125 years

May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 And now abides faith, hope, charity, these three; But the greatest of these is charity. Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina

Creating memories your with Summer gift! (see page 5) “Hope In Style” slated for August 4. (see page 7)

The banner below is similar to the one appearing during the 1970s with the text “The Voice of Child

Care Since 1887.” (See related story on page 3.)

F i r s t t o t e l l t h e s t o r y !

1 8 8 7 2 0 1 2

Rebellious adolescent could be the way 13-year-old Aimee would be stereotypically

described. It is true that she is rebellious and she admits, “I have urges to do bad things some-times.” But since coming to live at Mills Homein Thomasville a little more than two years ago,Aimee could also be described as inquisitive,maturing and forward thinking.

“I have changed a lot – everyone sees it,” shesays. “I’m getting better all the time.”

Aimee’s childhood is marked by memories of brokenness. Her mother was “always” sick.She remembers her mom’s unstable behaviorand instead of her mother taking care of her, she was forced to take care of both of them. Her parents’ divorce when she was six years old left her with further emotional scarring.

Her father getting full custody and movingAimee to her grandparents’ home placed hisdaughter in a better living space, but the hurtand anger didn’t just go away. While her fatherworked driving a semi-trailer truck – being awayfor days on end – Aimee’s grandparents were leftto parent an angry ten-year-old.

“Things got pretty bad,” Aimee confesses. “I was told to shape up or I would go live some-where else.”

That somewhere else became Mills Home.“When I first arrived, I was resolved, emotion-

less,” she says, “I was determined that no onewould see what I was feeling inside.”

Aimee’s behavior didn’t change either. Shestole things from the other girls in her cottage.Her classmates at school laughingly said she hadthe “mouth of a sailor” and the friction betweenher and her grandparents – especially her grand-mother – still remained.

However as time passed, Aimee’s attitude softened. “I began to realize this was a prettygood place. I learned that if I needed to talk,there was always someone there to listen to me.”

There are still days when she has outbursts in the cottage, but there are caring child careworkers waiting to help. Adults she can trust.

“I’m learning that I can ask for help,” she

confides. “I’m learning I don’t have to listen to my urges. I’m having moregood days than bad days.”

Aimee grew up attendingchurch, but she struggleswith her own personal faith.She has been open to Godworking in her life, but shedoesn’t shy away from askingGod tough questions, espe-cially since her mother’sdeath in October 2011.

“There are things thathappen that make it hard to believe sometimes,”Aimee admits.

Aimee’s life remains a life of contrast between herlife before coming to MillsHome and her life now.

“I ask questions, but I cansee God in other people,”Aimee says. “I feel His lovethrough people here. Theylove us. They show it.”

Aimee loves music. Sheknows the lyrics to many ofher favorite songs, quotingthem to make points aboutlife or her feelings.

She is committed to hereducation. “Dropping out isnot an option,” she asserts.

Aimee thinks about going to college – she would love to study music. She hasa number of family memberswho have served, or are

serving, in the military. She may choose to follow in their footsteps. Whatever direction she chooses, she looks forward to the future.

“Before, I was frustrated,” Aimee concludes.“Even though I’m still seeking, and I don’t haveall the answers, my life is so much better. I’mhappier.”

Aimee BusyAsking Questions___________________________________________________

By W. James (Jim) Edminson, Editor

Thirteen-year-old Aimee has lived at Mills Home in Thomasville for a little more than two years. She is choosing to curb her frustrations and anger

by trusting BCH staff and talking about her feelings.

Charity & Children - Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, Inc., 204 Idol St., P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338. Michael C.Blackwell, publisher; W. James (Jim) Edminson, editor (email: wjedminson@bchfamily.org); J. Blake Ragsdale, managing editor (email: jbragsdale@bchfamily.org). Charity & Children (ISSN 0009-1723-09 USPS 100-460) is published once a month for friends and supporters of Baptist Children’sHomes and is printed at Stone Printing, High Point, NC. It is mailed by Excalibur, Winston-Salem, NC. Circulation: 66,000 four times a year,46,000 eight times a year. Periodicals postage paid at Thomasville, NC and at additional mailing offices. For free subscription, or to be removedfrom the mailing list or to make address correction or change, write circulation manager Karen Fincher (using the above address), email her atkfincher@bchfamily.org or call her at 336-474-1209. Subscribe online at www.bchfamily.org/contact/index/charityandchildren. POSTMASTER:Send change of address to Charity & Children, P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338.

2 Charity & Children May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Find Baptist Children’s Homes on Facebook

It is no secret that today’s children, adults andfamilies face situations that are more challeng-

ing than at any other time in our history.Everyday at Baptist Children’s Homes (BCH), I, along with the dedicated men and womenwho are committed to our ministry, offer hopeand healing to those who take a step onto one of our facilities in 18 locations across the state.

If you are in-tune to any media today, youknow about the plight of those who are facingeconomic hardships, broken relationships, seri-ous illness, hunger, abuse, low self-esteem, hope-lessness, or any number of maladies that wouldmake a strong person shudder. Whether youhave your I-Phone, I-Pod, I-Pad, Kindle/Nook,TV, radio, newspaper, or news magazines con-stantly available, you are aware of those whoneed someone to help them sort out the issuesthey are facing.

That is the essence of our ministry at BCH as we fulfill our vision of “sharing hope. . .changing lives.” I am going to highlight some of the ways that we are available to you or tothose you know who might need the help thatBaptist Children’s Homes offers.

In our almost 127 years of ministry, BCH has responded to the needs of the day. It is nodifferent for us in 2012, and in order to be relevant, we must meet people at their point of need. Those needs are changing in a startlingmanner. It takes courage to change the way weminister but our mission is clear and that is tochange lives for the better.

Startling statistics have just been released concerning homelessness of children in GuilfordCounty (the county adjacent to our Mills Homecampus in Thomasville). According to an articlein the News & Record, Greensboro, NC, Feb.16, 2012, “There are 48% more homeless

Guilford County children since 2007-08. These homeless children stay in emergency shelters, hotels or motels, or with friends or relatives because their families lost their homesor cannot afford housing. The U.S. Departmentof Education defines homelessness ofchildren and youth as lacking a fixed,regular and adequate nighttime resi-dence.”

BCH is responding to needs ofhomeless children and their momsacross North Carolina in a new andinnovative way. It is called Family Care – Residential Care for SingleMothers and Their Children. Its purpose is to keep mothers and chil-dren together while empowering singlemothers and their children for success!

_____________

Highlights are –Provides goal-focused living environ-

ment within a cottage settingStructured to help mothers transition

to successful, independent livingConnects mother with resources and

community servicesTeaches skills to maintain stable home, job and

incomeMothers work or attend school at least 30 hours

per week; save a percentage of incomeMothers provide appropriate care for children;

participate in counsel-ing by Family CareQualifications –

Mothers at least 18years old; have legalcustody of children

Admission qualifica-tions may include lackof financial stability,potential or currenthomelessness, few or no job skills, and littleor no family supportCosts –

Mothers pay a $60 monthly program

fee after first monthIf employment has not been obtained, mothers

work 10 hours per week at a BCH location to earncredit hours to be applied toward the monthly fee.

