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Children's Home Alumni Gather for Annual Reunion
- 1. CHILDREN’S HOME LIFE article continued on page 3 Edition #101 SEPTEMBER 2014 Publication of Free Will Baptist Children’s Home, Inc. www.fwbchildrenshome.org It was a beautiful day, with more than 175 in attendance for the 68th annual alumni homecoming that was held on campus July 13, 2014. Registration began at 9:00 a.m. The crowd stopped by the registration table and then took their seats, awaiting the start of another “coming home” celebration. The service began with a welcome to The Home by Cynthia Batten from the Children’s Home Development Office, followed by congregational singing and remarks by the Alumni President, Yvonne Rouse Kelly (1955–1969). The recognition of alumni, staff and former staff, and special guests were done as members of former concert choirs gathered up front to sing together. This is always a high light of the homecoming celebration. The memorial service this year was presented by Cathy Hines Campbell. She had seven alums who had passed. She used a PowerPoint presentation and then remarked on each person. 68th Annual Alumni Homecoming Celebrated
- 2. 2 And he said, the things which are impossible with men are possible with God (Luke 18:27). I am reminded of many children who find themselves alone, afraid, and hurting. The Children’s Home is often called upon to minister to these children who are faced with many challenges that they see as impossible to overcome. I believe the Children’s Home embraces the art of the possible. We want to help children feel safe and secure. As God’s hands and feet in this world, our staff works together to meet their physical and emotional needs. Sometimes people question whether we can really make a difference with these needy children. I say that with God, we do help make the “impossible” possible. Family is defined in many ways today. The traditional family, which we most associate with, is that of parents, children, siblings, and grandparents. For others, a family is adaptable and made up of any number of people who love and care about each other. Perhaps the children in our care think of us as their home/family through relationships with staff on our campus, a foster parent, or others who join together to provide a network of support. Brought together by a shared commitment to children’s well-being, our staff form a tight-knit bond with one another and particularly with the children. It is a bond that strengthens during the time a child is living with us and we assume the family roles. Naturally, this does not happen without its challenges, but through it all we are there to love and support one another. We have had a busy summer. Our children are now back in school and we are encouraging them to do well and pursue their educational goals. We are excited that our on-campus educational center will open this school year to assist our students. This fall we are scheduled to complete an addition to the Whitley Center gym that will provide more space for recreational activities. Finally, I wish to remember the late Agnes Corbitt, who passed away in April. Mrs. Corbitt was one of our long-time Friends of Children and was faithful in attending events on campus for our “Friends.” I could always count on her for an encouraging word about this ministry. She truly cared about our children and wanted them to know the love of Jesus. I ask that you continue to pray and support us as we move forward from the summer and into the new school year. — In Christian Love, — Gary Lee, President/CEO Greetings from the President Mr. Gary Lee • The Rev. Johnny Sullivan. . . . . . . . . . . . . (Central) • James W. Cahoon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Albemarle) • The Rev. Douglas Skinner. . . . . . . . . . . . . (Central) • Teresa Foster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Western) • Billy Hines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Alumni) • Dr. Ken Benton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Cape Fear) • The Rev. Sherman Dilley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Eastern) • Sherry Askew. