Read about how God made a way for Foster Care &Adoption on PAGE 14! this familythrough HOPE
Americus • Columbus • Macon
St. Marys • Valdosta
Ms. Alison E. Evans President / CEO
Mrs. Jill C. Myers Executive Vice President
Mrs. Robin Trantham VP / Operations
Dr. Jeffery Lawrence VP / Programs and Services
Mrs. Jill Stapleton VP / Clinical Services
Mr. Bruce Stanfield VP / Finance
Mr. Lonnie Bivins VP / Facilities
Mrs. April Mouton Beal Chief Development Officer
Mrs. Caroline Edenfield CEO / The Foundation of The Methodist Home
Our girls in Americus getting ready for spring by planting flowers!
TRUSTEE EMERITUS
Rev. Lynn Meadows-White VP / Church Relations
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Ms. Hannah Allen
Rev. Jim Davis
Rev. Teresa Edwards
Mrs. Merita Evans
Mr. Frank Gaudry (Treasurer & Finance Chair)
Dr. Ben Gosden
Mr. David Green (Secretary)
Mrs. Toni Gregory (Development Chair)
Rev. Kirk Hagan
Mr. Brent Hampton (Property Chair)
Mrs. Eugenia Henderson
Rep. Penny Houston
Ms. Cheryl King
Dr. Stan Littleton (Chair)
Rev. Mark Magoni
Mr. Max Manack
Mrs. Elaine Ruckel
Mrs. Karen C. Shockley (Children & Family Services Chair)
Rev. Lee Smith
Mrs. Jan Tripp (Personnel Chair)
Mrs. Julie Vann
Mrs. Staci G. Vickers (Vice Chair & Nominations Chair)
Dr. John A. Walker
Senator Larry Walker, III
Mrs. Loida Waters
Rev. Reggie Williams
GUEST OBSERVERS
Mrs. Frankie Evans
Dr. Joe Holler
Mrs. Ellen Holler
PROGRAMS:
Mr. John “Johnny “ C. Walker, III
EX OFFICIO TRUSTEES
Mrs. Caroline Edenfield
Bishop David Graves
Dr. Scott Hagen
Dr. Laudis H. “Rick” Lanford
Dr. Paula Lewis
Mr. Russell Lipford
Mr. C.L. Neville (Alumni President)
Rev. Doreen Smalls
BOARD ATTORNEY
Mrs. Cater C. Thompson
EDITOR
Nancy Abarca
MISSION STATEMENT
In response to Christ and the Church, the mission of The Methodist Home is to be a model agency that restores childhoods, strengthens families and cultivates a people-building organization.
CIVIL RIGHTS STATEMENT
We accept children and youth regardless of race, color, creed, national origin or religious background.
The Methodist Home is an equal opportunity employer and provider.
SEND CORRESPONDENCE TO:
The Methodist Home
P.O. Box 2525 • 304 Pierce Avenue 31204 Macon, Georgia 31203 - 2525
Email: Information@TheMethodistHome.org
ACCREDITATIONS:
To comply with privacy expectations put in place by the state of Georgia, The Methodist Home will no longer have identifiable pictures of our DFCS children in our magazine. We have also changed the names of many of our children in the magazine to protect their privacy. We appreciate your support and understanding.
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The Methodist Home for Children Issue 1 Volume 46 © 2024
"GUARD THE GOOD DEPOSIT..."
WITH THE HELP OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
“What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” ~ 2 Timothy 1:13-14 (NIV)
As we celebrate the graduation of our high school seniors and often continue to help them through the next steps of their lives, I pray they “keep the pattern of sound teaching” we have deposited in them. I know you join me in this hope!
Standing temporarily in the role of a parent or caregiver, we have an abiding concern for their well-being. At the same time, we want to see them spring forth and succeed with a sense of independence and self-sufficiency. Most of all, we hope they live a life rooted in the faith and love of Christ Jesus that reflects the patterns of sound teachings experienced at The Methodist Home. Candidly, we know not all will immediately soar into the next chapter of their lives. Some will fall and stumble…as did many of us in our younger days. But when those times of trials and tribulations are faced, our faithful commitment to them, aided by the power of the Holy Spirit, may be a deep reservoir from which they are empowered to learn and grow. With our collective prayers, we believe the Holy Spirit will help them guard the good deposit entrusted to them.
ALISON EVANS President/CEO, The Methodist Home
Every time you make a contribution to The Methodist Home, please consider it a “good deposit” in the future success of our boys and girls. Your kindness enables us to provide the guidance, sound teaching and support they need to succeed in life.
As Paul did with Timothy, we will continue to encourage our young people! Your support, by your prayers and your gifts, makes this possible. Thank you for always caring about and supporting YOUR Methodist Home!
Warmly,
Alison Evans, President/CEO
PS: Our ministry and Christian witness is more important than ever before. With your help, we can and will impact the next generation of young people. Please know we value and appreciate your investment in God’s children!
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Marqkel
Marqkel currently resides at The Carpenter’s Way Ranch near Columbus and is known among his peers and staff for his many talents. His musical skills are very impressive, as are the number of instruments he knows how to play. He is adept with the tenor and bass drums, guitar, violin, tuba, bells, xylophone, trumpet, baritone, and piano! Marqkel first learned to play the tuba in fourth grade and has been adding to his skillset ever since. He is presently part of his high school’s marching band. At the moment he favors playing the piano and enjoys classics like Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and Pachelbel’s Canon in D.
Cooking is another of Marqkel’s talents. His passion stems from when he was 10 years old and his grandmother began teaching him to cook, grill, bake, etc. Marqkel loves to prepare homemade dishes, especially southern “soul” food. Cooking is a form of art to Marqkel and he really enjoys experimenting and learning with every dish he makes.
