telling herstory. “I knew about Broyhill Home. We had dis-cussed it, and I refused to go.”

Paige was not happy when the car in which shewas riding drove up to the Broyhill driveway. “Imust have looked like I had a storm cloud abovemy head. I was angry, but that changed quickly.”

At first, Paige was leery about living in a cot-tage with only girls. She feared their judg-ment. “It wasn’t fair to the other girls, but Iwas sure the ‘girl drama’ would be just toomuch.”

Her fears were only fears. They fell awayas loving cottage parents wrapped emotional

and physical arms around her. She was able to bea child and experience others who cared for herand met her needs. The drama was minimal. Thejudgment was even less. Hope began to grow inher heart.

In her past life, Paige had fallen behind in (continued on page 3)

Eighteen-year-old Paige has set her focus on the future. She is graduating high school in May and plans to attend community college in the fall. Her renewed relationship with God has helped her tackle the anxiety that has plagued

her since she was a young child. Left, Paige captures a “selfie” with BCH president/CEO Michael C. Blackwell.

Paige determinedto overcome past___________________________________________________By Jim Edminson, Editor

H O P E HOPE changes lives and dispels

darkness.

Sharing Hope...Changing Lives Campaign at www.bchfamily.org/campaign____________________________________________________________________

.2 4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3

Charity & Children – Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, Inc., 204 Idol St., PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338. Michael C. Blackwell, publisher; Jim Edminson, editor (wjedminson@bchfamily.org); J. Blake Ragsdale, managing editor (jbragsdale@ bchfamily.org); Marcia Housand, account clerk. Charity & Children (ISSN 0009-1723-09 USPS 100-460) is published 11 times a year for friends and supporters of Baptist Children’s Homes. It is printed at Triangle Web Printing, Durham, NC and mailed by Excalibur,Winston-Salem, NC. Circulation: 62,000 seven times a year, 30,000 four times a year. Periodicals postage paid at Thomasville, NC, and at additional mailing offices. For free subscription or to be removed from the mailing list or make address correction orchange, use the above address and write to Attn: Circulation Manager, send an email to address@bchfamily.org or call at 336-474-1209. Subscribe online at www.bchfamily.org/charityandchildren. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Charity & Children, PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338.

Vision: sharing hope . . . changing lives

Mission: To provide the highest quality

of Christian services to children, adults

and families in a caring culture of

measurable excellence

This column begins a seriesof lessons on life’s mostimportant journey.

I have great news for you – God is loose!From humankind’s first spiritual yearn-

ings and awareness that there is a great, organizing principle to the universe that wecall God, we’ve tried to put this UltimateBeing into a box that can be identified,comprehended and bent to our will.

We’ve organized vast numbers of reli-gions around God, each slightly differentfrom the others, and then rushed to battleover the differences. We fight because thebox into which one group wanted to putGod is bigger or smaller or differentlyshaped than the box into which anothergroup wanted to confine God.

Because of those differences, some argue that any group other than their owndoes not worship the same God as they do.As a Christian, I firmly believe there is onlyone God.

I also know people understand God differently. Most of the world does not understand God as He revealed Himselfthrough Jesus. They don’t comprehend Godas three Persons in Father, Son and HolySpirit. But if they yearn for, seek and bowdown to God, they are humbling themselvesas the created before the Creator.

My act of faith is that Jesus is the ulti-mate revelation of God and that His deathon the cross and Resurrection from thedead is a historical fact and a spiritual truth.I have no idea why God planned it that way.

I believe that God loves us and has goneto the extraordinary measure of taking onhuman form so that we can actually relateto God despite our very limited human capacity – and that His will is that all besaved.

Here’s the thing: There are people recognized as spiritual human beings, evenby those who would not describe themselvesas spiritual. The Pope, by his election by a conclave of the College of Cardinals, isrecognized as an international spiritual

leader. The Dalai Lama is recognized as a spiritual human being because of theequanimity and pervasive personal peacethat emanates from him. Billy Graham is aspiritual person in the traditional Christiansense and is extraordinarily charismatic.

Humans know we are more than our frail flesh. We have in common an urgencyto be a part of something bigger, to be a part of the great, vast Whole. We’re awareof a spiritual self that yearns for God inwhom we can find meaning.

The term “spirit” refers to the “animat-ing or vital principle” in humans and ani-mals. It comes from the Latin word spiritus– soul, courage, vigor, breath.

If you have no regard for your spirituallife, or for that of your family and friends,how can you as a leader nurture that “vital,animating principle” in others?

Being spiritual also means maintaining a balance between duty, responsibility andpersonal meditative experiences in whichyou renew yourself and listen. If you don’tuse it you lose it. It’s not enough to knowabout prayer, to read about prayer, to discuss prayer with your friends and hearsermons about prayer. Only the act ofprayer, the intentional communing withGod, will accrue the benefits of prayer.

How else will you tune your dial to thatGreat Broadcast beyond you? And once you break through the clutter and begin toreceive nudges static-free, you must lock inthat frequency and preserve it by whatevermeans necessary: silence, prayer, meditation,mentorship, seminars, and conversationswith wise and spiritual people.

In the face of many other definitions –often conflicting – true religion as definedin the Bible is pretty simple:

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the

world. – James 1:27That’s where I’ve come down. That’s

what I’ve carried out in my life. I’m so fortunate to have been able to find thatsweet spot in life and career that so matchesmy heart and fits the biblical definition of pure religion.

Spirituality doesn’t exist in and of itself.You don’t just determine one day to be spiritual and then pencil a week into yourcalendar to go off on a spiritual retreat and“find God.”

Would you have a better life, a more spiritual and fulfilling life? Then do thework to discover your passion and find significance. Once you discover it, ride the wave.

What you want is a relationship with theUniversal Spirit, with God. Here are somebasic steps:

1. Listen. 2. Reflect on what you hear.3. Ask, “What do I need to do?” My

spiritual question is not “What would Jesus do?” My spiritual question is “What would Jesus have me do?”

4. Do it. When you hear a nudging answer, you are empowered and commissioned to do it. You have to execute, move out and do it. Or else the revelation just sits there.

I’m a more positive person today. I fill my thoughts with positive things and I believe that living in the spirit of gratitudeis the key to happiness. It’s a key to thewhole process of developing your spirituality.

Your attitude is more important than your mental capacity when it comes to developing your spirit. The Apostle Paul wrote: “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am.” – Philippians 4:11

Try it – you’ll like it!

The Spiritual QuestPART 1 By Michael C. Blackwell, President/CEO

The Spiritual Quest

Learn about the NC Baptist Aging Ministry at www.ncbam.org____________________________________________________________________

4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3 3.

The North Carolina Association on Aging(NCAOA) presented its premier award to

North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry(NCBAM) at its annual training conference inPinehurst on March 8. The NCAOA’s InnovativeProgram Award is part of its annual “Excellencein the Field of Aging/Reaching for the Stars”program. The Innovative Program award honorsan agency for innovative and creative programsthat enrich the lives of older adults.

NCBAM was nominated by Dennis Streets, di-rector of Chatham County Council on Aging andprevious director for the Aging Services Divisionof NC’s Department of Health and Human Serv-ices. In his nomination, Streets noted, “NCBAMexcels in collaboration with our statewide agingand adult services network. They have created abody of work and resources to address unchartedterritory while also serving as a genuine partner.From my personal experience, Dr. Gregory andhis staff have truly been a blessing – always re-spectful and always responsive – never settinghard boundaries in their visioning or work.”