______

The benefitsof this newministry havebeen astound-ing even in its infancy.Mothers areoffered a wayto take care of their chil-dren, learn lifeskills includingparenting, prepare them-selves to beindependent,and move into their ownhomes. Theultimate goal is to keep

mothers and their children together. BCH isdedicated to provide guidance, counseling andafter care to help them rebuild their lives andrestore their hope while caring for their children. See related articles on pages 4 and 8.

MY THOUGHTS

Family CareChanges Lives_________________________________________________________

By Michael C. Blackwell, President

The boys at Culler Cottage, a Family Care cottage at Mills Home in Thomasville, enjoy the benefits of a safe living environment. Family Care offers a helping hand to mothers asthey work to transition into successful, independent living. Mothers must be 18 years old

and the legal custodian of the children to participate.

For information about BCH’s Family Care

Program, contact:

Central Area: Regina Keener 1-800-476-3669

rrkeener@bchfamily.org

Western Area: Tim Dailey 1-800-476-3669

tpdailey@bchfamily.org

Eastern Area: Sandy Perry 1-800-476-3669

ssperry@bchfamily.org

May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Charity & Children 3More stories at www.bchfamily.org

Mary Lindsey Jones is noticeably emotional as she receives her framed

“Excellence in Direct Service Award” fromBaptist Children’s Homes president Michael C.Blackwell and BCH Trustee chairperson MarianPhillips. A caregiver to the developmentally disabled adult men living at Stegall Home inMarshville, Jones steps to the podium andaddresses BCH staff members and trustees present at the April 10 ceremony.

With tears dropping to the podium, Jonesspeaks about her love for the special residentswho she calls “family.”

“They gave me a hug this morning before I left to come here. They told me, ‘Ms. Mary,we’re so proud of you!’” she says. “At Stegall,we don’t have a group home. . .we have a homethat is filled with love and with Jesus.”

Jones’ passion and dedication is the reason sheand three other BCH peers were honored withthe 2012 Excellence in Direct Service Awards.Each staff member exhibits outstanding serviceto boys, girls and adult residents in BCH’s care.

Excellence in Direct Service Award winnersachieve quality relationships with children, fami-lies, co-workers, and colleagues. These staffmembers work directly with the children and residents entrusted to BCH’s care and are nominated by their peers.

2012 HonoreesMary Lindsey Jones has served for more

than four years as a developmental disabilitiesministry caregiver. Jones’ love for the residentsin her care is evident daily in the way she speaksand carries herself. She makes sure they are welltaken care of while also maintaining their dignity.And every day, she lets her light shine for Jesus.

Miriam Matias is a family care worker at MillsHome in Thomasville. She was instrumental inthe opening of BCH’s first Family Care cottageand helped open a second cottage serving astrainer to the new family care worker. Matiasspeaks Spanish fluently which has helped in serv-ing more Latino families. Matias is always readyto help someone in need and will drop whatshe’s doing to meet with a family in crisis.

Hannah Vinson serves as a lead teacher forBCH’s Weekday Education program. At theRobert Idol Child Development Center inThomasville, Vinson teaches in the NC Pre-Kindergarten program, a state-funded preschoolopportunity for qualifying families. She is seenby her co-workers as a teacher who will do what-ever it takes to reach and teach a child. Vinsonsets a strong example in everything she does.

Don Zander works with children and familiesas a case manager/clinician at Broyhill Home inClyde. He is a Christian example to the familiesBCH serves. Zander gently assists children andfamilies by helping them identify and overcomechallenges they face. He truly demonstrates a heart for BCH’s vision of sharing hope. . .changing lives.

Staff RecognizedFor Excellence___________________________________________________

Four BCH staff members received an Excellence in Direct Service Award for their exemplary work in caring for residents.The awards were presented by BCH president Michael C. Blackwell and board of trustees chairperson Marian Phillips.

Left to right, Hannah Vinson, Mary Lindsey Jones, Michael C. Blackwell, Miriam Matias, and Don Zander.

Commemorate

Charity & Children’s 125th Anniversary by making a one-time gift of $12.50 above your regular, yearly financial contributions to BCH. To mark this special occasion and to show your appreciation and love for Charity & Children, send your one-time gift to:

Charity & Children, P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361

Baptist Children’s Homes strengthened itsability to impact not only the lives of chil-

dren but also their families during these years. It was a time of innovation and growth.

John Roberts served as editor from 1960-1965. Subsequent editors included: OrvilleScott, Eugene White, J.D. Dennis, and CharlesHodges. It was during this time that maintaininga BCH print shop came to an end and the print-ing of Charity & Children was contracted –putting an end to training children for the print-ing trade.

Dr. Michael C, Blackwell took the helm aspresident of BCH in 1983 and three editorsserved between 1984 and 1987: Rick Stegall,Marianna Boucher and Bob Wachs. In 1987,Blackwell hired Norman Jameson, then associateeditor of The Baptist Messenger – the state paper

for the Oklahoma Baptist State Convention.Blackwell expanded the editor’s role to includedirecting all the institution’s communications.

In 1987, Blackwell led the way in marking thecentennial of Charity & Children by producinga collectible, commemorative issue. The 60-page, November Charity & Children was com-prised of articles written by Baptist and BCHleaders and individuals who had been involvedwith the paper’s production in its recent past.

The issue also gave Blackwell the opportunityto define C&C’s future. “Fear not for the futureof Charity & Children,” Blackwell wrote as theheadline of the last article in the issue.

“I love this little paper with all my heart,” hewrites. He has served as the paper’s publisher hisentire tenure as BCH President/CEO.

C&C’s Fourth 25 Years: 1962-1987Thank you

for giving!

Children learn many lessons while living atBaptist Children’s Homes (BCH). For 128

years, we have been sharing lessons of hope andhealing with children and families – lessons thatwill guide them through life.

Sunday, April 15, the Hunt sisters Martha,Mary and Betty attended Mills Home BaptistChurch. The trio lived at Mills Home from 1948until 1958. After church, they invited me to jointhem for lunch. They spent time rememberinggrowing up at Mills Home and the lessons theylearned.

When it was time to give thanks for the food,they recited the prayer they learned as children.Holding hands they said in unison, “God isgreat, God is good. . .”

As we continued our conversation, the sistersexpressed their gratitude for those that had pro-vided for them and taught them the lessons andvalues used in their lives. They in turn havepassed forward the lessons they learned to theirfamily and friends – the lessons of giving backwith gratitude.

Children at BCH continue to learn thosesame lessons:

Meet Leonardo, one of our youngest resi-dents. Leonardo is only months old but he islearning that he is loved. Leonardo is learningthat he is valued. He is learning that many peo-ple care about him and his family, and that theyare actively working to provide for them.