Marqkel will be attending culinary school after graduation. He is, most of all, looking forward to studying French and Italian cuisines.
“it is not about how many times you fail, but how many times you get back up and become stronger because of your failure.”
Marqkel also wants to work as he pursues an education, preferably in food service to gain knowledge and experience towards his culinary goals.
As you may have gathered, Marqkel’s grandmother was a huge inspiration to him. She was a very musical person and loved to sing, especially in church. Today, Marqkel’s favorite part of attending church is worship. Music has helped him through some difficult times by giving him a form of expression, an outlet for his emotions. When Marqkel was battling with mental struggles he had to come to terms with things outside of his control. Music really helped him. “Even if you don’t understand music, you understand the feeling and I put everything I felt into music,” he shared.
God has also aided Marqkel through life’s hardships. “I look toward God in my times of trouble, I pray each morning, and I always keep my Bible close by,” he mentioned. Marqkel continues to seek a relationship with God. Even when things are not going great, he keeps faith. “God has worked a lot of miracles through me and with the experiences I’ve been through, I know he is always with me,” he expressed.
Marqkel has been in foster care for about five years and the most significant lesson he has learned is, “it is not about how many times you fail, but how many times you get back up and become stronger because of your failure.” Marqkel’s hunger for learning and his strength of character have helped him get back on his feet time and time again. Marqkel is a remarkable young man who has a bright future ahead of him.
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Ben is a youth served by our HOPE Foster Care & Adoption program and has been with his current foster family for about two years. Despite the challenges he has faced, the mantra that keeps Ben going is, “just stay calm and everything is going to be alright.” It is a saying and reminder that has served him well. Today, Ben finds himself captain of his high school’s football team. It’s an accomplishment he is very proud of as he finishes up his senior year.
In 8th grade Ben discovered his love of sports. What began with football, led to baseball, basketball, and running track. His coaches and teammates have become family, carrying him when life felt especially arduous. While Ben’s experiences haven’t always been easy, he continues to, “go with the flow.” Ben is looking forward to graduating high school and attending Central Georgia Technical College. Congratulations Ben!
Ben was crowned Homecoming King!
Amon is excited to be attending Kennesaw State University this coming fall. Amon never thought he would be accepted into college because of the challenges he faced. However, not only did he get into his college of choice, but was accepted into Georgia State University and Georgia Southern University as well! Amon cannot wait to begin his studies to become a nurse practitioner.
Before coming to The Methodist Home, Amon used to think all group homes were bad. He has come to realize this Home is a wonderful place. “While I’ve been here, I have become a better person. I am thriving,” he shared. Amon credits The Methodist Home for providing the structure he needed and helping build his character. We are so proud of the work Amon has done to reach his goals and dreams!
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Amon Ben
Legend was incredibly proud of himself when he earned his GED earlier this year. He was skeptical to try at first, but realized this accomplishment could open doors and gain opportunities for him. Legend had struggled in high school but the GED program allowed him to focus and go at his own pace. Moving forward, he is excited to start working and become a productive member of society. Legend is grateful for the family he has made at The Methodist Home. “Everyone at The Home helped and supported me, they are the reason I got my GED,” he shared. Congrats, Legend!
Ayden is looking forward to graduating. There was a time when he did not think he would succeed academically, but he has worked hard for his diploma despite his challenges. Ayden is excited to join the workforce soon. While The Methodist Home has provided the things he needed, he is excited to be able to sustain himself. Ayden is grateful for the many ways The Home has helped him. Congratulations, Ayden!
Alejandra is very excited to attend Middle Georgia State University this fall. She was absolutely ecstatic when she received notice of her acceptance and is looking forward to majoring in nursing. Alejandra is so grateful for the support The Methodist Home has given her over the two years she has been with us. Our EMBRACE program, Establishing Mother & Baby Relationships in an Affectionate and Caring Environment, provided Alejandra and her son, Allan, with the foundation they needed to excel. The guidance and love Alejandra and Allan have experienced here made all the difference. “The Methodist Home is the only family Allan knows, they are also my family,” Alejandra shared. We are so incredibly proud of her! Alejandra is a bright, responsible, and caring friend, student, and mother. There is no doubt she will continue to thrive and prosper!
Alejandra
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Ayden Legend
Sakina has been at The Methodist Home in our EMBRACE program for almost a year now. After Sakina quickly finished her GED, she immediately enrolled in classes at Central Georgia Technical College. She is currently enjoying studying cosmetology. Sakina is grateful for EMBRACE. Being in a safe environment with other young moms and a caring staff has helped her get to where she is now. “It is hard to be a young mom while trying to accomplish everything you need to do. But, it’s also a motivator, it pushes you to do the best you can,” Sakina shared. She is a bright young lady and a wonderful mother to her threeyear-old daughter. We are so proud of you, Sakina!
Heaven
Heaven is a truly inspiring young lady. Having only been at The Methodist Home a short time she immediately set out to get her GED. It was important to her and she quickly completed the program. Heaven is looking forward to joining the workforce this summer and is excited to begin summer semester classes at Central Georgia Technical College. She wants to pursue a career as a certified nursing assistant, as her grandmother once did. Heaven is also part of our EMBRACE program. Her son motivates her to keep moving forward even when it might seem difficult. “I have to give him a good life. I have to be successful so he doesn’t have to grow up without anything,” she shared. We are so proud of Heaven for all her hard work!