LeeAnne Tucker, director of aging and volun-teer services for the Land of Sky Regional Coun-cil also nominated NCBAM for the prestigiousaward. In her nomination, Tucker notedNCBAM’s prevention programs, Rampin’ Up!,and NCBAM’s Call Center—noting that the CallCenter takes referrals from her agency and con-nects people in need with North Carolina Bap-tists who can help.

At the annual awards luncheon, Keith Henry,chief operating officer for Baptist Children’s

Home (BCH) accepted the award with Dr. SandyGregory, director of NCBAM. In accepting theaward, Henry noted that the 125-year old agencyhas grown to serve not only children, but fami-lies, developmentally disabled adults and most re-cently aging adults.

Dr. Michael C. Blackwell, BCH president/CEO and NCBAM founder was pleased with therecognition given to NCBAM. “The Innovative

Program Award is particularly fitting forNCBAM. Five years ago, there was absolutely nomodel for the ministry. There still is nothing likeit in the nation. Every program, every outreach,every service has been innovative. The NCBAMteam is constantly finding solutions and develop-ing strategic programs to work with NC Baptistsand other partners to meet the multifarious needsof aging adults.”

Pictured are the NCBAM Team, BCH’s COO Keith Henry, and several members of NCBAM’s Advisory Team prior to theawards luncheon in Pinehurst. The Advisory Team guests were Robert and Linda Leonard, Maxine Hare and husband Bill

Hare, Stan Heiser and wife Donna Heiser, Bobby Boyd and wife Nancy Boyd, Otis Goins, and Robert Simons.

[ NCBAM RECOGNIZED }

NCAOA awardhonors NCBAM___________________________________________________

picture yourself makinga difference!

Become a difference-makerat Baptist Children’s Homes. Career

opportunities are immediately available withBCH’s Developmental Disabilities Ministry andthe Weekday Education, children’s residential,and wilderness camp programs. Learn more &

apply at www.bchcareers.org

(continued from page 1)school. The former “A” student had become tru-ant in her sophomore year and some of her jun-ior year. Now, at Broyhill Home, she is able tofocus on catching up. An accelerated programproves to be the answer to keep her on track tograduate with her class.

“Focusing on education is important to me,”Paige says. “I’ve seen what it’s like to have nooptions. Being around drugs makes a personwant a better life.”

Out from beneath the shadow of living athome, Paige says she can put her needs beforeher family’s. “I can look at things and ask,‘What’s best for me?’”

After graduating high school in May, Paigeplans to attend community college and thentransfer to a university to study criminal justice.“I’ve always wanted to be a detective.”

These days, Paige is part of BCH’s TransitionalLiving program. The program helps residentsages 16 to 21 prepare for independence. Sheworks at a local pizza parlor and is saving hermoney.

“The love and security I’ve known in the lastyear is greater than I experienced in all my life

before coming to Broyhill Home,” Paige asserts.The most important change in Paige’s life

occurred last summer. As part of the youth groupfrom Dellwood Baptist Church in Waynesville,she attended youth summer camp at FortCaswell.

“We were attending worship times, and it be-came clear that I needed to be right with God,”Paige says. “I rededicated my life to Jesus and I see everything so differently.”

Paige says that much of the anxiety that she experienced over the years has lessened. She nolonger feels that everyone is out to get her, to be critical of her, or to hurt her. Trusting God for her future and resting in the assurance thatHe is ever present “makes all the difference.”

“I’ve always believed in God,” she says. “Evenin the worst time, I know He was always there –the bad just got in the way.”

Paige’s mom is doing better and is workinghard to overcome her addiction.

“BCH is life-changing,” Paige affirms. “I’vebegun to see the good in me. I’m growing in my faith and learning so much. The difference is stark. No child should have to grow up like I grew up.”

Paige takes running start at bright future____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Growth is happening at Baptist Children’sHomes (BCH)! Did you know?

• Last year, we cared for 21,876 individuals.• Our residential care (providing a home for

children) has increased by 24% in the past twoyears.

• Our ministry to families through our familycare program has increased by 314% in the pasttwo years.

• Our evangelism and outreach ministry hasincreased by 118%.

• Our ministry to aging adults continues togrow, offering services to the frail and well aging,as the number of aging 65+ in North Carolinagrows.

The tremendous needs of children and familiesacross North Carolina continue to challenge us.Stories of child abuse, domestic violence andabuse of aging adults is now a common threadthrough our reported news every day – so muchso that we have to guard our hearts to make surewe are not becoming numb to the pain allaround us.

A part of my prayer time each morning is asking God to open my eyes and my heart to the opportunities for that day to offer hope andease pain. There is a plaque in my office whichsays, “Be kinder than necessary, for everybody isfighting some kind of battle.” These are the firstwords I see when I walk into my office eachmorning. These words help me stay focused on the value and importance of those around me and the many opportunities to serve. I haveto admit that sometimes I get so caught up in the busyness of what I am doing. This gentle reminder brings me back to where I need to be.

Every day at Baptist Children’s Homes, we are

given opportunitiesof sharing hope. . .changing lives.Because you care,I believe that chil-dren and familieswill continue to be able to depend on BCH for physical,emotional and spiri-tual care.

Your prayer and financial support are critical to make sure BCHachieves the mission all of us feel God has calledus to fulfill. In September of 2013, our Board of Trustees approvedthe Sharing Hope. . .Changing Lives CapitalCampaign to help meet the ever increasingneeds. The campaign is rapidly moving to itscompletion date of September, 2016, and yetthere are still so many needs to be met. The chal-lenges and opportunities before us are three-fold.

• Renovation of Facilities: We presently need to raise $2.5 million for renovations. In thepast two years we have renovated and reopened a number of cottages. At this time we are in theprocess of renovating a cottage on the MillsHome campus and hope to renovate another cottage soon to be able to serve the increasingneeds.

Our properties and buildings in and of them-selves are not important. But in the right hands,they are tools to redirect the life of a child. Theybecome security for the night, hope for a futureand a foundation to stand on. The completion of these much needed repairs will provide more opportunities to serve more children

and families. It willgive us the ability to continue our quest to provide a Christian family-like environment conducive to enabling each onewho comes to us fighting their many battles, tofeel loved, safe, and begin to heal.

• Operational Support: With the tremendousincrease in needs, it stands to reason there is acritical need for funds to meet these needs. Wenever want to have to turn a child or anyone inneed away because of lack of funds.

• Increase Endowment to Provide Long-TermSustainability: We have been providing hope anda future for children since 1885 and we want to continue this tremendous mission God calledus to for many years to come or until he calls us home.

I am asking you to prayerfully consider makinga gift to the Sharing Hope. . .Changing LivesCampaign. A five year pledge period is available.There are many ways you can give, such as giftsof cash, stocks, real estate, life insurance, life income plans such as gift annuities, gifts in kind,or through a bequest. Your gift can be designatedfor a particular campus or a particular need.

And so I end with a challenge. Ask God toguard your heart against apathy and to open your eyes and heart to the opportunities beforeyou each day to offer hope and ease pain. As others before us helped us, let us help the children in care today and those who will cometomorrow. Let’s be about Kingdom building.Let’s make a difference!

For more information on the Sharing Hope. . .Changing Lives Campaign call meat 336-689-4442.

Leave a legacy through planned giving. Visit www.bchlegacy.org

Brenda Gray’s passion is children. She serves BCH as the executive vice president, development & communications. Gray directs all fund-raising/friend-raising activities for the state-wide services.

[ WORTHWHILE INVESTMENTS }

Offer hope, ease pain –Let’s make a difference_____________________________________________________________________________________

By Brenda B. Gray, Executive VP, Development & Communications

____________________________________________________________________

.4 4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3

A caring couple’s challenge gift offering to matchthe first $1 million pledged to BCH’s campaignthrough a planned gift is still available. Let us knowabout your planned gift today and see it double! The Sharing Hope. . .Changing Lives Capital Campaign encouragesBCH’s ministry partners to continue providing generous ongoing support while encouraging them to help the ministry grow throughCampaign gifts. Gifts can be made as an outright gift, a pledge overfive year, or a commitment through a planned gift.