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Central) • Wanda Crocker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Cape Fear) • Ila Penny. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Pee Dee) • Dr. Edward Croom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Western) • The Rev. Dr. Thomas Parrish . . . . . . . . . . . (Pee Dee) BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ms. Rachelle Anderson has two children, a boy and a girl, and three grandchildren. She resides in Greenville, NC. She has previously worked with children in many different settings, including institutions and group homes. Her passion for children steered her to the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home seeking employment, where she currently works as a Children’s Service Worker. She has been employed with The Home since September 2013. When I asked Ms. Rachelle why she chose this field of work, she smiled and said her passion is children. She enjoys teaching them responsibility and independence skills by sharing love and building trust. She said she enjoys seeing the accomplishments of each child, great or small. Her desire is to help each child she works with be able to integrate into the community with the right skills to survive. Ms. Rachelle said one of the high points of working at the Children’s Home is seeing all of the many different people from the Original Free Will Baptist Denomination and other churches and businesses come to The Home to share and provide opportunities for the children served here. That, coupled with the love she sees from her co-workers for the children, keeps her smiling. Each day brings new challenges, so Ms. Rachelle says she uses her 45-minute commute to work as time to commune with God and prepare for the task at hand. On May 18, she graduated from Apex School of Theology in Durham with an Associate’s Degree in Theology, and is currently working on her Bachelor’s Degree. When she is not working at the Children’s Home, she visits shut-ins in her community and those in rest homes to tell them about Christ. Ms. Rachelle is enjoying her work with the children she meets at The Home. Employee Spotlight My Passion: Working With Children
- 3. 3 Homecoming Celebration (continued from page 1) The speaker this year was Ms. Paula Lancaster, wife of the late Willie Lancaster (alumni 1955–1966). Paula shared things she learned as being the wife of an alumnus. “Homecoming may always be in July, but talking about it always began early with Willie.” He talked fondly about his “extended family” and was always happy to return home for the celebration, said Paula. After the service, lunch was catered by Parker’s Barbecue and shared in Whitley Center. After lunch, the annual door prize • Marvin Earl Shingleton (alumni 1941–1943) passed away on January 19, 2001 • Benjamin Thomas Shingleton (alumni 1941–1943) passed away on December 17, 2009 • Geneva Elks Boyd (employee) passed away on October 13, 2012 • Nicholas Troy Matson (alumni 2002–2003) passed away on January 1, 2013 Homecoming Memorials • Robert Dorman West (alumni 1934–1944) passed away on January 26, 2014 • Eugene Tyson (alumni 1944–1955) passed away on January 26, 2014 • Michael Faye Heath Murphy (alumni 1953–1964) passed away on February 25, 2014 drawingwasheld.Thefellowshipcontinuedintotheafternoon. As the events wound down, the “die hard” basketball players moved tables and chairs so they could shoot a few hoops. The boys from the Children’s Home formed a team and challenged the alums to a couple of games. This year, the Home Team came out on top. They are already talking about playing again next year. Homecoming was a great day of remembrance and fellowship. Plans are already underway for next year’s event.