As he experiences these lessons, he too willlearn to love and value others just as others havecared for him. Holding this precious baby in myarms, I pray that he will learn that he is indeedVALUED by a loving God, and I pray that hewill grow up to become all which God intends.

Thank you for wrapping your armsaround this baby boy and for being apart of the lessons that will be learned bythis SPECIAL child.

On Wednesday, April 11, a group ofus shared BCH’s story with EmerywoodBaptist Church in High Point. After theprogram, the church’s youth conducted a cake auction to raise funds for a mis-sion trip. Those that purchased cakeshelped their youth, but they also tookthe opportunity to bless our children. We left thechurch that night with 10 cakes! BCH’s childrenhad BIG smiles on their faces.

Upon returning to campus, the children invited me to have cake with them in their cot-tage. While visiting, I struck up a conversationwith a 15-year-old girl who had just been admit-ted into care that day. I asked her to tell meabout her home.

“I do not have a home,” she replied. “I washomeless.”

That evening she was given clothes and food.She was encouraged by her cottage parents, theother girls in the cottage, and the church we hadvisited. She was shown that she is valued and shesaw how many people truly care.

For this teen, the lessons learned that nightwill be reinforced over and over again while shelives at Mills Home. Thank you for being a partof the lessons learned and lessons shared by this15-year-old and the other girls in her cottage.

Reece, who lives at Cameron Boys Camp,accepted Christ on March 26 at 4:00 p.m. WhenReese came to camp he did not believe in God.

“I always knew God was real, I just did notwant to believe,” Reece explained. “As I spenttime going to chapel and vespers and being in

a 100% Christian environmenthearing the facts and truthsabout Jesus, I decided that Godmust be real. I needed tobelieve in him.”

Before camp, Reece allowedevery challenge to consumehim. He felt like a victim and,because of his pain, he lashedout verbally at those around

him. Instead of always allowing struggles toaffect him negatively, he’s learned to be givingand to be accepting of God’s grace. All these

wonderfullessons, andaccepting Godinto his life, arehelping Reece tobuild a betterrelationship withhis mom, stepdad and sister.

Thank you forthe many waysyou make a difference inthe lives of ourchildren andfamilies. Thankyou for caringfor the least ofthese and follow-ing Jesus’ exam-ple of helpingothers.

Join me in giving thanks for the opportunitiesGod gives us to teach and to learn. Join me ingiving thanks for all the many teachers andlessons learned!

Thank you for lessons learned and for liveschanged! Call or email me your story of lessonslearned, or share a story about someone who has

made a difference in your life. (1-800-476-3669 ext. 1230 orbbgray@bchfamily.org)

WORTHWHILE INVESTMENTS

Lessons Learned___________________________________________________

By Brenda B. Gray

Learn more at www.bchfamily.org/support/plannedgiving4 Charity & Children May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4

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.

Be Involved In May!Plan for your church to be a part of BCH’sSpring events and mission opportunities!

May 1 – Founders Day: Cameron Boys Camp in Cameron

May 5 – Friends of Children Workday: Kennedy Home in Kinston, Mills Home in Thomasville,Cameron Boys Camp, Oak Ranch in Sanford

May 12 – Friends of Children Workday: Camp Duncan for Girls in Aberdeen, Odum Home inPembroke

May 12 – Barbecue Festival: Broyhill Home in Clyde11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. BBQ Cook-off, Car & Truck Show, Live Music. All proceeds benefit Broyhill Home

For more information on how you or your church can participate, call 1.800.476.3669 ext. 1277.

Brenda Gray, BCH executive vice president development and communications, holds two-and-a-half-month-old Leonardo. Leonardo and his mother Erica live at one of Mills Home’s

two Family Care cottages. The Family Careprogram offers a safe, goal-focused living environment equipping single mothers for success.

Scan with your smartphoneto see Reece share his testi-mony on YouTube.

May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Charity & Children 5Give your Summer gift online at www.bchfamily.org/givenow

S U M M E R A P P E A L

Must have Credit Card Expiration Date: __________Three-digit security code (on back of card): ___ ___ ___

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

Name _____________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________________

Phone _______________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________________________________________________

Credit Card Option: Visa Mastercard Name on card: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Card #: ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___ Signature: __________________________________________________________________

Mail to: BCHP.O. Box 338Thomasville, NC27361

To give immediately click on www.bchfamily.org/givenow

Do you recall the dampness of the salty breeze gentlyblowing across your face? Or the sunlight brilliantlyreflecting across the water’s surface? My memories of family beach trips are precious. Years ago when I was a youth pastor, mywife Kathy and our two young children spent summer breaks at Caswell Beach. Wading inthe ocean water – splashing and laughing – brought us closer together as a family. Thosesummer trips are among my happiest memories.

The girls in the photo to the right, residents of Mills Home in Thomasville, now have their own precious memories. Last summer, they stood together, hand-in-hand, as a familyon the sandy shore watching the evening sun slowly set. This is a memory you made possible through your caring support.

If these sorts of joyous memories are so important to you and me, think of how meaningful they are to children who have been abused, neglected and abandoned. So many boys and girls come to Baptist Children’s Homes bringing only remembrances tinged with darkness, pain and despair – this is why creating memories for them is such a vital part of our ministry.

Will you be a summer sponsor for our boys and girls? Through your investment, not only are you meeting the day-to-day needs of children, but you will be helping create new memories such as ice cream celebrations at the picnic shelter, attending Vacation BibleSchool, and traveling to Baptist Children’s Homes’ cottage at Indian Beach. These joyous experiences help bring healing from the trauma thathas marked our children’s lives. Painful memories begin to fade as they are replaced by ones filled with moments of joy and laughter.

Thank you for being a caring friend to our boys and girls this summer!

Michael C. BlackwellPresident/CEO

P.S. Please help children this summer! It is important for meeting their tremendous needs, but also for ensuring their summer is filled with encouraging activities that create lasting memories.

Summer Sunshine sponsor for $5,000.00 Summer Sizzle sponsor for $2,500.00 Summer Splash sponsor for $1,250.00 Super Summer sponsor for $500.00

Summer Sensation sponsor for $250.00 Summer Smiles sponsor for $50.00 $ ______ _________________ Other Amount

Please Use My GiftTo Help ChildrenThis Summer.

SUMMER SUNSHINE: Keep kids cool! Help with higher electricity and air-conditioning costs. $5,000.00SUMMER SIZZLE: Keep vans rolling! Help with the high cost of gas to transport children. $2,500.00SUMMER SPLASH: Keep fun flowing! Help with water usage and to keep our three campus pools filled. $1,250.00SUPER SUMMER: Make summer fun! Provide funds for a cottage to go to museums, baseball games, church activities, etc. $500.00SUMMER SENSATION: Make memories! Sponsor multiple children for church and educational camps. $250.00SUMMER SMILES: Give fun and laughter! Provide watermelon, ice cream, and summer treats for a cottage. $50.00

SUMMERSPONSORPACKAGES

Remember the first time yousaw the ocean?