Contact Brenda Gray at 336.689-4442 / bbgray@bchfamily.org

haring hope. . .hanging lives

Capital Campaign

$1 million challenge giftdoubles planned gifts

SC

[ E A S T E R A P P E A L }

Although Resurrection Sunday has passed,you can still help bring hope to precious children.When you give, your support provides a safe home,daily provisions and the loving care of Christianhouseparents. Please give. Go to www.bchfamily.org/givenow or mail your gift using the form below.

It’s not too lateto share the hope of Easter! Last year, children were forevertransformed as they invitedJesus into their hearts!

You made this possible!

Your gift can make a difference immediately — www.bchfamily.org/givenow____________________________________________________________________

4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3 5.

$50 $100 $250 $500 $ ______________ Any size gift!

Please use my gift to share the hope of Easter!

To make a gift by check, please print your information below and mail this form with your check.

Name ________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________________________________

City ___________________________ State ______ Zip __________ Phone __________________________________________ Email ______________________________________________

To make a gift by credit card: 1) Give online at www.bchfamily.org/givenow or, 2) Make your gift by phone by calling Faith Frazier at 336-474-1312.

Yes, I would like to receive email updates from Baptist Children's Homes.

Contact me with information on how to prepare a Christian Will. I have included Baptist Children’s Homes in my estate plans.

Mail to: BCHP.O. Box 338Thomasville, NC 27361

The first session of Baptist Children’s HomesUniversity (BCHU) convened February 16

at Mills Home in Thomasville. The inauguralclass of ten staff members from Baptist Children’sHomes’ (BCH) facilities around the State wereintroduced one-by-one as they entered the room.Supervisors, directors and BCH executive staffmembers attended. The University’s first sessionwas led by BCH president/CEO Michael C.Blackwell. His presentation was entitled: History,Heritage and You.

“BCHU was an idea that came out of a meet-ing with Dr. Blackwell,” BCH’s Chief OperatingOffice Keith Henry said. “We were discussing the ministry’s ‘culture of excellence’ and Dr. Blackwell asked, ‘What do we do now? What do we do to kick things up a notch?’”

Henry said the idea to produce a leadershipand talent management program covering eightcore areas topped the list of ideals. Henry envi-sioned a program that challenges participants toreach their “next best.” Blackwell asked Henry toprepare a proposal and the University was off andrunning.

“BCH has staff members who not only dotheir jobs, but look for ways to improve the overall ‘culture of excellence’ in their areas anddepartments,” Henry said. “BCHU wants tooffer these folks an opportunity to look closer athow things work day-to-day at Baptist Children’sHomes. Participants will be encouraged to reachnew personal heights.”

BCHU’s inaugural class consists of: JohnAdamcik, BCH Director of Human Resourcesand Safety; Kay R. Burriss, Assistant Director,Cameron Boys Camp; Brooke Child, AssistantDirector, Weekday Education Programs; ArwenElders, Groupwork Supervisor, Camp Duncan;Bradley Gearhart, Supervisor, Cameron BoysCamp; Bond Kiser, BCH Coordinator of Per-formance & Quality Improvement and HumanResources; Chip Theriault, Case Manager, MillsHome; Blake Ragsdale, BCH Director of Com-munications; Emily Waldroup, Case Manager,Truett Home; and Tabitha Ward, BCH Director

of Marketing. Henry says BCHU participants bring new

ideas to the areas in which they serve. They aretheir colleagues’ “go to people.” They are prob-lem solvers, they anticipate needs and they workto get the job done.

“You represent a great staff who do a great jobevery day,” Henry told the inaugural class as thesession began. “You have been selected by yoursupervisors, BCHU’s admission board, andBCH’s executive team because we believe you arelooking to reach your ‘next best.’”

Blackwell began his presentation by reflectingon the many who have come before and faithfullyserved. He reminded the inaugural group thatthey stand on “mighty shoulders.”

“There have been many who have led for noother reason than to serve children and familiesand to serve their Lord,” Blackwell said. “Those

are your role models.”Chip Theriault said that with the honor of

being selected “comes a duty to meet the expec-tations of current and past employees that havemade this institution so great.”

BCHU participant Arwen Elders said that shehoped to gain a deeper and broader understand-ing and appreciation for BCH as a whole. “See-ing how God has faithfully been at work throughthe struggles and challenges BCH has faced inthe past is a good reminder that He will continueto be our guide as together we navigate whateverobstacles the future may hold.”

Reflecting on her first completed session,Emily Waldroup said, “Our first class left mewanting to know more and made me even morethankful to be a part of this fantastic ministry.”

BCHU’s admission board will review new applications for admission every six months.

[ CULTURE OF EXCELLENCE }

BCH University:New opportunityto nurture staff___________________________________________________

By Jim Edminson, Editor

The ten participants of Baptist Children’s Homes University inaugural class attended the first session at Mills Home in Thomasville on February 16. The class will cover eight core competencies and participants are expected to complete

all competencies in two to three years. New members can be added every six months.

Be a part of BCH’s statewide events — www.bchfamily.org/events____________________________________________________________________

.6 4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3

Food Roundup: AprilFancy Finds:

Furniture Drive, Mills Home in Thomasville – April 2 Store Grand Opening, Mills Home in Thomasville – June 18

Friends of Children Workdays:Oak Ranch in Broadway –

April 30 and Sept. 24Camp Duncan in Aberdeen –

May 14 and Sept. 17Mills Home in Thomasville – Sept. 10Kennedy Home in Kinston – Sept. 10

Cameron Boys Camp – Sept. 10Odum Home in Pembroke – Sept. 17

Founders Days:Cameron Boys Camp – May 3Camp Duncan – Sept. 27

Broyhill BBQ Festival:Broyhill Home in Clyde – May 7

Hope in Style Fashion Show:Greensboro Country Club – Aug. 13

Western Area Conference:Broyhill Home in Clyde – Sept. 8

Week of Prayer: Nov. 13-20

Mark your calendarsand be a part of BCH’s2016 events. For moreinformation call 336-474-1209. More events will beadded soon.Please note that somedates & events havechanged.

More 2016 events slated! Check it out!

Your vehicle becomes a partof the BCH ministry when

you donate it!

Call Sam Barefootat 336-474-1224

Be a part of the motorcyle ride! Learn more at www.bchnc.org/ridetoclyde

Brian Davis remembers the thrill of being in-troduced to motorcycles when he was only

eight years old. Rit Varriale’s own recollection isvery similar as he fondly recalls his father sittinghim atop a motorcycle at the same young age.

“It’s a special bond my dad and I share,” Var-riale says. “My dad and I ride together today. Weparticipate together in different charity rides.”

Varriale, a former officer in the 82nd AirborneDivision, is now pastor of Elizabeth BaptistChurch in Shelby. Davis has served as pastor inchurches including Beulah Baptist in Statesvilleand First Baptist in East Flat Rock. Today, he isAssociate Executive Director-Treasurer for theBaptist State Convention ofNorth Carolina (BSC).

Much has changed since the two boys, fascinated bychrome and steel,have become adults.Their youthful passionfor motorcycle riding, how-ever, has not only carriedover into adulthood, butis now a personal part oftheir ministries.