- 4. 4 Our Second Annual 5K Run/Walk for the Children was held on May 3, 2014. It was a great event for our community friends, our church friends, our staff, and our children. It was a beautiful morning and registrants were eager to start the race. Everyone gathered in front of Heritage Hall to hear the announcements prior to the start and then made their way over to the start line. The line-up included the runners in front, where several of our residents assembled, followed by the walkers. Small children and people pushing strollers completed the line- up. Some had entered the race as a family, with competitors in several age groups; a great way to spend family time together. At 9:00 a.m. the whistle sounded and they were off. A group of more than 94 participants headed out and around the course. We knew the first competitive runner would be returning in less than 25 minutes. The Event Management Team hurried to transform the starting line into a finish line and the time clock was put into place along with the back- up times. When the first return runners were spotted the spectators moved in closer to the finish line so they could cheer on the racers. The official times were posted on the door of Heritage Hall. The top overall three male and female finishers were: First Place Michael Lee (age 48) . . . . . . . Time: 21:30 Elizabeth Werner (age 40). . . . Time: 23:48 Second Place Jonathan Warren (age 27). . . . Time: 22:49 Kimberly Dickey (age 36). . . . Time: 23:55 Third Place Gary Hoke (age 40). . . . . . . Time: 23:11 Sandra Lucas (age 58). . . . . . Time: 24:26 Additionally, there were medals presented to those who finished in the top three of their age group. After the medals were presented names were drawn from the race registration list for door prizes. These prizes had been donated by local merchants and friends of The Home. There was also a sealed bid auction for a cornhole board game and for hand quilled note cards that had been donated. The event had come to a close and it was a great day of community fellowship with just a hint of competitiveness, enough to gain bragging rights—at least until next year. Next year’s race will be on April 25, 2015. Go ahead and start planning now to include this day on your calendar. You will be able to register online at <runtheeast.com>. Second Annual 5K Run/Walk
- 5. 5 A Way to Remember…Someone Special “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you” Philippians 1:3 Honors for February–August 2014 (Bold print represents person being remembered) A Way to Remember…Someone Special “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you” Philippians 1:3 Memorials for February–August 2014 (Bold print represents person being remembered) Rink Allen Dianne Riley Hannah Boykin Rev. & Mrs. Phillip Boykin Lottie Boykin Dianne Riley Rev. John Brick Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Cherry Lillian N. Carrow Tommy Upton Donnie Cox (current resident) William Farris Brenda Crocker Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Parker Richard Cuddington Family Merdie Best Rev. & Mrs. Terry Ellis Mr. & Mrs. Lyde Ellis Fathers Johnston Union FWB Ch., Smithfield/ Woman’s Auxiliary Vernie, Susan & Tiffany Fountain Dianne Riley Global Hearing—Carol Collins Christopher Delaney Sheffie Godfrey Rev. Gordon Godfrey Faye Watson Harrell (alumna 1947–1954) Charles Harrell Kathleen Hinnant Ruby Taylor Jesus Christ Mr. & Mrs. Dickie Strickland Joanne Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Harrell Rev. & Mrs. Bruce Jones Joyce Bundy Rev. & Mrs. Emmitt Jones Mr. & Mrs. Otis Parker Cegerna Jones Mr. & Mrs. James Brown Marcia Jones Mr. & Mrs. Bob Jones, Jr. Garrett, Grifton, & Grayson Lane Mr. & Mrs. Franklin Lane Gary Lee Dianne Riley Peyton Lee Dianne Riley Reagan Lee Dianne Riley Mothers Johnston Union FWB Ch. Smithfield/ Woman’s Auxiliary Riverside FWB Ch., Princeton/ Woman’s Auxiliary Stoney Creek FWB Ch., Goldsboro/ Men’s Fellowship Jane Parker Hopewell FWB Ch., Smithfield Darla Raper Dianne Riley Residents of Children’s Home Janie Briley Becky Carraway Dianne Riley Mr. & Mrs. Grover