Takea has been at The Methodist Home for about a year, but has been in foster care since she was eight months old. Through all the ups and downs Takea has experienced, she has remained positive and hopeful. She has many interests in science, cosmetology, and business and is excited to see in what direction college will take her. As a young mom in our EMBRACE program, Takea has reflected a lot on how her daughter pushes her to be her best. “I want my daughter to have everything she needs. I have to keep going regardless of my circumstances, for my daughter,” she said. While her path has not always been easy, Takea is grateful for the person she is today. We are in awe of Takea’s resilience and strength!
Takea Sakina
This year we have four of our girls in our EMBRACE program who completed their GED or will be graduating high school. What an amazing feat for these young ladies to accomplish! They are not only paving a path to success for themselves but for their babies as well. Congratulations!
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Coastal Matching Gift Challenge Capital Needs List
Earlier this year we were awestruck by the generosity of a donor from coastal Georgia. As he flipped through our 2023 Winter Gateway, our Capital Needs List caught his attention. He offered to match (dollar for dollar) every gift we received for our list up to $100,000!
At the start of 2024 we kicked off the Coastal Matching Gift Challenge. Because of your kindness and faithful giving, we quickly surpassed our goal!
THANK YOU so much to everyone who took on this challenge and contributed to help us with these needs.
For over 150 years children, families, and individuals continue to be served by our mission – to restore childhoods and strengthen families. As we live into our mission, it is important to us to maintain the places where we provide these needed services. We could not do this important work without YOU!
We have made several inquiries to foundations for additional support. If you would like to be a part of this effort, please mark your gift for the coastal challenge. Thank you!
8 TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024 MACON CAMPUS Burden Chapel Renovations ................................... $75,000 Appliances (4 @$800 ea.) ............................ FUNDED $3,200 Paint Cottage Interior ................................. FUNDED $8,000 Vehicle for Administrative Travel ............................ $45,000 Commercial Kitchen Reach-in Freezer & Fridge ....... $10,000 Vans for Cottages (2 @ $60,000 ea.) ....................... $120,000 Replace Laminate Flooring in Cottage ....... FUNDED $20,000 Generators for Cottages (6 @ $45,000 ea.) ............ $270,000 Replace Deck on Social Services Building . FUNDED $15,000 Living Room Furniture for Cottages ......... FUNDED $16,000 Cottage Furniture Various Needs ................ FUNDED $5,000 Paint Exterior Trim of Cottage ................... FUNDED $20,000 MACON TOTAL ...................................$520,000 COLUMBUS CAMPUS Landscaping ............................................................. $10,000 Paint Interior Smith-Coleman Cottage ....... FUNDED $8,000 Remodel Cottage-Convert to Visitation Center .................... ................................................ PARTIALLY FUNDED $100,000 Storage Shed ............................................... FUNDED $6,000 COLUMBUS TOTAL ............................ . $110,000 ST. MARYS CAMPUS Storage Shed ............................................... FUNDED $5,000 Van for Cottage FUNDED $60,000 ST. MARYS TOTAL ......................................... $0 VALDOSTA CAMPUS Paint Exterior of Regional Office ................. FUNDED $7,000 Upgrade Landscaping ................................. FUNDED $2,000 VALDOSTA TOTAL ....................................... . $0 AMERICUS CAMPUS Repave Driveway and Parking Spaces …FUNDED $20,000 Landscaping/Tree Clearing ......................... FUNDED $6,000 AMERICUS TOTAL .......................................... $0 LIGHTHOUSE FOR FAMILIES Transport Vehicle for Columbus (2 @ $40,000 ea.) ... $80,000 LIGHTHOUSE FOR FAMILIES TOTAL ..... $80,000 ORGANIZATION TOTAL ..................... $710,000
Erin Finds Courage at Lighthouse for Families
Erin has been going to Lighthouse for Families Community Counseling Services for about two years now. The path to therapy was not an easy one for Erin. She had been let down by previous counselors, which led to a lot of anger and aversion. No longer feeling she could trust others, Erin stopped seeking counseling. Still, Erin wanted to continue to grow and get better for herself and her children. When she began going to Lighthouse for Families she talked about things at a surface level. Fear and distrust were very present in her mind at first, but slowly dissipated. Erin’s counselor accepted her hesitance but was still able to coax what she needed to help her. Eventually, Erin began to feel more comfortable and felt like she was just talking to a friend. “It was a style that definitely worked better for me. I did not feel judged,” she shared.
What Erin loves most about her counselor is she doesn’t speak in therapist jargon. The lessons and skills she has learned can be applied to her everyday life. Growing up, Erin was not taught any coping skills. But therapy has given her many different healthy options she didn’t even know existed. It opened her eyes to a whole
new world. For example, one of Erin’s counselors suggested crafting. She was quite disillusioned by this idea, but to her surprise Erin began to enjoy knitting and looming baby and adult hats. Can you guess what everyone got for Christmas that year?
Another coping strategy Erin favors is the 24-hour rule. When something happens or someone says or does something you disagree with, you don’t immediately react. The waiting period gives time to process the emotions. Erin was amazed by how her perspective could change after giving an issue or problem some distance and time. Something she has passed down to her children is teaching them an emotion is like a wave. When it comes, you are going to have to go ahead and feel it and ride it up to the worst point. But then you start to come down and you put it behind you. Whereas if you do things that will block you from feeling that emotion, it will never leave. For Erin, it is important her children learn how to respond to life’s hardships and challenges. She is so grateful to be able to pass this knowledge on to her kids. “Even if I did not have any problems, it has been helpful to talk to my counselor about the little daily things. I am at a very peaceful place in my life now, but I continue to go to Lighthouse for Families because it is how I take care of myself. It is almost like having an older sibling who already knows how to navigate life,” Erin shared. She believes everyone should have the toolkit to deal with the little and big things in life. Lighthouse makes that possible for her and she knows it can be possible for others. Not everyone has the best experience with their first counselor or therapy session. But Erin is so grateful she found the courage to give it another chance. We are honored to provide the opportunity to learn, heal and grow to the children, families, and individuals in our community!