This May, their passion for motorcycling andministry is being channeled into a brand newcharity ride and evangelism effort benefiting Baptist Children’s Homes (BCH) called the“Ride to Clyde.” Participating bikers will tourthree of BCH’s statewide locations from Thursday, May 5 to Saturday, May 8. The rideconcludes at Broyhill Home in Clyde and wel-comes bikers riding all brands of motorcycles.

The vision for the ride grew out of a conversa-

tion Varriale had with Davis when the Elizabeth Baptist Church pastor served

on BSC’s Board of Directors.“I had been a part of a ride to

benefit another children’s home,”Varriale recalls. “I asked Brian if this had

ever been done for BCH and he said a rideof this scale had not. Brian really pushedit forward from there.”

While motorcycle benefit rides forBCH taking place within a day are not

new, the idea to create a three-day ride involvingmultiple ministry locations has never been attempted.

“We want to bring riders together to generateawareness and funding for BCH, but we alsowant to encourage bikers who do not know Jesus to participate,” Davis explains. “Ride to Clyde brings things back to our goals as a Convention which is carrying out the GreatCommission and making disciples.”

Davis says the the ride is alsodesigned to be a witness to thechildren the bikers meet as theyvisit BCH locations.

“I know the boys and girls in BCH’s care hear that NorthCarolina Baptists love them andthey see a slice of that when theyvisit and present the BCH min-istry in our churches. The ride isan opportunity for them to seeanother side of North CarolinaBaptists and the relationship wehave with Christ.”

Riders will gather Wednesdayevening, May 4, at the NorthCarolina Baptist Assembly at Fort

Caswell and head west from there. Stops includeBCH’s Cameron Boys Camp in Moore Countyon Thursday, Mills Home on Friday, and finallyBroyhill Home in Clyde on Saturday, May 7 –the day of Broyhill Home’s Cookin’ for the KidsBarbecue Festival led by Ninevah Baptist Churchin Waynesville.

The full itinerary for the ride, as well as registration and fund-raising information, may befound at www.bchnc.org/ridetoclyde. Riders mayalso contact BSC’s Cynthia King at 1-800-395-5102 or via email at cking@ncbaptist.org.

[ RIDE TO CLYDE 2016 }

Baptist leaders’passion producesnew charity ride________________________________________________ ___By J. Blake Ragsdale, Managing Editor

____________________________________________________________________

4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3 7.

Above, motorcyclists Rit Varriale, Pastor of Elizabeth Baptist Church in Shelby, and Brian Davis, Associate Executive Director-Treasurer for the Baptist State Convention of NC (BSC), are spearheading the “Ride to Clyde” charity ride to benefit BCH. Below left, participating bikers conduct a preliminary visit of Mills Home. Left to right are: Larry Phillips,

BSC Immigration Strategist; Duane Kuykendall, Associational Missionary for Catawba Valley; Varriale; Davis; Michael C.Blackwell, BCH President/CEO; and John Jones, BSC Information Technology Team Leader.

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Pepperoni Sticks, Cheese Nips, Pretzels, etc.)__ Health Snacks (Dried

Fruit, Nuts, Raisins, Cranraisins, Trail Mix)

__ Individual Cookie Packs__ Jello__ PopTarts__ Rice__ Instant Potatoes (scalloped, au gratin, mashed, julienne)__ Muffin Mixes__ Bisquick Mix__ Kidney Beans__ Baked Beans__ Pickle Relish__ Cranberry Sauce__ Mac & Cheese__ Corn Meal__ Jiffy Mixes, Corn Muffin Mix__ Potatoes__ Hush Puppy Mix__ Peanut Butter__ Jelly, Jams, Preserves (Strawberry is their favorite)__ Pizza & Pizza Dough Mix__ Saltine Crackers, Ritz

Crackers, Graham Crackers__ Sauces (A-1, Steak, BBQ, Texas Pete, Cheese, Worcestershire, Soy, Teriyaki, Sweet & Sour)__ Spices and Seasonings

(including Salt & Pepper)__ Dishwashing detergents__ Laundry pre-treating products (i.e. Shout, Spray and Wash)__ Brooms, Mops, Scrub

Brushes, Dust Pans__ Foil and Plastic Wrap__ SOS Pads__ Fabric Softener __ Dryer Sheets__ Sanitary Pads & Tampons__ Hand Lotion__ Shampoo__ Body Wash__ Soap__ Hand Sanitizer

OTHER NEEDED ITEMS:__ Brownie & Cookie Mix__ Canned Vegetables__ Individual Chef Boyardee cups__ Clif brand nutrition bars__ Hot Dog Chili__ Coffee (Regular & Decaf)__ Coffee Creamer__ Sweetened Condensed Milk__ Evaporated Milk__ Dehydrated Food (powdered milk & eggs, dehydrated meals)

__ Flavorings (Vanilla, etc.)__ French Fried Onions

__ Honey__ Ketchup__ Mustard__ Oatmeal__ Salsa__ Parmesan Cheese__ Puddings, Pudding Cups__ Vinegar__ Paper Products (Cups, Plates, Bowls, Plastic Ware, Dixie Cups)

__ Copy/Printer Paper __ Trash Bags (large & small)__ Zip-Loc bags (Sandwich,

Snack, Quart & Gallon Sizes)__ Band Aids__ Rubbing Alcohol/Peroxide__ Anti-bacterial ointment__ Razors__ Shaving Cream/Shaving Gel__ Dental Floss__ Hair brushes__ Deodorant__ Conditioner__ Tooth Paste__ Tooth Brushes__ Diapers (all sizes)__ Baby Wipes__ Bug Repellent

__ Wasp/Hornet Spray__ Sunblock 30+__ Batteries (AA , AAA and D)__ Disposable Gloves (Latex & Non-Latex)

Gift Cards are appreciatedto buy perishables anditems not received. (Wal-mart, Sams Clubs, Food Lion,Lowes, Ingles, Piggly Wiggly,etc.)

We can use all size cans.Some locations prefer #10family-size cans.

Please check for expireddates on food. Help our vol-unteer truck drivers by pack-ing your donations in small,sturdy boxes.

Questions? Help? ContactAlan Williams at 1-800-476-3669 ext. 1277 or email himat awilliams@bchfamily.org.

[ FOOD ROUNDUP }

Needs list______________________________________

BCH’s population rose 24%from 2013 to 2015. With

a new cottage for girls opening soon, the need for the Food Roundup is greater than ever. Please give items from the needs list to help collect a minimum of $350,000 in non-perishable food, gift cards and other items. Yoursupport helps provide 700,000 meals and snacks.

VIDEO: HouseparentsSee Hunger FirsthandAdam & Sian Saunders share theneeds they see daily. Download atwww.bchnc.org/food16a

April 2016

____________________________________________________________________

.8 4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3 Download ads, slides and resources at www.bchfamily.org/foodroundup

Statewide collection points ready for food donations_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Note: Please call thelocation before makingyour delivery. Schedulesvary at each location. _________________________

Alexander AssociationLari Stucky828-632-6546Anson AssociationKim Glenn704-694-2790Ashe AssociationTrish Church336-846-5631Atlantic AssociationRachel Dupree252-447-4593Avery AssociationGarland Huneycut828-733-6674Beulah AssociationTeresa Wilkins919-730-0226Bladen AssociationConnie Holland910-862-3496Blue Ridge AssociationSharon Blanton 828-559-0685Brier Creek AssociationSherry Mesimer336-468-8000Brunswick AssociationMichael Clemmons910-754-7979