Bryan, Jr. Joyce Brown Thomas Casey Gordon Combs Mr. & Mrs. Leland Cox, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Milton Kennedy Teresa Foster Mr. & Mrs. William Gresham Rev. Frank Harrison Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Mozingo Judy Pate Mr. & Mrs. Roy Wetherington George Whitfield Ilene Rose Dianne Riley Laura Rossell Mr. & Mrs. John S. Hall Anne Rouse Mr. & Mrs. Carroll Wood Virginia Skinner Elaine Guthrie Dianne Riley Rev. Kelley Smart Mr. & Mrs. James Morgan Jerry Smith (alumnus 1949–1960) Bobby Bissette Staff of Children’s Home Mr. & Mrs. Phillip Langdon Tim Valentine Jimmy & Faye Starling Brenda Crocker Agnes Sullivan Mr. & Mrs. Charles Bedford Mildred Kirby Sullivan Mr. & Mrs. Edward Sullivan Rev. & Mrs. Harold Swinson Lois Slade Brent Taylor Mr. & Mrs. Charles Bedford Mr. & Mrs. Vick and Brandon Mr. & Mrs. James Wheeler Rick Watson Brenda Crocker First FWB Ch., Wilson/ Grace Class Elaine Guthrie Shannon Van Wey Christopher Delaney Don Alligood Mr. & Mrs. Willard Lamm Mr. & Mrs. Jerry W. Woolard Betty Watson Ard (alumna 1947–1958) Mr. & Mrs. Charles Harrell Magaleen C. Avery Piedmont Community College Effie Barbour Mr. & Mrs. Gary Lee Robert L. Barnes, Jr. Doris Barnes James A. Barwick Lettie Barwick J. D. & Rachel Bass Mr. & Mrs. Charles Alford Lonnie Bass Janice Bass Etta Mae Batchelor Mr. & Mrs. Billy Eason Billy Beamon Peggy Beamon Bowen Family Hershel Bowen, Jr. Clovis Boykin, Jr. Jeanette Boykin Fred Boykin American Legion Post 13/Bingo Howard K. Beacham Mr. & Mrs. Harrison Phelps Walter Beddard Mr. & Mrs. Jack Raines Sarah Blackwell Mr. & Mrs. Woodrow Penny Myra and Walter Bliss Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Napoleone Jay Boswell Trillis Baker Dr. Sam and Frances Bowie Selma & Margaret Briley Clarence and Martha Briley Selma & Margaret Briley Elizabeth Brinchek Mr. & Mrs. Jeffery Brinchek Betty Britt Peggy Biggs Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rawls Rose of Sharon FWB Ch., Robersonville Tiffany Brown Durward Stancil, Inc. Richard Bundy Joyce Bundy Betty Bryant Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Livers David Cahoon First FWB Church, Plymouth Charles Canady, Sr. Mr. & Mrs. Jesse Skinner Quincey Canady Mr. & Mrs. Jesse Skinner Tommie Carraway Martha Carraway Charlie N. Carrow Tommy Upton Emma E. Casey Ellen Bryan Howard Cayton Audrey Cayton Ruby Cherry Rose of Sharon FWB Ch., Robersonville/ Woman’s Auxiliary Gaybrielle Clar Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Napoleone Susie Smith Clark Freddie Thompson Cyrus Coats Mr. & Mrs. John W. Floyd Lucille Coates Deborah Davenport Frances Cook Oliver CookMary Cooke Helen Smith Edward H. Corbett Rev. & Mrs. Herbert Norman Agnes Corbitt Athalene Pittman Miriam Lamm Mr. & Mrs. Gary Lee Rufus V. Creekmore (alumnus 1925–1935) Mr. & Mrs. David Everett Loomis & Dorothy Crocker Brenda Crocker Dana Edwards Dale Ann Radford
- 6. 6 When someone special passes, charitable gifts are a way to honor their memory. Obituaries sometimes direct these memorial gifts. Gifts designated to the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home are acknowledged individually to the family. These memorials are also included in our Children’s Home Life publication. Rachel B. Jones Smith’s New Home FWB Ch., Kinston Danny Keel Howell Swamp FWB Ch., Walstonburg/ Woman’s Auxiliary J. C. Kirkman Dorothy Kirkman Janet Koepp Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rawls Randolph Lamm Nancy Lamm Willie Ray Lancaster Thomas Lancaster Rev. John R. Lee Mr. & Mrs. Gary Lee Dianne Riley Warren B. Lewis, III Susie Lewis Janet Malpass James Malpass, Jr. Jimmy Malpass James Malpass, Jr. Gerald Marklin Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Napoleone Scott McCoy, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Albert Pierce Elsie McCoy Rev. Dr. & Mrs. David Hines Mac McLean, Jr. McLean’s Café Ester Anne Miller Mr. & Mrs. Keith Bryant Barbara Ann Mills Mr. & Mrs. Jack Raines Elton Mills Hazel Mills Michael Faye Heath