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From Doubt to Devotion
Peyton has been in foster care since she was 12 years-old. You can only imagine how she tried to tirelessly make sense of the chaos she experienced. How many times did she ask herself “Why is this happening?” as one often does when it feels like the world they live in is falling apart. Yet, in the moments Peyton felt most alone and afraid, she would sing worship songs. One of her favorites is “Praise You Anywhere” by Brandon Lake. The lyrics, “sing through the fire, praise when it don’t make sense,” taught Peyton to sing through the fire.
When Peyton was younger she had never heard of God. When she was finally introduced, she was skeptical to say the least. After all, if there was a God, where had He been all this time? When Peyton’s eyes were finally opened to the gospel, she realized God had always been with her. At every group home and foster home, He had always been right by her side. Despite her newfound belief, Peyton’s hardships would lead to doubt and discouragement. Still, she held on to her faith because she wanted a relationship with God.
Since then, she has had some realizations. “If you want to have God in your life, you have to pull your weight in the relationship. He gives us the Bible and songs to help us better ourselves, but you have to do your part,” she shared. “When I didn’t do my part, I would be miserable and become depressed. It felt like I was stuck in a pit I would never climb out of and everything felt horrible.” Now,
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Peyton’s favorite mug and daily reminder to PRAY!
Peyton stays in the word of God. She reads her Bible, looks forward to Bible study, and listens to worship music constantly. Most importantly, she prays. If Peyton feels like she’s going to do something bad, she talks to God. “God, help me think about what I’m about to do. Help me know what to say, don’t let me be fast to anger and let me be patient,” she prays.
One of Peyton’s favorite stories in the Bible is one she learned from Pastor Lynn Meadow-White during a Bible study. The Parable of the Lost Son in Luke made Peyton feel like she was almost reading her own story. “The son left home and when he was ready to come back his father welcomed him back with open arms. God is our father and He welcomes us back with open arms every time,” she explained.
Peyton knows God will always be there for her and we know God will always be there for Peyton. We cannot wait to see how Peyton continues to grow in her faith!
12th
12TH ANNUAL HOME RUN 5K
Benefitting
The Methodist Home Americus Campus
Saturday, June 1, 2024
7:00 A.M
First Methodist Church in Americus, GA
Registration is open!
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Annual Home Run 5K
Peyton loves reading the Word of God!
Overcoming Barriers,
In the late 90’s, Ian arrived at The Methodist Home in Macon after enduring an unstable journey through foster care. Despite carrying the weight of despair on his shoulders, he was able to discover and embrace hope once again through the support and mission of The Home. Today, he stands tall as a field tech engineer in north Georgia, a testament to the transformative power of the love and guidance he received during his time at The Methodist Home.
Ian graduated from Central High School. He then laid the groundwork for his future by enrolling at Georgia Military College and joining the National Guard. Yet, it was his experiences at The Methodist Home that truly shaped his path. At times, Ian grappled with mixed emotions during his stay. On one hand, he had a deep appreciation for his caring staff and his days were filled with exciting activities and opportunities. Ian fondly remembers spending summer days at the basketball court, having flag football tournaments, and playing soccer. While he cherishes those memories, he also recalls struggling with feelings of frustration and longing for a sense of normalcy. Ian yearned for the independence his school mates seemed to effortlessly enjoy. He now understands the importance of patience and perseverance that was so difficult to grasp as a child. After graduation, Ian’s journey was not without its hurdles. Little did he know; The Methodist Home had been preparing him all along. Our Independent Living Program equipped him with the tools he needed to navigate the complexities
of adulthood. Ian is so grateful for the mock job interviews, the lessons in writing a resume, and even learning how to properly fill out a job application. The financial knowledge bestowed to him on budgeting and saving have aided him in getting where he is today. He even appreciates the simple value of doing chores as it transitioned to him keeping a tidy and organized household. Through it all, The Methodist Home provided Ian with invaluable guidance, teaching him important life skills, instilling in him the value of financial responsibility, and most importantly, fostering discipline.
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Thank you for serving our country, Ian!
Ian’s Path to Success
Ian’s early days at The Home were difficult. He was depressed and didn’t have the will to keep going forward. But with the support of The Methodist Home, he emerged stronger and more resilient than ever before. Mentors and caregivers provided Ian with a sense of stability and security. Meeting with the pastor during that time, led Ian toward a path of healing and redemption. The Home’s emphasis on faith and morality provided him with purpose and direction. Beyond the practical skills and knowledge he gained, Ian’s spiritual journey brought him salvation. At fourteen years old he was baptized.
Fast forward to early October 2022. Ian reached a significant milestone in his life—he bought a house! It was a momentous occasion, symbolizing not just a new chapter in his story, but also evidence to the resilience and determination that has carried him through the years.
Ian found his perfect home!
As Ian reflects on his journey, he is filled with gratitude for The Methodist Home and all those who believed in him along the way. Without their guidance and support, Ian knows he wouldn’t be where he is today—a homeowner, working a successful job and most importantly, a believer in Christ. Ian’s testimony serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of our mission –restoring childhoods, strengthening families, and building people. We know no matter how daunting the journey may seem, with faith and perseverance, anything is possible. And for Ian, The Methodist Home will always hold a special place in his heart—a beacon of hope and healing that helped him find his way home.
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God Makes A Way Through HOPE Foster Care & Adoption!
Jay Burgess, his wife Michele, and their daughter Lindsay were sharing a meal after church on a Sunday afternoon when his phone rang. Little did Jay know he was actually answering God’s call and their lives were about to change forever.