Brushy Mountain Assoc.Lois Woodie336-838-4407Buncombe AssociationNancy Owen828-252-1864Burnt Swamp Assoc.Odum Home - Kathy Locklear910-521-3433/910-318-3981Cabarrus AssociationMarvin Tyson704-786-9171Caldwell AssociationAssociation GarageDarlene Townsend828-758-4081Carolina AssociationPaula James828-693-4274Catawba River Assoc.Marlene Houk828-437-0137Catawba Valley Assoc.Woodlawn BCRev. Jerry Anderson828-464-6921Cheoah AssociationNew Hope BC, RobbinsvilleGerald & Nellie Phillips828-479-8279Chowan AssociationNancy Porter / Annie Leslie252-426-9621

Columbus Association1. Theresa Powell910-642-21552. Chadbourn BC, Bus GarageTheresa Powell910-654-3992Cullom AssociationMary White 252-257-4513Dan Valley AssociationRev. Walter Daves 336-342-2207Dock AssociationAl Gore910-640-0801Eastern Association1. Donna Landes/Sandra Winstead910-293-70772. Grove Park BC910-592-3937Elkin AssociationLisa Green336-835-8433Flat River AssociationBecky Curran919-693-2300French Broad AssociationDru Moore828-689-2845Graham AssociationNew Hope BC, RobbinsvilleGerald & Nellie Philips828-479-8279

Greater Cleveland Assoc.Charles Reed704-482-3472, ext. 106Greater Gaston Assoc.WarehouseThane Kendall704-867-7257Green River AssociationTeresa Sams828-286-9278Haywood AssociationBroyhill Home - Linda Morgan828-627-9254Johnston AssociationJohnston Comm. CollegeCarolyn Tharrington 919-934-3749Liberty AssociationMills Home - Alan Williams336-474-1277Little River Association1. Baptist Grove BC919-552-85922. Gourd Springs BC910-436-02763. Lillington BC910-893-91514. Westfield BC910-892-2216Macon AssociationCindy Bohner828-524-3215Metrolina AssociationHannah Rehm704-375-1197

Mitchell AssociationJudy Greer828-765-9412Montgomery AssociationHal Bilbo910-572-2451Mount Zion AssociationSandy King 336-226-0249Neuse AssociationKennedy Home –Al Little/Brian Baltzell252-527-4417New River AssociationRita Romine910-347-3146New South River Assoc.Robert Ivey/ReginaHammonds910-485-8791North Roanoke Assoc.Debbie Williams252-443-3883Pee Dee AssociationLanell Moree/Janie Frye910-895-5282Piedmont AssociationRebecca Newlin336-275-7651Pilot Mountain Assoc.PMBA Resource CenterKaren Taylor336-830-8189Polk AssociationHubert Street828-894-3787

Raleigh AssociationIris Woodard919-231-3995Randolph AssociationDrema Hill/Steve Sells336-625-4175Robeson Association1. Alan Taylor910-738-81862. Odum Home -Kathy Locklear910-521-3433/910-318-3981Rocky Face AssociationTony Daniels 828-850-2267/828-632-4726Rowan AssociationCindy Key704-637-3407Sandhills AssociationTom Lamkin910-947-2238Sandy Creek AssociationNancy Evans919-776-9423Sandy Run AssociationLoretta Winters828-245-2613South Fork AssociationFaith Ingle704-735-1642South Mountain Assoc.Don Willis704-462-4472

South Roanoke Assoc.1. Assoc. OfficeLinda Franks252-756-43322. To Be DeterminedMax Liles252-243-7961South Yadkin AssociationFairview BC - Paul Hill704-872-4246Stanly AssociationJudy Hartsell/Libby Hartsell704-982-4891Stone MountainJulius Blevins336-696-4210Stony Fork AssociationRoy Grider828-295-3410Surry AssociationHeather Bedsaul336-789-5701Tar River AssociationPauline Muller919-496-7172Tennessee River Assoc.FBC, Bryson City Judy Hensley828-488-2679Three Forks AssociationHarold Bennett828-264-4482Transylvania AssociationJan Miller828-877-3203

Truett AssociationKaren Twiss828-837-5401Tuckaseigee AssociationGracella Morris828-586-6011Union AssociationJean Rollins704-283-8383United Association(Drop at Metrolina Assoc.)Hannah Rehm704-375-1197West Chowan Assoc.Britton Ministries – Joann Mizelle252-332-3235Wilmington Association1. Theresa Bradley910-799-11602. Scotts Hill BC910-686-98853. Northside BC910-791-6053Yadkin AssociationBrenda Garner/Dennis Shaw336-679-8731Yancey AssociationCathy Silvers828-682-2388Yates AssociationTeresa Dotson/Michael Bond919-489-3396

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/millshomealumni

Two delightful people I met atHomecoming 2015 were Debra

(Debbie) and Vicki Jones-Huffin. Theycame to Mills Home (MH) fromHertford in 1962 with siblings Alfred,Donnie and Richard. Debra graduatedin 1969. She is a truck driver for Eppsand currently lives at: 3670 US Hwy 601 North, Mocksville, NC 27028.Friends can contact her at 336-403-6540.

Vicki Jones-Huffin lives at 144 PineSt., Teachey, NC 28464. She and herhusband James have two children andfour grandchildren. She is a “ShiftLeader” for the Murphy Family Ven-ture, Inc. She is often found in com-munication with alumni on Facebookand can also be contacted by emailingjonesvickilynn@yahoo.com or calling910-382-8429.

Debbie and Vicki both seemed toreally enjoy Homecoming this year.Sitting behind them in church, I wasable to chat with them before andafter the morning worship service.One of them commented to me:“Everyone has been so nice and wehave been able to see people that wehave not seen in many years.”

Ken Wallin still resides at: 8706Stoneface Rd., Charlotte, NC 28214.He came to MH with siblings Jerry,Judy and Nancy in 1964 and he grad-uated in 1968. He is the proud fatherof two – a son and a daughter. Itseemed very easy for Ken to admitthat his favorite housemother at wasThelma Frye Robertson (Culler Cot-tage). “She was the first person to be-lieve in me and set expectations forme,” he remembers. Ken also hadpraise for several other campus work-ers, “Mr. Brookshire (social worker)was the kindest and most gentle per-son I have ever met. He made me feelcared about. Bill Sisk was the model ofa strong father figure. Frank Bailey wasthe funniest person and had the bestwit. He also clearly loved Mills Homeand was an encourager. Finally, W.R.Wagoner was a man who showed mehow to walk, act and look like an ex-ecutive. I have always wanted to bewhat he modeled. Roger Williamsshowed me a love of God. Ken Little

showed me I could sing and I lovedbeing in the Tour Choir. Sam Rapershowed me that a job done well is agood job.”

Ken further comments: “Since leav-ing Mills Home, I have been an Air-borne Infantry officer in the Army andhad several other jobs in uniform. Ihave been a business owner, a man-agement consultant and now I am acollege professor in business and man-agement. I have a BA, MA and almosta PhD. I have written four books andI am working on the 5th.”

Ken also writes great western nov-els. Contact him for copies of hisMacKensie series at Ken.Wallin@gmail.com or call 980-236-7924

It has been some time since I haveheard anything from or about HelenBell Steele. Her update sheet showsher to still reside at: 114 BroomdaleDr., Johnson City, TN 37601. Shecame to MH in 1927 and she gradu-ated in 1935. At MH, she was activein many of the church and schoolfunctions. She learned responsibilityby having “duty” at the MilesDurham Nursery, the sewing room,laundry room, and doing housekeep-ing and kitchen duties in various cot-tages around campus. Her time atMH was during the term of GeneralSuperintendent Dr. Martin LutherKesler who she regarded as a verywonderful person. She feels his strongChristian character, interest in chil-dren, and skill in running the “or-phanage” exceptionally well were bigreasons she and the other children re-spected and loved him so much. Onecan only imagine how sad the campuswas when he was killed in a train/caraccident.