Murphy (alumae 1953–1964) Melissa Barnett Cathy Campbell Sylvia Neely Barbara Murray Mr. & Mrs. Donald Batchelor Nancy Batchelor Fred & Shula Nealy Mr. & Mrs. Woodrow Penny Johnny Nobles Mr. & Mrs. James Rowe Jonathon Norris Mr. & Mrs. Jack Raines Catherine O’Neal Belhaven FWB Church James C. Paige Hilda Boyd Thelma Parker Mr. & Mrs. Woodrow Penny David G. Parrish Mr. & Mrs. Gary Lee Sally Parrish Mary Parrish Mr. & Mrs. William Carter Gum Swamp FWB Ch., Greenville/ Woman’s Auxiliary Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Hunsucker Dr. Thomas Parrish Betty Tyson Rev. C. L. & Clara Patrick Barbara P. Herring Fannie C. Peaden Kay Tugwell J. T. Phillips Betty Lou Phillips Debra Pipkin Rock of Zion FWB Ch., Grantsboro/ Woman’s Auxiliary Edward Pittman Mr. & Mrs. Larry D. Pittman Ellen Pittman Mr. & Mrs. Larry D. Pittman J. H. Poole, Sr. James H. Poole Rev. Liv. Trust Marie C. Poore Mr. & Mrs. Rupert Godley Mr. & Mrs. James Rowe Charles Ray Pope Betty Lou Pope Marie Pryse Mr. & Mrs. Franklin James MPL Properties, LLC State Employees Credit Union Mr. & Mrs. John D. Wood Joyce Wood Grace P. Ragan Mr. & Mrs. Gray Harrison Holly Frances Reams Mr. & Mrs. Roger Reams Norma Reardon Wanda Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Robert Kornegay Steven Reel Mr. & Mrs. Allen Jernigan Grace Rollins Mr. & Mrs. John Bartlett Teresa Kirkman Ross Dorothy Kirkman Dartha Rowe White Hill FWB Ch., /Aurora Mildred Savage Mr. & Mrs. Charles Savage John Sheldon Dr. Thomas Parrish Norman Savage Mr. & Mrs. Charles Savage Doris Wilson Sharp Mr. & Mrs. George Sharp Bill Shellbrick Mr. & Mrs. Charles Cohoon Mary Alice Skinner Hickory Chapel FWB Ch., Ahoskie Jackie Witherington Doris A. Smith Mr. & Mrs. Steven Bell Frances Smith Smith’s New Home FWB Ch., Kinston Charlie Spain Janette Spain Roland C. Stone Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Worthington Catherine Raper Davenport Lelia Davenport Laura Long Davis Mr. & Mrs. Charles Long Mae Bunn Davis Mr. & Mrs. Danny Gay Jo Ann Basden Davis New Beginnings Outreach Ctr., Kinston Smith’s New Home FWB Ch., Kinston Mr. & Mrs. Richard Stroud Virgil Deese Dr. Thomas Parrish Bobby G. Dennis Mr. & Mrs. Jack Raines Billy Wayne Dilday Mr. & Mrs. Jessie Dilday Ann Duke Mr. & Mrs. Lee Brock Gaitha Drew, Jr. Smith’s New Home FWB Ch., Kinston Barbara M. Dudley Mr. & Mrs. Jack Raines Rev. Lester Duncan Mr. & Mrs. Paul Duncan, II Mr. & Mrs. David Hassell Nancy Duncan Mr. & Mrs. Billy Vincent Billie Elmore Sudie Elmore Howard Evans Donald Case Melvin Everington Lois Everington Rena Faircloth Ruby Buck Bonnie Farmer (former CH Staff) Mr. & Mrs. George Farmer Allie Fillingame Helen Smith David Lee Fillingame Mr. & Mrs. Rodney Fillingame Eula Bell Fillingame Juniper Chapel FWB Ch.,Vanceboro Betty Sue Forrest Joy Clark Elvy K. Forrest, Sr. Trillis Baker Joy T. Clark L. W. Edwards Heirs Farm Acct. Mr. & Mrs. Louis Holloway Judy McLaughlin Pitt Co. American Legion Agricultural Fair William Reason B. Leon Skinner Cliff Thomas Edna Tyson Voiture #1198 Charlotte Moore Robana Fowler Eunice Sexton Fannie H. Garris (alumnae 1925–1935) Gladys Beddard Shirley Rice Gaskill Robert Gaskill Herbert F. Gay III Wanda Johnson Dan Gooding Jackie Witherington Roy Grady Mr. & Mrs. Billy Eason Raymond Gray, Sr. Mr. & Mrs. Gary Lee Teresa Pelt Grubbs Dr. & Mrs. Michael Pelt Irene Gilbert Gurganus Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Cherry May Haddock Dr. & Mrs. Donald Ribeiro Bernice Hardison Mertie Coltrain Bennie M. Harris Mr. & Mrs. Sybil Harris Beth S. Hawley Sheila Jackson Dean Head Mr. & Mrs. Mitch Winstead Joshua Heath Dr. & Mrs. Bruce Baird Katie G. Herring Mr. & Mrs. Oscar Herring Oscar E. Herring, Sr. Mr. & Mrs. Oscar Herring David A. Higson Patricia Higson Fannie Hill Smith’s New Home FWB Ch., Kinston James A. Hill Julia Hill Kenneth Hill Julia Hill Tom Holliday Mertie Coltrain Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rawls Richard Holloman Becky Carraway Don Howard Hilda Watkins Elizabeth Howell Vernon Howell Doris Lancaster Hudson (alumna 1955–1963) Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Lancaster Sonny Hughes Mr. & Mrs. William Bradshaw Kalisty Radford ML Hunt & Pearl Johnson Hunt Wanda Johnson Vida Ipock Mr. & Mrs. Clarence Gaskins Hubert & Juanita Jackson Mr. & Mrs. George Jackson, Jr. George Jarvis Nina Jarvis Bobby Johnson Sylvia Johnson Clara Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Roger Reams