Patsy Parsons’ heart is never very far from the Prime Timers at Holly Springs Baptist

Church in Broadway – a group she has led for15 years. “When I saw the Red Bags at the 2011annual meeting of the North Carolina BaptistState Convention, I thought, hey, this is justwhat they need – a brightly-colored bag that willstand out and help them keep all their medicinesin one place.”

Patsy and her pastor-husband, Jerry, have personal experience with medication manage-ment – having provided care forJerry’s parents sev-eral years beforethey passed away.“I know too well that takingmedicines incor-rectly can causeserious problems,”says Patsy Parsons.“These days, peo-ple are on so manydifferent medications; it can be very complicated.As soon as I saw the Red Bags, I knew theycould help our Prime Timers.”

As Patsy and Jerry walked to their car after a busy day at the Annual Meeting, Parsons excit-edly begin to share what she had learned about

Red Bags and her blossoming plansfor the 2012 January meeting ofPrime Timers. She would fill eachRed Bag with personal-care goodiesand invite an expert speaker whocould answer prescription-relatedquestions.

And that’s just what she did. In addition to the brochures thatNCBAM includes in each Red Bag,Parsons added a thermometer,lotion, tissues, and fingernail clip-

pers with an attached magnifier. She also invitedAmy McDonald, a church member who is apharmacist, to be guest speaker.

“Amy did a wonderful job sharing how to usethe bags,” brags Parsons. “She went over how touse the “My Med List” that NCBAM includes in

each bag, how to properly dispose of medicines,vaccine options, pill planners, common interac-tions between over-the-counter and prescriptionmedicines, and many other safety tips.”

As a pharmacist, McDonald is impressed withRed Bags. “Red Bags are an awesome idea andI’m so excited about them. Having prescriptionas well as over-the-counter information quicklyavailable to emergency health care providers can be a life-saver.”

The Parsons, McDonald and Prime TimerMary Frances Watterson were gratified to knowthat Campbell University’s school of pharmacywas the original developer of the Red Bag pro-ject. Jerry, their two sons and one daughter-in-law, are proud alumni of the school – as areMcDonald and Watterson.

The Parsons love to fellowship with the PrimeTimers. They look for practical things that canimprove the quality of their lives. The churchalso distributed Red Bags to 18 homeboundmembers.

“My sister and I are putting our medicines inthe bags so that they will all be in one place. Itwill be very helpful when I go to the doctor,”says Mary Frances Watterson, age 93.

Patsy Parsons was thrilled with the PrimeTimers’ responses to the January program andthe Red Bags. “Every month, when the meetingis over, I have the feeling that I’m doing some-thing right and I was especially happy with theJanuary meeting. I believe the Prime Timers willuse the Bags and that they will make a big differ-ence in their health.”

Editor’s Note: NCBAM is a ministry of BaptistChildren’s Homes. Its purpose is to enable agingadults 65 and over to maintain independenceand a quality life.

6 Charity & Children May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Learn more about NCBAM on YouTube and Facebook.

Red Bags MakePrime Time___________________________________________________

By Carol Layton

Left to right, Prime Time sponsor Patsy Parsons and sisters Nellie Knight and Mary Frances Watterson hold the Red Bagsthey received during their January meeting at Holly Springs Baptist Church in Broadway. North Carolina Baptist Aging

Ministry (NCBAM), partnering with North Carolina Baptists, has distributed nearly 10 thousand Rad Bags.

Health professionals cite medication mismanagement as

the #1 health risk to aging adults.Red Bags can help! Red Bags provide an opportunity for ministry! Red Bags are insulatedand keep medications in one place – ready for a trip to the doctor or visible to first respondersin case of an emergency.

Reach out to the aging in your church and community –Give Red Bags!

Learn more by calling 1.877.506.2226 or visit ncbam.org/redbag.

It can be a shock for houseparents when they first greet a new boy or girl coming

into Baptist Children’s Homes’ (BCH) care. The child often arrives frightened and disheveledwearing dirty and torn clothes. Sometimes theraggedy garments don’t even fit.

For Richard and Diane Schwall, who haveserved as BCH houseparents for 14 years, theynever get accustomed to the difficult circum-stances that bring North Carolina children totheir doorstep.

“Often, their little toes are sticking out oftheir shoes,” says Diane. “They come to us withnothing.”

It’s because of thesespecific needs that Hope in Style – abrand new Summerevent, is a perfect fitfor BCH’s boys andgirls. Held onSaturday, August 4 at the GreensboroCountry Club, Hope is Style will feature a two-hour fashionshow that will intro-duce the event sponsorsin attendance to thechildren they are supporting. They will modelbrand new clothes they are receiving from Belk,lead sponsor for the event.

“It’s about connecting our communities with BCH boys and girls to give children a newbeginning,” says Karen Slate, BCH director ofdevelopment, central area, who is leading eventefforts. “There are so many children within ourcommunities in desperate need. At BCH, we seetheir pain every day. Through Hope in Style, wecan create new awareness and give people theopportunity to make an amazing difference inthe lives of these North Carolina children weserve at our statewide homes.”

Proceeds from the event will provide fundingfor BCH to purchase clothing, food, educationalsupplies, and help houseparents and staff providethe ongoing care the children need.

“One of the biggest rewards we have ashouseparents is to give a child new, cleanclothes,” explains Richard Schwall.

Diane Schwall agrees, “I took a little boy whomoved into our cottage shopping for church

clothes. When he put on those clothes he wasshining like a new penny. The children are just

so proud to have something oftheir own.”

The Hope in Style committeeis busy planning for the eventand are in the process of look-ing for sponsors.

“The majority of the pro-ceeds will come from business-es, organizations and individualswho have a heart for helpingchildren,” says BCH’s T.J.Slaughter. “We’re also lookingfor items to be sold at theevent’s silent auction. It’sanother way friends can help.”

Through Hope in Style, BCH has made atremendous new friend in country recordingartist Buddy Jewell who will perform at theAugust event. Known for hits including “Help

Pour Out The Rain (Lacey’s Song)” and“Somebody Who Would Die for You”, whichreached #1 on the Christian music charts inApril 2010, the CMA/ACM/Grammy nominat-ed musician is a dedicated husband and fatherwho is passionate about helping children.

“We are so excited Buddy is a part of Hope inStyle,” Slate says. “He embodies what the eventis all about - bringing new friends together tooffer children hope.”

To learn more about Hope in Styleor to become a sponsor, call Karen Slate at1.800.476.3669 ext. 1211 or email her atkslate@bchfamily.org.

Refer a child in need at www.bchfamily.org/referral May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Charity & Children 7

Event Brings“Hope In Style”___________________________________________________

Hope in Style committee members discuss details for the new event slated for August 4, 2012 at the GreensboroCountry Club. From left to right, Hope in Style co-chair Monica Vaughn, Dr. Joe Hedgpeth, Esther Futrell, and

Karen Slate. Sponsored by Belk, all proceeds for the event will help NC children living at BCH.