Helen was married to the lateJames Dennis Steele and they hadthree children whose progeny includeseight grandchildren and 12 greatgrandchildren. When Helen recalls thevarious Homecomings she has at-tended, she feels being with her class-mates and having lunch on campuswere the best parts of the weekend.

Helen says: “I am proud to tell peo-ple that I was reared at Mills Home. Ireceived an exceptional education andwas well cared for.”

Many thanks to Virginia WilliamsNeeley for helping us stay up to datewith alumni though her most recentnews was sad. She reported the deathof Edna Davis – a graduate of the early1950s. Edna was living in New Yorkat the time of her death on June 29last year. She and her sister Judy cameto MH in the 1940s and Edna gradu-ated in the early ‘50s. Judy, who diedseveral years ago, graduated around1954. Both girls were active in theMills Home Baptist Church and themany, many campus activities.

Opal Ainsworth sent a bit more in-formation on her mother Bertha Eliz-abeth Willis Wells whose death Imentioned last month. Bertha was liv-ing in the Chadwick Nursing Homein Jackson, MS at the time of herdeath on Dec. 21, 2015. She hadspent a great portion of her life inVicksburg and had attended GoodrunBaptist Church for many years. She was preceded in death by her sonMike Wigley and grandson TerryAinsworth. Her survivors includeOpal Ainsworth of Vicksburg, threegrandchildren and six great grandchil-dren. She was laid to rest on Dec. 26in the Greenlawn Gardens Cemeteryin Vicksburg, MS.

Thanks to Wallace Maultsby fornotifying me that Jacqueline (Jackie)Byrd Haynes died on Jan. 15, 2015.Jackie came to MH in 1937 with sib-lings Mary Lou, Joe, Gilbert, and Blake(Lightning) in 1937. She graduated inthe famous class of 1944. She marriedJames Haynes and had quite a fewchildren. More on Jackie next month.

The Mills Home Alumni Councilmet on February 28 in the fellowshiphall of the Mills Home BaptistChurch. It was a very productivemeeting with the emphasis being onplans for Homecoming.

Cecilia Townsend Wilkerson is thechairman of the Homecoming com-mittee and she is very enthusiasticabout what she views as a grand op-portunity. Homecoming has becomevery dear to her heart and she hasplunged “with gusto” into planningfor this year. Early plans indicate theemphasis will be on the music of the1970s, and she already has some en-

tertainment lined up for Saturdayevening. It was decided that Home-coming will again begin on Fridayevening as it has been done for severalyears now. She has engaged the culi-nary talents of the very popular Dannyand Jane Brown – although specificdetails are “still in the works.” It ap-pears to me that efforts are beingmade to preserve some “Homecom-ing traditions” while inserting enoughchange to keep things interesting. Youcan expect much more specific detailsin alumni council president EstieCuller’s Homecoming letter whichusually comes out in June.

The Alumni Association’s first vice-president Kaye Trantham Mills is alsoin the middle of planning the Home-coming worship service. She has con-tacted a special speaker that she hopesto engage and is working on music forthe day. She will share the specificslater.

The Alumni Council’s membershipcommittee is “Out to Get You!” Yes,this year we are putting tremendousemphasis on “increasing membershipin the Alumni Association.” Everyalumnus/na and worker from MillsHome is important to us, and we re-ally want you to join. Our Member-ship Committee headed by SharonDeHart Stiles wants you to know wenot only want you but we really needyou as a member of the Alumni Asso-ciation. In June when you receive theHomecoming promotion letter, youwill see that we have put a plan in ac-tion. Yes, we’re “out to get you” toclaim the benefits of being a memberof this outstanding organization.

At Homecoming 2014, the AlumniAssociation voted to increase themembership dues from $10.00 to$15.00. Most folks understand that itdoes take money to run an organiza-tion and in our case produce a veryimportant event – Homecoming inAugust! Next month’s column willshare some of the marvelous things

that are done with thedues.

Lib Johnson was a resident of MillsHome from 1946 to 1957. Johnsonbegan writing the Mills Home alumnicolumn in 1992.

[ MILLS HOME ALUMNI COLUMN }

2016 Homecoming to have a 70s vibe –Alum’s western novels recommended reading_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By Lib Smathers Johnson (336) 299-7412 libsjohnson@triad.rr.com

____________________________________________________________________

4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3 9.

BCH has immediate openings. Apply online at www.bchcareers.org

________________________________Residents Showcase Talents

Broyhill Home recently hosted the annual talentshow that involves residents from Baptist Chil-dren’s Homes’ (BCH) locations in Western NorthCarolina. The event is an opportunity to encour-age residents to showcase their unique talentsand affirm their creativity. Residents sing, playmusical instruments, perform skits, bake tastytreats, and create colorful crafts. Above, Rob, aresident of Alverta Bolick Home in Asheville, takesa moment to pose with Broyhill Home housepar-ent Betty Porter.________________________________Volunteers Donate Services

Randal Gerringer of Trinity Tree Service in Mebanehas donated his time and labor to trim and re-move damaged and fallen trees at BCH’s MillsHome in Thomasville and Kennedy Home in Kin-ston. Gerringer became involved through long-time BCH friend James Fulk who is also lendinghis expertise to the ministry. Fulk is helping up-grade BCH’s electrical systems making it possibleto provide generator back up for specific buildingsin case of power outages.________________________________Developmental Disabilities Ministry

The women and men living at BCH’s Lanier andMercer Homes in Sanford spent their Valentine’s

Day outreaching to residents and patients at theneighboring Westfield Rehabilitation and HealthCenter. They presented Valentine cards theycrafted. Lanier and Mercer Homes are a part ofBCH’s Developmental Disabilities Ministry. Learnmore at www.hereismyhome.org.________________________________Camp Duncan

In January, the girls living at Camp Duncan andtheir chiefs, the campers’ care givers, canoedBadin Lake in Central North Carolina. Chief Emily(left) captured the above “selfie” of her and thegroup. Camp Duncan and Cameron Boys Campare currently hiring chiefs. Learn more andapply at www.campcareers.org.________________________________Campers on Mission

Mills Home children and staff are grateful to Boband Nancy Maple and all volunteers withCampers on Mission who spent five months tack-ling work projects at Craver Cottage. The childrencreated a colorful “thank you” card displayingtheir thumbprints.________________________________Church Support

Vernell Holt, left, and her daughter Laura Powell,right, present BCH’s Wyatt Stewart with $2,100from Albion Baptist Church in Mt. Airy. Thechurch are longtime friends of the BCH ministry.

________________________________Fancy Finds Prepares to Open

RAs, GAs and the leaders from Mt. Tabor BaptistChurch in Cherryville volunteered at Mills Home’sSadler Building on March 12. They assisted withclean up projects to prepare for Fancy Finds’ first

Saturday sales day this June. BCH trustee JayWestmoreland, above, recently donated light fix-tures to Fancy Finds. Fancy Finds creatively repur-poses and sells donated items using those fundsto strengthen BCH’s many programs and min-istries. You can help by donating and volun-teering! Give your gently-used furniture andhome decor items to Fancy Finds’ “SpringCleaning” Furniture Drive. The drive will be atMills Home’s Sadler Building at 500 Biggs Av-enue in Thomasville on Saturday, April 2. Weare also looking for volunteers to help paintthe building. And the opening of Fancy Finds’resale shop at the same location is Saturday,June 18. More at www.fancyfinds.org or call director Renee Gregory at 704-909-8223.________________________________Guatemala Orphanage

Good Shepherd Children’s Home, BCH’s affiliateorphanage in Xela, Guatemala, welcomed sevensiblings into care in early March. The boys andgirls, ranging from two to 12 years old, were mal-nourished and had been sleeping on the ground.Good Shepherd is currently serving nearly 20 chil-dren. Please pray for the children served by GoodShepherd Ministries. Consider sponsoring achild. Learn more at www.orphanreach.org.