- 7. 7 Estate Gifts Catherine Gaskill Fulcher Ralph Hazylett Vann (wife, Lillie Gaye Batten Vann) Thomas E. Willoughby Harvey B. Stott Mr. & Mrs. George Sharp Mildred K. Sullivan Mr. & Mrs. Edward Sullivan James Sullivan Lewis P. Sumner Maxine Sumner Rev. & Mrs. T. O. Terry Ellen Riggs William Thompson Brock Equipment Co. Billy Tripp Friendship FWB Church, Farmville Jane Tyson Tripp Trillis Baker Jackie Witherington Mary B. Tugwell Linda Barbee Allen Turnage, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Danny Gay Christa Bell Tyson (alumna 1943–1952) Mr. & Mrs. Randolph Tyson Eugene Tyson (alumna 1943–1955) Mr. & Mrs. Randolph Tyson Steven W. Tyson Mr. & Mrs. Harrison Phelps William Upton Lexa McMicken C. J. Wade, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Jack Raines Stevie Warrick Mr. & Mrs. Gary Lee Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Sellers Alma & Linwood Watson Edith Baker Rev. W. H. Willis Westside FWB Church Eileen Childers NC Lighthouse Christian Riders Rev. Willis Wilson Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Rawls David Randall Winstead Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Brockwell Aileen Davis Mr. & Mrs. Terry Harrison Mr. & Mrs. Richard Joyner Kalisty Radford Mr. & Mrs. David M. Winstead Mr. & Mrs. William G. Winstead Charles Wood Judy Wood A Mountain-Top Experience Earlier in the year, staff and children headed off to Black Mountain for a weekend retreat. Dianne Riley, Director of Campus Ministry, had carefully planned details for the events of the weekend. She chose for the retreat theme What on Earth Am I Here For from a book by Rick Warren. We left the Children’s Home campus after 10 a.m. on Friday, just after a devotion in Memorial Chapel. Many of our children had never seen the mountains and you could easily tell which ones when they first looked down the mountain while riding on the parkway. We arrived at Cragmont around 4:30 p.m. that afternoon. We had just enough time to get unpacked, make our beds and rock on the front porch while John was preparing his “famous pig pick’n” just for us. Following dinner we had games, singing and making s’mores—more firsts for our group. Our first sessions were on team building, leadership, CPR, talks just for Girls, Quilling and other activities. A stop to visit the Zebulon B. Vance Birthplace near Weaverville proved to be interesting. Zebulon is right next door to Middlesex,andourchildrencouldrelateto that. A trip to Black Mountain Children’s Home to share a meal and fellowship was also a highlight of the trip. On Sunday morning packing for home before going down for breakfast and worship, John shared a wonderful message “The Reason for Everything” to tie all of the points of the weekend together. Everyone boarded the buses and began the trip eastward. While Dianne was reflecting on the trip, she said “I think seeing a big valley was just as big as seeing the mountains. One young lady was fascinatedbythewindingofthemountain roads. She asked “were we up there?” Much time and effort went into planning this retreat. Thanks to all of the volunteers, Bryant Hines, Rink and Faye Allen—our bus drivers, Dick and Kay Brown of Little Rock who instructed some of the sessions, Greenville First and Rose of Sharon for sharing their buses, Children’s Home staff who helped with sessions and other areas as needed, and to the special someone who helped us with the funds to make this retreat weekend possible. I am sure there were memories made on the mountain that weekend that will always remain in the hearts and minds of our children and staff.