Scan with your smartphone to watchthe Hope in Style launch promo onYouTube! You can also watch onFacebook and Vimeo.

Find “Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina”on Facebook, YouTube or Vimeo to view the

official Hope in Style launch promo.

Family Care has been amazingly successful in the short time the new program for single

mothers and their children has been operating.For Queen, Family Care has given the singlemom and her children the home they did nothave.

“They’ve helped me a lot,” Queen said. “I couldn’t ask for a better place.”

Before moving into Culler Cottage, one of two Family Care homes at Mills Home inThomasville, Queen and her five children livedin a basement that often flooded when it rained.

“It’s a much-needed ministry especiallybecause of the economic downturn” said ReginaKeener, assistant director at Mills Home, “We’remeeting a need that others are not.”

Family Care helps mothers like Queen findemployment, connects them to academic andparenting resources, and prepares them to besuccessful providers for their family.

“We’re trying to equip mothers who have thecapabilities,” explained Miriam Matias, residen-

tial managerat CullerCottage.“There’s ahurdle theyhave, and we develop a plan of service tohelp becomeindependentand stable.”

Mothersfocus on getting back on their feetwhile being provided a safe environ-ment for their children to live. Andthe program specifically looks forsingle mothers who are goal-orient-ed and are committed to workingtoward those goals.

“When we have an opening in a cottage, we can bring a new familyin quickly if everything aligns withthe mother’s application andbackground check,” Keener said.“We receive multiple referrals daily.”

Because of the need and the success of Family Care at both Mills Homes and Moody Home in Franklin, the new program will be added at the following Baptist

Children’s Homes locations:Kennedy Home in Kinston, OdumHome in Pembroke, and OakRanch in Sanford.

“It’s our desire to reach out to as many boys and girls as wepossibly can,” said BCH presidentMichael C. Blackwell. “FamilyCare allows us to increase thenumber of children living in a cottage by as much as 50%.Cottages are large enough to

house multiple families,which means thehomes will be full ofboys and girls.”

Blackwell is excitedabout Family Care’spotential to minister to previouslyunreached families.“Family Care, in addi-tion to our traditionalchildren’s residentialservices, gives us agreater opportunity toshare the light of God’slove with children andfamilies and meet theirtremendous needs.”

Family Care’sSuccess Spreads________________________________________________________

By J. Blake Ragsdale

Family Care residents, left, Queen and her children at Mills Homes’ Culler

Cottage and, below, Shasta and daughterGreenlee at Moody Home in Franklin.

BCH benefactor Theodore G. “Ted” Westmoreland received the 2012 Distinguished Service Award from the Clemson University Alumni Association. Westmoreland, a Shelby, N.C. veterinarian, is also the father of JayWestmoreland, vice-chairman of BCH’s Board of Trustees. Dr. Blackwell, far right, was on hand for the Awards Gala and is pictured here with, right to left, Dr. Westmoreland, wife Margaret, and sons Wes (far left) and Jay.

Visit www.bchkids.org, download and shareKimani’s video and activity sheet with your VBS.Then, collect a Mile of Pennies to help children.

Info? Call 1.800.476.3669 ext. 1209.

Kimani’s Video

Your VBS Can Help!

Kids Helping Kids!

8 Charity & Children May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Download the VBS video and additional resources at www.bchkids.org

A note from Bob “Tony”and Peggy Radford says,“Dear Lib, Peggy and I arerequesting prayer for ourgranddaughter, Hannah. Shestarted having seizures whenshe was in the 6th grade. She isin the 11th grade now. Sincethat time, they have becomemore frequent and very unpre-dictable. Our daughter Kim,Hannah’s mother, was takingher to see a pediatric neurolo-gist in Greenville, S.C. Afterseeing him for a number ofyears, he referred them to theMedical University of S.C. inCharleston. After seeing themfor about 18 months, theydetermined that Hannah was agood candidate for brainsurgery which they performedon Dec. 21, 2011. The surgerywas successful, but Hannahhad to learn again all the thingsthat she could do beforesurgery. She has workedhard to improve herself andhas made much progress, butshe still has a long way to go.We appreciate your prayers.”Sincerely, Tony and Peggy.

The THS class of 1962 has a50th anniversary reunion in theworks and is trying to locateBetty Jean Terry, Eddie Lee,and Bob King. Please send con-tact information for these peo-ple to Janice Lewis Doherty.Email: janpened@hotmail.com.Phone: 336-841-0422.

In trying to help HarryWalls identify MH alumni in avintage photo, I sent a copy ofit to Doug Koontz asking forhelp. The reply I received wasfrom his daughter, CarolynKoontz McKnight, who stated

simply that he had died inAugust, 2011. I obtained hisobituary from the internet andit was very brief. He diedAugust 12 at 89 years of ageand was buried August 14 atGrace Church of Harrisburg.His brother Owen, who was atMH from 1926-1939, died in2010. I hope to have more onDoug next month.

An update sheet from MarieHorne Rigby has a new addressfor herself and her brotherJohn Horne: 202 Pierce St.,Pulaski, VA 24301-6620.Marie and John came fromAnson County to MH in 1955and Marie graduated in 1961.Two other siblings with themat MH were the lateM e lv i n , and Ro n n i e . Nowretired, Marie moved to Pulaskiso that she could be near herdaughter. About Homecom-ings, Marie says one really spe-cial Home-coming was theyear that JD Combs returned.She says memorable experi-ences since leaving MH are toonumerous to describe exceptfor the day she and John andquite a few MH friends wereable to spread Melvin’s ashes atGod’s Acre after a military ser-vice conducted by JeanieHelms Cooper, Pete andChuck Knight, Jane HelmsBrown, Jane’s daughter Sana,Harry Williams, Ken Wallin,and Jimmy Rochelle. For me,that was a very special show oforphan unity.

I was interested recentlywhen I “ran into” the names ofseveral alumni by the sir nameof D o v e . (Marian, Dinah,Billy, Brian and Mark) I got

a response from DennisWebster from the MH websitethat they are all related. Heinformed me that Mark Dovehas been living in Canada forthe last 40 odd years; BrianDove is living in Heath Spring,SC. He is married and has twodaughters. Marian died ofpneumonia in the early 1980’sand Billy died from a brainaneurysm in 2005. And he con-cluded with “Dinah, of course,is still living with me, thankGod!”

I also talked with TedChandler about the previouslymentioned photo. I learnedthat he has remarried andmoved. Friends can now con-tact him and his wife Marge at4211 Arrowhead Dr. NE,Hickory, 28601. Email:drtchandler@me.com. Phone:336-847-0244.

When Marge told Ted shehas six children, 15 grand chil-dren and five great grandchil-dren, he told her “Good, that’sabout an orphanage.” Ted stillworks at Wake Forest one day a week and is involved in a couple of studies. He is alsoworking on a novel to whichwe can look forward.