[ AROUND THE STATE }

Every day at churches and BCH facilities “around the state,” residents, staff members and North Carolina Baptists are mak-

ing news. In Charity & Children and through BCH's social media posts, friendscan connect daily, weekly and monthly to learn about all of BCH's happenings.______________________________________________________________________________________

Stay connected online at www.bchfamily.org and on Facebook, Twitter,YouTube, and Vimeo. Also follow NCBAM (www.ncbam.org) and BCH'sDevelopmental Disabilities Ministry (www.hereismyhome.org).

____________________________________________________________________

.10 4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3

Get Involvedwww.bchfamily.org/getinvolved

You can meet the daily needs ofBCH’s boys and girls by sharingyour time, talents and resources.You can help in these ways:___________________________________

Food Roundup: This is a great opportunity for churches, businessesand organizations to help provide thefood needs of the boys and girls incare. Call 336-474-1277 or visitwww.bchfoodroundup.org

Friends of Children Workdays:The perfect one-day missions out-reach. Projects for all ages! StatewideBCH workdays available in May andSeptember. See 2015 dates on pg. 6Call 336-474-1209.

Mile of Pennies: Help by collecting a “Mile of Pennies.” When caring forhundreds of children, it takes every-one working together – one pennyadded to another penny and then an-other penny. Continue to multiplythe pennies and just imagine how faryou can go in making a real differ-ence! Call 336-474-1209.

Gently-Used Furniture Donationsand Volunteer Opportunities:Fancy Finds takes your gently-usedfurniture and home decor items andcreatively repurposes them to help all of BCH’s ministries. Fancy Findsneeds items as well as volunteers.Learn more --www.fancyfinds.orgor call 704-909-8223.

Recycle Projects: Collect emptyprinter cartridges (laser, inkjet andfax cartridges). Deliver items to anyBCH facility or use prepaid shippinglabels to send items to recycler. Mil-lions of cartridges are thrown awayeach year. Begin collecting and helpthis year-round program earn moneyfor children. You can recycle cellphones, too. Call 336-474-1209.

Bike for Change: Bike for Change is a fun and dynamic way for childrento help "change" the lives of children.By pedaling bicycles, children raisesupport and awareness for BCH’sboys and girls. It is a great serviceproject for schools, churches, andother children’s groups. It alsoteaches children the importance ofparticipating in missions outreach. Visit www.bikeforchange.org forresources. Learn more by contact-ing bikeforchange@bchfamily.org

Sharing Hope...Changing LivesCapital Campaign: The campaign isabout securing BCH’s future so thatchildren and families who come intocare at the ministry’s 19 statewide lo-cations can count on having the safehome and care they need. ContactBrenda Gray at 336-689-4442. Visitwww.bchfamily.org/campaign

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/kennedyhomealumni

What in the world is retire-ment? I have officially re-

tired three times and I still work alittle every day.

I love keeping busy. I was look-ing over Charity & Children andnoticed the little note by my pic-ture at the end of my article. Itstates: John Thompson was thechoir director at Kennedy Homefrom 1972-1977. Today, he enjoys avery active retirement.

Ha! I’m busy all the time andlove all that I do. Some of you maynot know that Becky and I live inJacksonville now. I felt the Lordleading me to come here to playthe piano in the church where myson Johnny is part-time minister ofmusic. Becky is the church organ-ist. He also runs two funeral homesplus directs the Jacksonville BarberShop Men’s Choir.

It is great working under his di-rection, but it sure feels odd. Usu-ally, I have been the one standingand waving my arms in the air.

Now the church has asked me toserve as Minister of Senior Adults,too. I love it! We are planning atrip to Myrtle Beach. We havemonthly luncheon meetings with anew theme every month, and weeven wear the same color to gowith the theme. It’s great fun!

Always remember to keep serv-ing the Lord no matter how oldHe allows you to get – I am 72 andBecky is 71.

Donna Duty, our most recentcollege graduate, sent me an articleto share. As you can tell, she mailedit to me for use in February orlater, so here goes: “December 12was a big day for me. As many ofyou know, I graduated from WakeTech Community College inRaleigh receiving my Associate ofArts Degree. I’ve worked towardsthis degree for many years whileraising my children and also work-ing full-time. So, it’s been a goal ofmine for a while. I did it for myselfand also did it for my Aunt Marywho died in 2000. She alwayswanted me to get a college educa-

tion. Many staff at Kennedy Homealso encouraged me to go to col-lege and I’m glad they did! Iturned 60 years young in Octoberand am now looking forward to re-tiring in about five or six years.

“So many of you are probablywondering what I will do with mydegree? I've had a desire for manyyears to become a counselor. Re-cently, I've been trying to figureout just what type of counseling Iwant to do – I just want to helppeople with life's hurts, habits andhangups.

“Many of us that were in care atKennedy Home came to live therebecause one or both of our parentswere alcoholics or drug addicts. Inmy case, both of my parents wereheavy drinkers and were not able tocare for me due to their addiction.I lived in several foster homes be-fore I finally came to live atKennedy Home.

“As I approach my retirementyears, I want to continue to be use-ful for God, help people and makea difference! God has put it on myheart recently to pursue being asubstance abuse counselor. I be-lieve God can use me in a great waybecause of having alcoholic par-ents, and the emotional suffering Iexperienced due to their addic-tions. God has and continues toheal me as an “adult child of alco-holics” – there is such a groupcalled ACOA. I just want to coun-sel those who are struggling in thesame ways as I have.

“So, I am currently pursuing thistype of counseling and the addi-tional education it will take to be aCertified Substance Abuse Coun-selor. Every day I am thankful forKennedy Home and the shelter itwas for me when I first came to livethere is 1967. I felt so lost andalone at that time, but God’s handof protection was on me then andhas continued to be on me all mylife. Now, it is time for me to helpothers as I have been helped.

“Please pray for and with me asI pursue this new chapter in mylife. I love my Kennedy Home fam-ily!” – Donna Weeks Duty, ‘67-‘74

Donna, thank you so much foryour letter. It really means a lot tome and I’m sure it will to all whoread it.

You can email Donna at: don-naduty!@gmail.com Or call her at:919-244-0920

Now alumni,see how easy it isto write a lettersharing what ishappening inyour life. I’ll useyour letter in my next column, so don’t hesitate.You might evenwant to write memore than onetime. I will reallyappreciate it.

A note from Larry Gilliam:“Here is some information onCoach Quill Abritton. I just foundout that he is at home restricted tobed and having therapy. If you geta chance, drop him a get-well cardto cheer him up. Better yet, dropby to see him. Here is the informa-tion you need: Mr. Quill Abritton,669 3rd. Street, Ayden, NC28513”

Thanks for this informationLarry. Please keep us posted onhow he is doing. You can reachLarry at: kcwselmo@aol.com

Here’s another note from AlumJerry Dunn: “I tried to call you butit wouldn’t go through. I wantedto say I lived at Kennedy Homefrom 1975-1977 in Bryant Cot-tage with Mr. and Mrs. Waters. I re-member camping with you Mr.Thompson and with KeithWilliams. It has been a long timesince then. You also taught mepiano lessons at your house oncampus. You are a good man andhave made an impact on my lifeand so many more people – a truegift from God. Bless you and youfamily.”

Jerry, thank you for writingthese kind words. I really did enjoytaking you camping and teachingyou piano. Do you still play thepiano? I hope so. Where do you

live now? Email me at jthomp-son117@ec.rr.com and let me knowall about you. I like to keep up withall my youngins. Come see me ifyou are ever in Jacksonville!