Kayci was eight months old when she went into the care of the Division of Family & Children Services. A few days later Kayci met her grandparents for the first time. Because of family circumstances, Jay and Michele had never known their granddaughter. They very enthusiastically jumped at the opportunity to finally get to meet her. At first sight, there was an instant connection between Kayci and Michele. “She knew in that moment she was safe now,” Michele shared.
Those first few days were just the beginning to the long and fruitful path God had laid out for the Burgess family. A path where He would walk alongside them every step of the way. As the family looks back on those early days in reflection, they are left in awe of the miracles they witnessed and the serendipity they experienced at God’s hand.
Michele and her daugher, Lindsay, went for a tuberculin skin test appointment at their local health department. It was one of the many steps they needed to complete for adoption certification. As fate would have it, Michele got the date of their appointment wrong. While there, they met a woman who was also going through the certification process. They made some brief small talk, a conversation you would not think would amount to much.
About a week later, Michele and Lindsay went to see a new hairdresser. As they got to talking, they learned their hairdresser had been adopted. She began sharing her story and mentioned her sister-in-law was an attorney for children services. Her sister
worked right next door to the salon. On their way out, Michele noticed a woman walking into an office next to the salon. It was the same woman they had met at the health department. Following their gut, Michele and Lindsay turned back around to speak to her and found out she was, indeed, the lawyer precisely with the expertise they needed. From that point on, she represented the Burgess family. “God closed and opened the right doors for us,” Michele shared. He did so time and time again and it was exactly how they ended up at HOPE Foster Care & Adoption. When the Burgess’ began their certification process they flew through the heavy paperwork they had been handed. However,
Lindsay loves being a big “sissy,” as Kayci affectionately calls her!
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along with the paperwork, IMPACT classes had to be completed. It is a training program used to prepare prospective foster and adoptive families. It was in search of those classes
Michele would find HOPE. “I am so thankful we got to work with HOPE, everyone was just so helpful, kind, and all around genuine,” Michele
From the beginning of their journey, the Burgess family has had an abundance of support and people praying for them. While the certification process was not always easy, God made a way. Along that way, the Burgess’ experienced lessons and blessings in the waiting, they just had to hold on! On December 22, 2023 Kayci was officially adopted!
It was plain to see Kayci was where she needed to be and everyone worked together for the sole purpose of protecting her and giving her the home she deserved. “Everything that has happened from that phone call on that fateful Sunday afternoon up to now, we have asked ourselves every step of the way ‘what is best for Kayci’,” Jay shared. Now three years old, Kayci is flourishing. She has brought so
much life and laughter into their home. Her family has filled her with their love and God’s love. As this family celebrates Kayci, we are reminded of God’s loving plan for each of the children we serve!
Kayci is energetic and sweet with a wonderful imagination. She loves dressing up and most of all she loves attending church!
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The Burgess family on adoption day!
As budding flowers sprout, the days grow warmer and the trees begin to thicken with greenery. Nature announces the arrival of spring. As the new season emerges, I think of our children. Much like a seed, we give our youth a good and stable environment where they can grow. We feed, pour into and nurture them. But, most importantly, we help tend to their souls and mend their broken hearts.
Jacob* recently visited our campus while he was on a holiday break from college. While here, he shared with me how grateful he was for his time at The Methodist Home. He told me about his life and the adversity he faced at a young age. Jacob deserved the innocence and joy of a childhood. Instead, he experienced hardships no child should ever have to encounter. But, he found hope with us. The Home gave him the opportunity to heal and provided him with a new outlook on life.
As Jacob shared his story, I could see the moments where God had been at work in his life. I could see the path that led him to The Methodist Home. Because of God’s love, our mission, and YOUR faithful giving, Jacob’s childhood was restored.
It warms my heart to see Jacob guide and care for our current residents when he visits The Home now. He is sowing his own seeds of love and hope into our children. Will you help Jacob and all of us here at The Methodist Home continue this critical work for the sake of our youth? We need your support now more than ever!
Your gift has the power to cultivate a garden that can help children grow for generations to come! A thoughtful donation can change a child’s life. Partner with us and give kids like Jacob a warm bed, nutritious meals, caring adults, and a chance to have the childhood they deserve. Help our girls and boys grow towards a bright future. Please support God’s children now through your generosity!
Warmly, Alison Evans President/ CEO
P.S. When you see flowers start to bloom, remember our youth and how your kindness helps take care of those we serve. They cannot bloom without you –
THANK YOU!
Donate, please send us your gift in the enclosed envelope or visit www.TheMethodistHome.org or by scanning the QR code to give now! *Name changed for privacy 16 TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024
To
DINNER & A SHOW
Featuring, Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute Band
Saturday, April 20, 2024
The Methodist Home
Macon, GA
EVENING OF HOPE
Featuring Director, and Actor
Alex Kendrick
Thursday, October 3, 2024
The Methodist Home
Macon, GA
GIVING CHILDHOOD A CHANCE Fundraiser Luncheon
Featuring Head Football Coach of the University of Georgia, Kirby Smart
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Bibb Mill • Columbus, GA
TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024 17 SAVE THE DATE!
MORE INFO AT WWW.THEMETHODISTHOME.ORG! SOLDOUT!
Our girls and boys served their community with giving hearts on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!
Our girls in Valdosta had a wonderful time at the Coppage Christmas Tree Farm. They experienced a candy cane hunt through the tree farm and picked out their very own Christmas tree to take back to their home.
Our youth had so much fun at a Macon Mayhem hockey game! One of our own residents was invited to sing the National Anthem!
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Our kids at Eagle’s Nest Children’s Center had a sweet time celebrating Valentine’s Day!