Of course, that reminds meof another orphan book to bepublished soon. Estie CullerBennington has written a booktitled, “Insanity on the Road toGlory.” Now that is an interest-ing title! Estie says the bookdepicts the first ten years of herlife before she went to live atMills Home. I don’t haveroom for a book review buteven before its publication,one reader has called it “a bookunlike any you have ever read.”Part of the appeal is that it waswritten from the viewpoint of aten year old girl. Equallyappealing is the opening sentence: “At the age of six, I was kidnapped by myDaddy, a diagnosed paranoid-schizophrenic.” When Estiehas selected a cover design, thebook goes to press. Be on the

lookout for a notice of a booksigning!

Mark your calendars forMay 4, 2012 so that you willremember to tune in to NorthCarolina Public TV for aninterview of our own John W.Chandler by William C. Friday,host of the television talk showNorth Carolina People. Mr.Friday is the former presidentof the University system of NCand remains an influential voicein North Carolina. Amongother things, Mr. Friday askedJohn questions about growingup at Mills Home. That will be a very interesting show to watch.

John W. Chandler, (41)told me he came to NC for fiveweeks to escape the cold winterof Massachusetts. I think maybehe was pleased to discover thatwinter never actually arrived.John Chandler came fromMars Hill, NC to Mills Homewith siblings Ted and Calvin in1934, and he graduated in1941. He then went on toWake Forest College where heearned his B.A. degree in 1945and was a member of Phi BetaKappa. He received a B.D.from Duke University in 1952and earned his Ph.D., alsofrom Duke, in 1954. Sixteencolleges and universities,including Williams, haveawarded him honorary doctor-ates.

John became an instructorin philosophy at Wake Forest in1948 and was named assistantprofessor in 1954. He leftWake in 1955 to become an assistant professor of reli-gion at Williams College inWilliamstown, MA. He servedas associate professor of reli-gion from 1960-65 andchaired the department. Hewas named Cluett Professorof Religion in 1965. He wasPresident of Hamilton Collegein Clinton, NY before assum-ing the office of Presidentof Williams College in 1973.As a professor and during his

years as president at WilliamsCollege, John made majorcontributions to the improve-ment of curriculum and specialstudy programs. He was also on the committees that led the college to become co-educational and establishedstudy programs with ExeterUniversity.

“Under John’s leadership,Williams. . .successfully com-pleted a $50 million capitalcampaign; alumni participationin annual financial support setnew records; the college’sendowment grew substantially;the college completed con-struction of a new library, builta new art museum, music center and theater, and beganconstruction of a major ath-letic facility. John also initiatedthe purchase of the buildingsand the cooperative arrange-ment with Exeter College thatmakes it possible for approxi-mately 25 Williams studentsannually to spend a year atOxford University.

After serving for 12 years as president of Williams,Chandler became president ofthe Association of AmericanColleges and Universities. Formore than a decade, beginningin 1990, Chandler assisted thetrustees and search com-mittees of approximately 40colleges and universities thatwere seeking new presidentialleadership, and he served astrustee of several colleges anduniversities. Duke, where heserved as board chair and aschair of its presidential searchcommittee, recognized himwith its highest award, theUniversity Medal for Distin-guished Meritorious Service,and awarded him the honorarydegree of Doctor of Laws.”(from Williams College Archives)

Lib Johnson was a resident of Mills Homefrom 1946 to 1957.Johnson began writingthe Mills Home alumnicolumn in 1992.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/millshomealumni May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Charity & Children 9

MILLS HOME ALUMNI COLUMN

Public TV’s NC PeopleTo Feature Alum ______________________________________________________________

By Lib Smathers Johnson5612 Bledsoe Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410 (336) 299-7412libsjohnson@triad.rr.com

It is essential to Baptist Children’s Homes (BCH)to have individuals who are willing to lend a help-ing hand. People share their time, talents andresources to meet the daily needs of BCH’s boysand girls. You can help in these ways:___________________________________________________Friends of Children Workdays: From painting to planting, participants help with special BCH facility projects, tour campuses and have lunch with childrenand staff. Call 336-474-1209.

Food Roundup: BCH’s “Food Roundup” offers anopportunity for churches, businesses and organiza-tions to help provide the food needs of the boys and girls in BCH’s care. Call 336-474-1277.

Bed Sponsor Program: Become a bed sponsor andhave your name engraved on a plaque mounted on a child’s bed. Each night, your name reminds a childthat you are remembering him in prayer. Call 336-474-1277 or visit www.bchfamily.org/bedsponsor

Mile of Pennies: Help by collecting a “Mile ofPennies.” When it comes to providing care for hundreds of children, it takes everyone workingtogether – one penny added to another penny andthen another penny. Continue to multiply the penniesand just imagine how far you can go in making a realdifference! Call 336-474-1209.

Walk for Change: Have a “Walk for Change” at your church or in your community. Walkers recruitsponsors to give a cash gift for walking a certain dis-tance. Walks can be comprised of church members,organizations and individuals. Or have a “Bike forChange.” It is organized the same way. Trade in yourwalking shoes for a bicycle and get ready to roll! Setyour goal, secure your sponsors, designate a saferoute. . . and have fun! Call 336-474-1209.

Recycle Projects: Collect empty printer cartridges(laser, inkjet and fax cartridges). Deliver items to anyBCH facility or use prepaid shipping labels to senditems to recycler. Millions of cartridges are thrownaway each year. Begin collecting and help this year-round program earn money for children. You canrecycle cell phones, too. Call 336-474-1209.

Bike for Change: Bike for Change is a fun and dynam-ic way for children to help "change" the lives of chil-dren. By pedaling bicycles, children raise support andawareness for Baptist Children’s Homes’ boys andgirls. It is a great service project for schools, churches,and other children's groups. It also teaches childrenthe importance of participating in missions outreach.To learn more, visit www.bikeforchange.org whereyou can download the planning guide and otherresources. Contact Bike for Change coordinator JayWestmoreland at bikeforchange@bchfamily.orgfor more ideas.

Lend Helping Hands . . .

10 Charity & Children May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 More stories at www.bchfamily.org

Wells Fargo Bank presented BaptistChildren’s Homes with one of its unique

plush ponies in appreciation of the ministry’swork with children. Wells Fargo created theseoversized toys based on actual horses once usedby their express agents. The plush pony was givento BCH president Michael C. Blackwell on April20. Blackwell delivered the gift to the Fleshman-Pratt Education Center in Thomasville where itwas first enjoyed by preschool children attendingBCH’s Weekday Education program (see above).Well Fargo’s gift will be displayed across BCH’smultiple locations.

Western Area: The 39th annual Western AreaAwards Banquet was held in March at BroyhillHome in Clyde. The goal of the event was to rec-ognize the residents for their outstanding achieve-ments in a number of areas including academic,athletic, campus involvement and leadership.Many residents had never received accolades fortheir accomplishments. Every child living inBCH’s western area locations receive an award.