News about the Alumni BeachRetreat: I just gota note from MaryFeige letting meknow that she iscoming to theBeach Retreat.She has also in-vited one of herformer housepar-ents, Teresa God-win. “Please tellMiss Becky I saidhello and I loveyou both andcan’t wait to see

you.” There are a good many signed

up to come down to BCH’s BeachCottage. I’m looking forward tobeing there with you. I will try tocook some good food for you.Please remember to bring somehomemade desserts to share andalso some 2-litre soft drinks. Bringsome warm clothes, too. I can’t tellyou the cost until we get there tosee how many will attend. It won’tbe hardly anything. Don’t worry.

The Alumni Council met andwill be letting everyone knowabout Homecoming 2016 soon.The biggest thing to remember isthat we will have Homecoming onJune 4 and 5 instead of July. Pleaseremember this date.

I want you to help fill the choirloft. Some of you have becomeprofessional singers or instrumen-talists. Let me know who you areand you can perform.

You’ve read this month’s col-umn. Now it’s time to send mesome information. Write me a let-ter or email. I’ll mention you in thenext Charity & Children. Keep in

touch. Thanks!Love – JT

John Thompson was the choir director at Kennedy Home from1972-1977. Today, he enjoys a veryactive retirement.

[ KENNEDY HOME ALUMNI COLUMN }

Call for stories, alumni information and news –Mark calendars with new Homecoming dates_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By John Thompson, 2324 Country Club Road, Jacksonville, NC 28546 (252)671-3515 jthompson117@ec.rr.com

____________________________________________________________________

4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3 11.

REMEMBER NEW DATES:

Kennedy HomeHomecoming

June 4 & 5_________________________

STILL TIME:

Beach RetreatMay 20-22

More Homeword at www.bchfamily.org/charityandchildren____________________________________________________________________

.12 4/16 – Charity & Children – 129/3

Calling All State Employees!Choose BCH as your charity in theState Employees Combined Campaign.SECC code is 3641. Encourage others toas well and better the lives of childrenand families in North Carolina.

We participate in these areas:C F C # 3 3 2 4 1

Research Triangle Area CFCCape Fear Area CFCCamp Lejeune/OnslowCounty/New River CFCSoutheastern North Carolina (includes Fort Bragg)

Greater North Carolina CFCCherry Point CFCRowan/Iredell County CFCCFC Central CarolinasCFC of Western NC

South Hampton Roads CFC(Camden, Chowan, Currituck,Dare, Gates, Hertford,Pasquotank, and PerquimansCounties and Albemarle andElizabeth City)

Can we help?BCH offers services for children and families. Needhelp, call 1-800-476-3669.

1.Western Area Family Services Linda Morgan, Lead Dir. 828-627-9254

2.Central Area Family Services Regina Keener, Dir. 336-474-1200

3.Eastern Area Family Services Brian Baltzell, Dir., 252-522-0811

3.Odum Home Kathy Locklear, Res. Campus Mgr.910-521-3433

4.Cameron Boys Camp Stephen Ashton, Dir. 910-245-4034

5.Camp Duncan for Girls Paul Daley, Dir. 910-944-3077

6.Oak Ranch/Family CareLynn Garner, Dir. 336-474-1240

7.Weekday EducationLinda Russo, Dir., 336-474-1201

8.Dev. Disabilities Ministry Peggy Pennington, Dir. 336-474-1261

9.NC Baptist Aging MinistrySandy Gregory, Dir. 336-474-1221

10.Fancy FindsRenee Gregory, Dir.704-909-8223

11.Good Shepherd MinistriesGuatemala Orphanage & ClinicKeith Henry, BCH COO336-474-1215

Amie and Mark’s date night was a great excuse for Kathy and me to spend time

with granddaughter Emmalie. I felt reasonablysure when Amie called to ask if we were availableto babysit that I could volunteer both of us with-out hesitation. So when Saturday came around,we headed to Winston-Salem to begin our owndate night with Em.

The evening was all planned with child-friendly stuff, but on the spur of the moment, I asked Kathy if shewould like to swing by her favoritefurniture consignment storewhile we were in town. I don’task if I’m not already pointingthe car in that direction – Kathyis always ready to stroll through that shop. It proved to be a different kind of stroll witheighteen-month Emmalie in tow.

After fiddling with the car seat much longerthan my daughter has to, I lifted our little one from the car; we headed to the door, andEmmalie began greeting the crowds. She smiledand waved to one and all, and by the time wemade it to the first row of furnishings, she knewshe owned the place.

Letting go of my hand, Emmalie was off a fewyards away – little ones move fast! She short-cut-ted under tables that I had to walkaround, and I kept track of her by following her happy laughter. I caught up to her at a big floorlength mirror. She recognized herself and grinned as the otherEm waved back at her, mimickingher every move. Kathy and I chuckled.

Suddenly, Em ducked behind the mirror, peeking to find the little girl on the other side.When she looked back at us, her smile was goneand she looked puzzled. There was no other littleone back there. She peered into the mirror again,

waved tentatively at her reflection,checked the backonce more; disen-chanted, she movedon. But I stood gazinginto the mirror.

The reflection I now saw was Emmalie’s mom,

my daughter Amie. Emmalie is somuch like Amie was: the same petite

frame, take-charge kind of confidence, thepermanent smile and laughing voice, and thesame manner of capturing my attention and heartin just one motion. I looked at the back of mygranddaughter toddling off and slipped thirtyyears back in time imagining my daughter oncemore. How lovely to look at one and catch thereflection of another.

There are several mirrors in our home. Theway they reflect light and open up a space has always been something we employed to make the most of our modest homes. They gave ourdaughters a sense of security, too, in the way theymade it possible to look around corners and seethe big picture of the rooms when they arrived

home before their parents. Our children used mirrors to see

friendly faces, practice waves, andplay peep-eye. Our teenagers usedmirrors to audition new outfits andhair styles, to prepare to face the

world. We use mirrors to see again a favoriteview, to elongate a narrow room, to bounce light into a dark corner.

I haven’t found the time to finish hanging onelast mirror in the front room of our new home,and when Emmalie visits and I miss her little

footstepson the wood

floors, I knowshe is at the front door where a round mirrorrests against a wall. She places her hands on her knees and bends to see her face appear. Shepredictably moves to steal a peek around theback of the mirror, looking for her reflection. In-variably, when she pops back to the front of themirror, it’s Amie I steal a peek of looking back at me with that same big smile, crinkly eyes, andjoyful look that makes my world a brighter place.

In Ephesians, Paul reminds us that we put on a new self after accepting Christ’s gift of salva-tion. It is a self that reflects the very likeness ofGod with His righteousness and holiness. I desiremy actions and my words to imitate Jesus. I hopeto reflect my savior in the mirror of my life sothat others see the good in me and praise the Father in heaven. I wish for God to smile becauseHe catches a small glimpse of His Son in some-thing I do for His glory.

We are to be mirrors reflecting the Jesus in us to a world who needs to know Him. We whotrust Him for our salvation are called by Hisname; we should strive to project that image.

It will look odd for a while, but I think I willhang that mirror at an Emmalie height. That

smile’s reflection is something notto be missed!Edminson is editor of Charity & Children and writes“Homeword” to inspire and encourage families. He isavailable for preaching and speaking engagements. Email him at wjedminson@bchfamily. org or call 1-800-476-3669, ext. 1217 to schedule a date.

[ H O M E W O R D }

What is reflected in the mirror of your life?_____________________________________________________________________________________

By Jim Edminson, Editor

M O R E MORE inspiration in

every issue.