Our boys at The Carpenter’s Way Ranch experienced an Auburn game!
The Carpenter’s Way Ranch held a chili cookoff with friends from Midland UMC!
Our kids in Macon worshiped God as they sang along to Christian Christmas music performed by Matt Maher and We The Kingdom.
TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024 19
The United Methodist Women’s group from Pinson Memorial Methodist Church gave a kind donation from a quilt drawing they had at their church!
Cochran FMC were generous by providing presents for our girls and boys!
The Tuesday Morning Quilters blessed our children with some beautiful quilts. Thank you for thinking of our girls and boys!
Our friends from Central GA Association of Motorcyclists did a Benefit Bike Ride to our Macon campus and provided gift cards and Bibles for all our youth. Thank you for having a heart for our children!
The kind folks at WCH Homes delivered Christmas gifts for our youth and treated them to a pizza party! Thank you for making lasting memories for our children!
Abundant Life Church and their kid’s ministry made Christmas care packages for our youth!
Midland UMC presented Rev. Lynn Meadows-White with a check for The Methodist Home — proceeds from their Christmas Craft Fair. Thank you so much for supporting and caring for our youth!
The Macon alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. donated items to support Prevailing Woman Ministries, Inc. in blessing our teen girls!
Fort Valley Methodist Church delivered their annual gift to our children. In honor of the late, Mr. J.G. "Buster" Beck, who passed away last year at 99 years of age – and on behalf of his Sunday School class –each youth received a Christmas gift to continue his 30+ year tradition. We are honored and truly grateful for this legacy of love continued by Buster’s friends and daughter, Pat.
Alison Evans, CEO/President with Ray Singleton who completed a solo 30-day canoe trip down the Chattahoochee River to raise funds for various mission projects, including The Methodist Home!
20 TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024
Hinesville First United Methodist blessed our girls and boys with over 150 handmade Christmas stockings! Each one was prayed over by their preschool and kindergarten children.
Griggers Wealth Management in Macon provided presents for our kids Christmas!
Hopewell Methodist delivered gift cards for our children!
Mercer Black Law Student Association blessed our children with Christmas presents!
Waynesboro First Methodist Church delivered Christmas gifts for our children. We are so grateful for your continuous support!
Our friends at Buckhorn Methodist have been delivering cookies and singing carols for about 40 years! We are blessed by this faithful and loving church family.
Macon Mayhem held a toy and toiletry drive for our girls and boys!
AT&T Macon Telecom Pioneers blessed our children with cupcakes and cards. Thank you for reminding them they are loved!
Our children were blessed with Christmas gifts from Sandersville UMC!
Robins Air Force Base held a Christmas donation drive for our girls and boys!
We are thankful for our talented friends at Wynnton Methodist who made Christmas pillowcases for our boys at The Carpenter’s Way Ranch. Pam and Bob Gilstrap delivered these wonderful gifts for our kids!
Perry United Methodist Women gave a generous donation for our children!
TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024 21
CELEBRATIONS & TRIBUTES
ANNIVERSARIES (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
BARBARA & HUGH LAWSON
Mr. & Mrs. David Cannon
TRENT & SHANNA MCADAMS
Charles & Jeanette McAdams
60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY OF REV. & MRS. IKE POWELL
Florrie P. Crapps
60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY OF JIMMY & LINDA WALTON
Jackie Wilson
RETIREMENTS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
BARBARA LAWSON
Lynn Harper
BIRTHDAYS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
TAMMY BEAVET
Karen Price
JAMES BIRDSALL
Bette Evans
BARBARA DURVIN
Cathy & Hunter Durvin
TED DURVIN
Cathy & Hunter Durvin
JACKIE DUSLEY
Karen Price
QUINN GARIN
Kimberly Casto
SANDRA HAGA
Ann Lanter
HONOR GIFTS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
REVS. ROBERT & CAROLYN ABRAMS
Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner
JANE ADAMS
Margaret Smith
MR. & MRS. JIM ADAMS
Robert & Ginger Stribling
HANNAH ALLEN
Carol Ann Trible
JOHN ANDERSON
Ben, Holly, Daniel & Robert Anderson
LINA ARNOLD
Debbie Arnold
MR. & MRS. RICKY ARNOLD
Billie & Jim Gatewood
MR. & MRS. RALPH BAGGS & ANNIE
Steve & Pam Creech
KEN & MARY JEAN BANTER
Ann Lanter
CURTIS S. BARNES
James Dominy
MRS. CAROLYN BARRY
Evelyn Trimble
APRIL MOUTON BEAL
Brown & Kathryn Dennis
Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Waldrop
TAMMY BEAVER
Jenifer Amos
ED BECK
Rev. Jon Beck
MRS. LEE BELL
Pat & Frank Horne
ANDREW & BRITTANY BENNETT
Claire Chapman
LARRY & SUSAN BENNETT
Emily Pritchett
MR. & MRS. JAMES BERG, JR.
Robert & Ginger Stribling
REV. R.T. & MRS. HAILEY BEVERLY, ATLAS & ROSIE
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
THE LAMAR BLACK FAMILY
Dr. William Acton
MR. & MRS. ROGER BLACK
Dr. William Acton
MR. & MRS. JIMMY BLANCHARD
Ginger & Larry Harper
JORGE & RANDI BONILLA
Harriet Smith
MS. CAROLYN BOWEN
Dr. Robert Bowman M.D.