Community Support: Mills Home resident Kateshows off her new shoes courtesy of Coca-ColaBottling Company Consolidated in Greensboro.Coke employees collected funds, bought anddelivered shoes for children at Mills Home. Theywanted to ensure children had good shoes towear for summertime activities. The company hasorganized numerous projects for residents.

Camp Duncan: The Pioneers of Camp Duncanjust completed their biggest adventure. The girlsand their chiefs canoed 221 miles along theSuwannee River during their three-week trip. Thegroup began the trip in Fargo, GA and canoed allthe way to the Gulf of Mexico – sometimes pad-dling as many as 20 miles per day.

Church Support: Ladies from EmerywoodBaptist Church in High Point spent an afternoonof fellowship making paper flower crafts with girlsliving at Mills Home’s Blackwell Cottage.

AROUND THE STATE

Wells Fargo Celebrates BCH_________________________________________________________

Michael Dean Grimsley(1970-1974); 1600 CherryRd., Washington, NC 27889:“Lost! That’s how I felt enter-ing a place I had never heardof before, looking down a long road with a bunch ofbig houses. It was a scary feel-ing when my mom droppedme off at a strange new worldand left me all by myself.Nothing in the world like it! First stop was CanadyCottage. First job was trashtruck. Stayed in Canady fora year, and had Melvin andBea Walker, the Pyatts,Moores, and some others ashouseparents. Then one day I was told I was being movedto Lenoir Cottage. Nope, notme! I’m not moving in withthe Beachams! I was told howstrict they were and I wasn’thaving any part of it! Well,after a talk with Melvin WalkerI said I’d give it a try, andended up staying there therest of my time at KH. TheBeachams were just what I needed! They taught me alot about responsibility andwhat it took to take care ofmyself. I worked at the dairyunder Mr. Poteat and Mr.Heggard while I was in LenoirCottage. I was the first oneon campus to buy a cow andsell it. I also learned how todrive a stick shift truck andsome tractors. One of my bestmemories is going to the gar-den and snitching watermel-ons while on the manurespreader. Mr. Bud Hamiltonwould always be shaking hisarm at me! I learned a lot ofgood things about life at KHI wouldn’t have experienced

anywhere else. More fondmemories- I used to look for-ward to trying to drown JohnThompson in the pool.I worked in town the remain-der of the time I was at KH.Helen Hardison ‘Twiggy’used to always come after mewith a switch when I wasdoing something wrong, so I would do wrong just so shewould come after me! I wouldget her so tickled she couldn’tdo anything to me! She wouldalways tell me if I didn’tbehave she was going to getme. She and I just had a goodrelationship the whole time I lived there. KennedyHome offered me an environ-ment I needed away fromwhat I was in before I came tolive there. I will always begrateful for that. I will neverforget all the people and staffI met while living there. Hey,that’s what makes alumni fam-ily!”

Edward Pait (1960-1969);113 Candlewick Dr., Youngs-ville, NC 27596. Email: pait-sr@aol.com: “It’s about 1966-67 residing now in the LenoirCottage. I find a snake anddecide to keep it. After somethought I put it in betweenthe window and the screen.I was okay with keeping it fora few days. I come home fromschool one afternoon andthere is a note on my bulletinboard for me to report to theoffice. I drop off my booksand head over. Mr. Williamsor Mr. Walker asks me if Ihave a snake. I’m thinking ifthey are asking me then theyalready know I have one.‘Yes,’ I tell them. Then

they te l l me I do not haveone anymore. Sometime afterleaving on an early bus some-one let my window up a little.The snake is leaving. Mrs.Mitchell is coming up thestairs and the snake is goingdown the stairs. Mr. Mitchelleliminates the snake. Someonetold on me! When everyonecame in that evening the jokewas on me. I was restricted tomy cottage for two weeks, andI didn’t adopt any moresnakes! I did adopt a red foxfor a while. Another story…we are young adults now andhave learned to be veryresponsible. If we keep theschool bus schedule tight andbehave, we can keep six or sobuses at Kennedy Home. The$20.00 we were paid was a lotof money back then. Yes…twenty school days per month,$20.00 per month. A dollar aday for each school day wedrove. It’s scary looking backon what our responsibilitywas. Fifty cents per trip with60 kids to be delivered toschool and back home eachday. We are at the school buscompound/garage picking upour bus for the new schoolyear. We are told not to startour bus until the bus ahead ofus begins leaving. Someonecomes to my bus and tells methat Linda has run into thebus in front of her and the onebehind her. I get everyonetogether and tell them not tosay a word, that we need thebuses at KH. Linda will loseher bus license as well as herdriver’s license. Linda went onto drive the bus and no onetold on her. I doubt she everhas gotten a ticket. Sometimeswe need a second chance andsometimes things shouldn’t betalked about until a later day.”

A SNEAK PEAK ATHOMECOMING 2012!Plans are being made now foranother fun-filled Home-coming on Saturday, July 7,and Sunday, July 8. Mark yourcalendars now and plan toattend. Alumnus Mike Robbins

and his band will play againfor us in the gym on Saturdayafternoon. Alumnus DorisHartley Powers will teachSunday School on Sundaya.m. During Sunday worshipat the church, Mike Robbinswill also bless us by leadingthe special music and singing acouple of his songs from hisgospel CD. Mike is also askingthat any alumni or familymembers who would like tojoin him in taking part in thespecial music by either singinga song or playing an instru-ment, to contact him as soonas possible at 252-291-0466.

The 2012 Homecomingletters will be mailed outsometime in June. If youraddress has changed since lastyear’s Homecoming, pleasemake sure I have your updatedinformation so that you willreceive a Homecoming letterthis year. Contact me soon sothat I can update our alumniaddress directory. Also, belowis a list of alumni whoseHomecoming letters werereturned last year. If you knowthe new addresses of any ofthese folks, please let meknow: Andy Anderoli, Frances(Adams) (Tweekie) D a v i d s o n ,J e f f G a r ve y, Barbara (Wilkins)Glazier, N a n c y ( J o h n s e n )( C o c o ) Hobbs, Delores(Marks) H o r t o n , S u s i eH u g h e s , J a n e t H o l l o w a y,D a v i d Jones, Rebecca (Becky)Jones, William R. Jones, EarlKirkman, Gwendolyn M e l t o n ,J i m m y M o o r e , Virginia(Atkins) Proctor, L o r e t t aS t a n t o n , D a v i d Williams.

DEATHS OF KH ALUM-NI/FORMER STAFF: Thefollowing alumni have passedaway in the past severalmonths. Due to lack of spacein this column, I will not beable to provide full obituaryinformation about each.

Tim Mills (1953-1967)died Saturday, January 14,2012 in Weaverville, NC atthe age of 64. Tim was a vet-eran of the U.S. Navy, an avid

woodworker, and a musician.Surviving are his wife of 22years, Patricia Tweed Mills,son T. J. Mills of Asheville,daughters Donna Mills andMichelle both of Asheville,and a sister Jeannette Rogersof Candler, NC.