- 8. 8 When school ends for the summer we only have a few days of idle time on campus before our summer recreation program begins. Some of our campus residents secure summer jobs and the others start a daily recreation routine. This past summer the days usually started with a brisk walk. Everyone would assemble in front of the Learning Center, formerly the Recreation Center, and take a brisk walk around campus and up Buck Deans Road. This served as a good way to get everyone in the mood for the activities ahead. Activities varied, the boys would go swimming on Tuesdays and the girls would swim on Thursdays, the other times were filled by volleyball games, football toss, movies and popcorn, scavenger hunt, tie-dying tee shirts, a spa day for the girls, and the grand finale—a trip to Wet n’ Wild in Greensboro. Many of the residents used the recreation schedule as a “fitness” plan. Some of the girls are very excited about getting in shape this summer and shopping for “smaller” clothing for school. The summer program was rewarding to the residents, as well as to the summer recreation director, Jennifer Veillette. “It is hard to pass up an opportunity to do what you like to do” shared Jennifer, the 2014 summer recreation director for the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home. Jennifer is a Nash County native, having grown upinRockyMountandgraduated day. She encouraged them to set goals; some want to be able to participate in the Children’s Home’s third annual 5K run in April. When Jennifer was asked what her summer job at The Home had meant to her, she replied “I have really enjoyed getting to know even more of the kids here. It has been good having the opportunity to learn about and understand where they are coming from and even what makes them act the way they sometimes do at school. This summer has helped me to be able to know how to help them more when they are back in school. I hope that I can be an extra resource person for them during the upcoming school year. They will already know that I care about them and I will be checking on them.” “ThankyouFreeWillBaptistChildren’s Home for this wonderful opportunity,” says Jennifer. Summer recreation is always an exciting time for the residents and staff. This year proved to be a great way to keep the residents busy, while learning healthy exercises and eating habits. School has started back, and summer memories are being tucked away to recall later. “Remember that summer day when you…” from Northern Nash High School. After obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education (PE) and another in Health from ECU, she returned to Nash County to teach middle school health and PE. Jennifer also grew up in the Living Faith Fellowship Pentecostal Holiness Church where she was active in Sunday School, Youth, VBS, and now teaches preschool there. With this background in ministry it was a no-brainer when her county supervisor told her about the position available with us. She says, “It is doing what I love; I know some of the kids from my school and it will give me an opportunity to serve them in a different way.” Jennifer planned daily activities, having to be creative with the resources she had to work with. The schedule here is not quite as rigid as a schoolroom environment and she learned to be more flexible with activities and schedules, much different than having set units in the school system. Jennifer initiated health awareness with the residents, and has seen results by watching the residents change some of their eating habits, becoming more active with walking and running each Healthy, Refreshing, and Fun Summer Recreation 2014
- 9. 9 Please RSVP by November 10, 2014 Name: ______________________________________________ Telephone: _____________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________ City: ________________________________________________ State: ________ Zip: ___________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________ Number in Party: _______ Church Name: ________________________________________ Conference: ____________________________ Please list on separate sheet who will be attending from your church. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Please return form or e-mail to: Free Will Baptist Children’s Home, Inc. P. O. Box 249 • Middlesex, NC 27557 Telephone: (252) 235-2161 • Fax: (252) 235-2625 • E-mail: driley@fwbch.org Come Recognize and Celebrate With Us “Life Changing Gifts” At the Twenty-Ninth Annual Friends of Children’s Day Free Will Baptist Children’s Home Saturday, November 22, 2014 Twelve o’clock noon in Whitley Center Among the Program Personalities: Donald Ribeiro, Pastor, Ormondsville OFWB Church—Speaker Pam Kennedy, Kristie Woolard, and Common Threads—Music Johnny Sullivan, Chairman, Board of Directors Gary Lee—Presidential Address Twenty-Ninth Annual Friends of Children’s Day November 22, 2014
- 10. 10 2014 Paper Products Drive Another Grand Slam! By July 11 more than 1,350 tickets had been purchased for the eleventh annual paper products cleaning supply drive at the MudCats Stadium, Zebulon. There were many more tickets sold for the game, but these 1350 were presold for special seating in the “church section,” representing more than 55 Free Will Baptist Churches. Many churches use this annual drive as an opportunity to take their youth groups and congregation out for a good evening of fellowship, baseball, and fireworks. We say thanks to each of you for your support. When the gates opened for the game there were two large covered trailers, one at each stadium entrance, to hold the paper products and supplies that would be brought to the game. Also at the gates were Children’s Home staff and volunteers waiting to greet you. Many of you got “stuck” with a Thank you sticker—a little show of our appreciation, or you may have picked up a souvenir Children’s Home baseball as you entered the gate to the ballgame. By the end of the second inning, the trailers were full and headed to the Children’s Home. The amount of goods collected for the drive this year surpassed previous years. We received enough paper towels, tissue, and laundry detergent to sustain us for several months, along with many other needed supplies. We are very appreciative of this wonderful blessing to The Home. A special thanks goes out to the collective efforts of the men of Spring Branch OFWB Church Layman’s League, Walstonburg, and members of Rose Hill Church, Snow Hill. These two groups work very hard each year to organize supply collections, collect, load, deliver, and unload all of the supplies. Thanks guys for all your hard work. Also, a special thanks goes out to each church group and member who participated in the drive. It was an awesome gathering of Free Will Baptists and other Christians working together.