BRAD BOYD
Thomas Boyd
MR. & MRS. WENDELL BRANNEN
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Giddens
WENDY BRANNEN
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Giddens
MICHELLE BRIDGES
Claire Chapman
MR. & MRS. TOMMY BRIDGES
Dr. Ron M. Hudson
BILL & VERONICA BROOKS
Mrs. Carolyn Barry
JENNY BROOKS
Rebecca Brooks
JOSEPH BULLARD
Cecil & Betty Ethridge
MR. & MRS. GENE BURLESON
Robert & Ginger Stribling
MR. & MRS. GARY D. BUSSELL
Connie S. Norris
TOMMY & DEBORAH CAIN
Polly Tompkins
LT. GEN. & MRS. WILLIAM
CALDWELL IV
Dr. Ron M. Hudson
BETTE J. CALLAWAY
Wendell Helton
ERNIE & LARA CARLTON & FAMILY
Charles & Martha Flanders
BETTY ANN CARSWELL
Anne W. Kirkland
GLEN CARSWELL
Anne W. Kirkland
AARON CARTER
Charles & Martha Flanders
KEVIN & JANETTE CARTER
Charles & Martha Flanders
KYLE & DONNA CARTER
Charles & Martha Flanders
AVIRETT & JOE CARTWRIGHT
Charles & Millie Adams
JONNA & ROB CARTWRIGHT
Charles & Millie Adams
MR. & MRS. WILLIAM CASSIDY
Ann M. Stewart
MR. & MRS. RICKY CHADWICK
Mr. & Mrs. Verlin Jones
DR. EDWIN CHASE
Nancy C. Barnwell
Mr. Drew Ernst
Bill Lewis
Fredrick L. Muller
Katie Wintzer
SID & PEGGY CHEATHAM
Polly Tompkins
THE CHILDREN AT THE METHODIST
HOME
Elmer & Anne Allen
CHILDREN & GRANDCHILDREN
Mr. Marshall W. Grace, Jr.
DR. & MRS. HORACE CHITTY
Robbie Faust
OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST
Greg McNeil
Jenkin Pauldhass
MARTHA & GEORGE CHRISTIAN
Beverly Collins
WENDELL R. CLARK
Christine M. Clark
SHARI CLIFTON
Will Clifton
Mary Ann Quigley
Jimmy & Janeil Adams
JOHN & LUCY COCHRAN
Marcia Cochran
BRADY MCADAMS
Charles & Jeanette McAdams
CHARLES MCADAMS
Jeanette McAdams
DOROTHY MCLENDON’S
99TH BIRTHDAY
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald H. Rentz
CAROLINE MAE PARKER
Cynthia M. Parker
JANICE PUCKETT
Steve & Pam Creech
NEAL TALTON
Cully Talton
MARCIA COCHRAN
Lucy Cochran
David Cochran Family
DR. SIDNEY & MRS. CAROL COCHRAN
Marcia Cochran
JOSH & GINA COLE
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Cole
CHARLES, DEBBIE, DAVID & JIM
COLEMAN
Charles & Martha Flanders
JAN COOK
Charles & Martha Flanders
REV. DR. BUDDY COOPER, JR.
Ronald West
JUDGE RICHARD COWART
Mr. & Mrs. James Godbee, Jr.
REV. TONY & MRS. LISA CROSBY
Raymond & Peggy King
CHRISTINE M. CRUSE
Claire Chapman
MR. & MRS. ROBERT CULPEPPER
Connie S. Norris
DOUG DAVIS
Julie Peche
JOEL & JOYCE DENT
James & Nancy Stinson
MARY EVELYN DENT
J-Pa & J-Ma Dent
DFCS SNAP FIELD PROGRAM
SPECIALIST
Virginia Davidson
KATHERINE DIXON
Craig & Mary Root
VAN & CARLISS DOLLAR
Mr. & Mrs. James Pharis
SUZANNE KIMMONS DOTY
Eloise & Bill Doty
MRS. ALICE DOUGLAS
David & Harriette Haygood
MR. JOHN DOUGLAS
David & Harriette Haygood
22 TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024
@TMHsouthGA @TheMethodistHome
HONOR GIFTS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
HONOR GIFTS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
HAROLD DOWNS
Joy Class Mulberry St. UMC
JACKIE DUDLEY
Jenifer Amos
MARY ANN DUDLEY
Alan & Julie Rogers
PASTORS REBECCA & GARTH DUKE-
BARTON
Sheila H. Burcham
TED & BARBARA DURVIN
Don & Mary Dale Kea
EAGLE’S NEST CAREGIVERS
Nancy G. Nash
EMPLOYEES OF AMERICUS CAMPUS
Sandra G. Wardell
MRS. DON EUBANKS
Robert & Ginger Stribling
ALISON EVANS
Brown & Kathryn Dennis
Carolyn Goff
Theodore Goshorn
Stan Jones
The Methodist Home Board of Directors
MR. & MRS. JIM FERRARI
Johnny & Sharon Walker
BILL & TRUDIE FICKLING
Tom B. Wight
KERRI & BILL FICKLING
Tom B. Wight
ROY & TERESA FICKLING
Tom B. Wight
FRANK & JANET FIELDS
Anne W. Kirkland
MR. & MRS. HARRY FITZGERALD
Mary Ann Stephens
BRIAN & GAIL FLANDERS
Charles & Martha Flanders
EMORY & MARY JO FLETCHER
Amy Fletcher
MRS. SARAH FORD & MR. RICK MAYS
Mary Ann Stephens
LIDDY FOSS
Tom & Dee Dee Tebeau
MR. & MRS. MARK FULLER
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
CHARLIE FUSSELL
Don R. Robinson MDPC
FRANKLIN T. GADDY
Claire Chapman
MR. & MRS. MARX GAINES
Pat & Frank Horne
MR. & MRS. ROBERT GERBERT
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
REV. & MRS. BARRY GIDDENS & MADDUX, PAXTON & LENNOX
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Giddens
MR. ERIC GIDDENS & MR. HENRY
GIDDENS
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Giddens
MILLIE GILMORE
Reva, Joe & Sara Barge
GWENN & BUDDY GLAWSON
Earl & Wanda Barrs
MR. & MRS. KEARNEY
GLENN & ZOIE
Robert & Ginger Stribling
MR. WAYNE GODWIN
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
REV. & MRS. KEITH GOODLETT
Carol Treible
CAROL MATHIAS GORMAN
Claire Chapman
BETH ANN GRANT
Claire Chapman
SHIRLEY GREENWAY
Polly Tompkins
MR. & MRS. WARREN GRICE
Robert & Ginger Stribling
Johnny & Sharon Walker
CINDI & THOM GRIFFITH
Robbie Terrell
MR. & MRS. ALLEN GUDENRATH
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MR. & MRS. STEVE GUPTON
Dr. Wiley Drury
K. ELLEN HAGAN & BAILEY
Dana Simmons
GLEN & CALLIE HALL
Anne W. Kirkland
MR. & MRS. KEN HALL
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MR. & MRS. TOMMY HALLIBURTON
Johnny & Sharon Walker
LYNDA S. HARBUCK
Ann Lanter
Ronnie & Leila Singleton
MR. & MRS. LARRY HARPER
Mr. & Mrs. Les Harper
Dr. Thomas Hudson
BETTY HARRINGTON
Mr. & Mrs. Wilton D. Harrington, Jr.