Zeb Smith (1970-1989)died Monday, January 23,2012. Zeb worked with theKennedy Home Farm Pro-gram and at the dairy from9/15/70 thru 8/28/89.Zeb enjoyed work ing atKennedy Home and had agreat love and appreciation forthe children he knew andworked on the farm with.

He was also an avid hunterand cherished time with hisfamily. He is survived by a daughter and two sons.

Jones Pender (1982-2012)died Friday, February 10,2012. Jones, along with hiswife Dolores, moved toLenoir County in 1982 whenthey answered the Lord’s callby t ak ing pos i t ions a tKennedy Home. He began hiscareer as a childcare workerand then worked in the main-tenance department. He issurvived by his wife of 51years Dolores Hawley Pender,four children and eightgrandchi ldren. Memorialsmay be made to First Mission-ary Baptist Church, 201North Caswell St., La Grange,NC 28551.

Hazel Bishop Treatraine(1930-1943) Hazel’s twinbrother Hally Bishop calledme this evening (3/9/12) totell me that his sister diedJuly 2011 at the age of 87.Hally currently lives in Ocala,Florida. His address is: 3910Northwest 22nd Avenue,Ocala, FL 34479. Phone:352-622-9860.)

KENNEDY HOME ALUMNI COLUMN

Alum Kept Snakein Cottage Window______________________________________________________________

By Donna Weeks Duty110 Angora Court, Cary, NC 27513(919) 244-0920 donnaduty1017@yahoo.com

Donna Duty cameto Kennedy Home in1967. She graduatedhigh school and left BCH in 1974. Today she lives in Cary.

May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 Charity & Children 11http://groups.yahoo.com/group/kennedyhomealumni

1. Western Area FamilyServices 828.627.9254 Linda Morgan, Regional Dir. Broyhill HomeDrake Cottage Moody HomeTruett Baptist Assoc. Home

2. Central Area FamilyServices 336.474.1200 Lynn Garner, Regional Dir. Mills Home Care House Oak Ranch

3. Eastern Area FamilyServices 252.522.0811 Sandy Perry, Regional Dir. Kennedy HomeOdum Home Britton Ministries

4. Cameron Boys Camp 910.245.4034 Tim Gibson, Director

5. Camp Duncan 910.944.3077 Paul Daley, Director

Weekday Education Thomasville, 336.474.1201 Linda Russo, Director

Developmental Disabilities Ministry 336.474.1261Martha Surratt, Director

North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry336-474-1221Dr. Sandy Gregory, Directorwww.ncbam.org

Calling All State Employees!Designate BCH as your charity of choice in the State EmployeesCombined Campaign. Our SECC code is 3641. Encourage others to do thesame and better the lives of childrenand families in North Carolina.# 3 6 4 1

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

12 Charity & Children May 2012 Volume 125 No. 4 More Homeword at www.bchfamily.org/about/homeword

Baptist Children’sHomes – “North

Carolina’s largest family” –provides only the highestquality of care through ahighly trained, skilled,Christian staff whose personal and professionalmission is “helping hurtingchildren. . .healing brokenfamilies.”

Can BCH be of service to you or someone youknow?

Can we be of service to you or someone you know?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 NCSouth Hampton Roads CFC

(Camden, Chowan, Currituck,Dare, Gates, Hertford,Pasquotank, and PerquimansCounties and Albemarle andElizabeth City)

Ithought after having my first child, havinganother would be a piece of cake. But I was

mistaken.A midnight arrival at the hospital brought

a period of waiting. The waiting ended abruptlywith a mad rush. The maternity nurses preppedquickly and the doctor made it to the deliveryroom just in time to put on a blue surgery gownand hat, plastic gloves and reach to catch ournew born (literally).

“It’s a little girl!” the doctor proclaimed.Everything happened so quickly. But in the

midst of it all, time for me almost stopped. Mymind like in slow motion pondered the futureand the day I would place my little girl’s hand in the hand of another to whom she wouldpledge herself.

“What’s wrong, Jim?” Kathy whispers noticingthe distant expression on my face.

I bend low to kiss Kathy. “Oh, nothing.”Since then, I have had the exact experience

twice more – at the births of my two otherdaughters.

Futilely attempting to put off the inevitable, I told each of my daughters that there was nevera need for any other man in their lives – that I was their daddy and all they ever needed. Thatwas good only until they reached the age of fiveor six.

When they reached junior high age I forbadethem from having any interest in boys and toldthem dating was out of the question. That

workedonly until I walked from the room.

In high school, I changed strategy and focusedon intimidating the boys. I required an interestedsuiter to come to our home and meet Kathy andme. I greeted the young man at the door andextended my hand, offering the firmest hand-shake in my repertoire.

I remember my daughter leaving on dateswhile I stood at the door with Kathy to wave.While she smiled and blew a kiss to our daughter,I scowled at the young men just for the effect.

But the day Mark came to our home withAmie, I began to realize my delivery day premo-nition would be unavoidable.

Scripture teaches that there is a time for everything and a season for every activity underthe sun. There is a time to be born, a time tolaugh, a time to dance, a time to embrace. . .and a time to let your child go.

Five years of dating, a year’s engagement, andmonths of wedding planning culminates in oneday – March 26.

Amie and Mark’s wedding day arrives.The small church perched on a hill overlook-

ing spring-green pastures begins to fill. The coolbreeze causes Amie’s veil to flutter as she takesher place beside me on the church’s porch. Thelace of her gown and the beautiful bouquet of

white daisies, a hydrangea, and baby’sbreath are quintessential Amie.

I am told that young girls imaginetheir wedding days from an early age.From my experience with Amie’s wed-ding planning, this bride had definiteideas: small church, bright blue bride’sshoes, a Monday for the wedding day.

The service begins. Mark and hisgroomsmen take their place. The brides-

maids standing before us enter to music.Momentarily, the organ stops. Amie and

I wait for our cue. The music swells. Guests stand.

With Amie on my arm, we walk togetherdown the center aisle; we turn and smile at eachother as we reach the front. I extend a welcom-ing hand to Mark and shake his hand. Then Itake Amie’s hand from my arm, and holding it, Iplace it into Mark’s hand – exactly as I imagined.

I constantly remind myself that change isinevitable. And as I have learned, my efforts toavert change is a waste of time and energy.

But, I celebrate in the knowledge that God is in control. And in the midst of change, I amcomforted in knowing He never changes.

Change brings new promise and purpose. It is from a spirit of change that all was created –heaven and earth, man and woman, a little baby girl.

God has a purpose in what He does, even if we have a hard time understanding.

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who loveGod, to those who are called according to His

purpose.” May God bless Amie and Mark

for all time!

HOMEWORD

There’s A TimeFor Everything__________________________________________________

By W. James (Jim) Edminson, Editor

Edminson is editor of Charity & Children and writes“Homeword” to inspire and encourage families in themidst of full lives and hectic schedules.