- 11. 11 º Prior to the end of school the annual awards banquet was held on campus. Many of the residents received awards: Most Improved; Highest Campus GPA; Best Math and History Grades and other recognitions, as well as promotions to the next grade level. Good job! º In early June, we had four residents graduate from High School. This is one of the greatest accomplishments they have achieved so far and we are sure it is only the beginning. A special recognition service was held on June 8 in Memorial Chapel, with refreshments afterwards. Three of these young people have already begun the next phase of their educational journey and are already attending college. Kudos, ladies and gentlemen on a job well done. º As soon as school was out last summer, several of our residents participated in a local job fair. They were interested in getting summer jobs. Three of our young ladies secured jobs. Their school schedules and their hard work to maintain their school/college grades has allowed them to keep their job. Congratulations are certainly in order for these three young ladies. Kudos Korner º One of the graduate young men is currently enrolled in and attending college, but is considering joining the United States Air Force, a dream he has had for some years. We are praying that the Lord will guide him in the direction he should take. º Many of the young adults here have made and accomplished many personal goals and overcome obstacles that were burdening them since the last Issue of Children’s Home Life. Congratulations are also extended to them. º Each month the staff gathers for a short devotion and information update meeting. During each meeting we have staff recognition to commend a job well done. º Congratulations are also in order for one of the Home’s alumni. On Homecoming Sunday, July 13, 2014, Jerry Smith (alumni 1949–1960) was awarded a 50th Masonic Anniversary pin and certificate. Phil Mercer (alumni 1953–1968), past Master of Richlands’ Lodge #564 made the presentation. Tom Lancaster (alumni 1955–1965), of Lodge #646, Elizabethtown and Jerry’s wife, Susan Smith, also participated in the presentation. Congratulations Jerry on this accomplishment. Since our last edition of Children’s Home Life there have been many exciting things take place at the Home that warrant mentioning.
- 12. Member 2008–2009 Benchmarks NON-PROFIT ORG. USPOSTAGE PAID WILSON,NC PERMIT#507 FreeWillBaptistChildren’sHome P. O.Box249 Middlesex,NC 27557-0249 AMinistryofOriginalFreeWillBaptistsSince1920 Website:www.fwbchildrenshome.org • E-mail:cbatten@fwbch.org • Digital Cameras (5) • Duffel Bags or Luggage for Teens • Combs and Brushes (soft bristles) • Flash Drives • Sport Water Bottles or Insulated Tumblers with Straws • (5) Trashcan Racks with Covers (needs to hold 4 trashcans) and Heavy-Duty Trashcans to fit in Racks (Please call for details) • Canned Food Items and Dry Goods (call for details) • (3) Chest-type Freezer 14.8 cu.ft. • Bulletin Boards (cork: 4 x 3) • Under-the-Counter Dishwasher (call for details) • 36” Electric Stove • Needs List • Inside this issue 68th Annual Alumni Homecoming. . pp. 1 & 3 President's Message. . . . . . . . . . . p. 2 Employee Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 2 Second Annual 5k Run/Walk . . . . . . . p. 4 A Servant’s Heart. . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 4 Honors & Memorials. . . . . . . . . pp. 5–7 A Mountain-Top Experience. . . . . . . . p. 7 Summer Recreation 2014. . . . . . . . . p. 8 Friends of Children Day Announcement . . p. 9 2014 Paper Products Drive. . . . . . . p. 10 Kudos Korner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 11 Needs List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 12 CHILDREN’S HOME LIFE Cynthia Batten, Editor The newsletter of the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home, Inc. Middlesex, North Carolina September 2014, Edition #101 (252) 235-2161 Website: www.fwbchildrenshome.org