MR. & MRS. BILL HARRIS
Billie & Jim Gatewood
MR. & MRS. PRESTON HARRIS
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
MR. BILL HATCHER
Larry & Shirley Price
COACH CHRIS HATCHER
Bryant Longshore
ALLENE HAUGABOOK
Amy Lockwood
BOB & CONNIE HAVER
Amie Hinton
DR. MARK HARVEY & STAFF
Connie S. Norris
MARGIE & RICK HAWKINS
Ben, Holly, Daniel & Robert Anderson
RUTH HAYES
Philip & Hope Almon
MR. MILTON HEARD
Stan & Darlene Littleton
MR. & MRS. JAMES A. HELBERG
Mary Ann Stephens
COACH CLAY HELTON
Macon Touchdown Club
RANDY & BOBBIE HELTON
Polly Tompkins
MRS. GERALD HENDERSON
Dr. Wiley Drury
GRACE HENDLEY
George & Debbie Lee
GAIL HESTER
Annie W. Kirkland
SHERIN HINNANT
Claire Chapman
DR. & MRS. CHARLES HOBBY
Dr. Wiley Drury
JOHNNY & LINDA HOLLAND
Peggy J. Gresham
MR. THOMAS M. HOLLAND
Tom Carruth
DIANE & CHARLES HOLMAN
Eloise & Bill Doty
PAT HOOD
Polly Tompkins
STEPHANIE & JONES HOOKS
Craig & Mary Root
MRS. O. WENDELL HORNE, SR.
Pat & Frank Horne
CATHERINE CURTIS HOULE
Ms. Helen Curtis
Cynthia Curtis-Budka
MRS. DEB HOUSE
Dr. Wiley Drury
RENEE HUBBY
Robert & Ginger Stribling
JEFF & LIBBY HUDSON
Dr. Ron M. Hudson
DR. & MRS. TOMMY HUDSON
Ginger & Larry Harper
MR. & MRS. RODNEY HUFFMAN
Mary Ann Stephens
DIANA HULLINGS
Sherie Moses
EVA HUTCHERSON
Claire Chapman
JUNE & WILLIAM HUTCHINGS
Connie Manguno
Melanie Miles
NANCY JACKSON
Claire Chapman & Donna Lovejoy
THE CHARLES JOHNSON FAMILY
Dewey & Suzanne Rozar
DANIEL & KATIE JOHNSON & FAMILY
Dewey & Suzanne Rozar
THE DAVID JOHNSON FAMILY
Dewey & Suzanne Rozar
DR. & MRS. EMORY JOHNSON
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MRS. JOYCE JOHNSON
Ginger & Larry Harper
MR. RICK JOHNSON
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MR. & MRS. STEVE JOHNSON
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
DR. KIM W. JOHNSTON
Georgia Neurosurgical Institute
Vernon & Joan Keenan
Mr. & Mrs. Dale Mann
JUDY, MARY NAN & DEENA
Jimmy Philips
BRANDI JUKES & GIRLS AT CHANGES SALON
Charles & Martha Flanders
MR. & MRS. ANDREW JONES
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MALLORY C. JONES III
Charles A. Jay
BRIAN & ASHLEY KELLEY
Allison Sternenberg
MICHAEL FAREL KEMP
George Flowers
PEGGY “SUNSHINE” KEYS
Davey Keys
MR. & MRS. PAUL KILPATRICK
Ginger & Larry Harper
MR. & MRS. LARRY KING
Meredith L. King
MR. & MRS. RAYMOND KING
Mr. & Mrs. Verlin Jones
MIKE & LISA KLUG
Claire Chapman & Donna Lovejoy
ROBERT E. KNOX
Teresa McClellan
MRS. BETTY SWEET LADSON
Pat & Frank Horne
DR. & MRS. RICK LANFORD
Cameron Bishop
Diana Durie
David Green
Joe & Julie Hopkins
Keith Lawder
Russell Lipford
MR. & MRS. CHRIS LANGE & FAMILY
Mary Ann Stephens
REV. KEITH & MRS. MARY LAWDER
Diana Durie
BARBARA LAWSON
Dennis & Staci Vickers
JUDGE & MRS. HUGH LAWSON
Grace Daniel
James Hunsicker
Mr. & Mrs. Harley F. Lawson
MR. & MRS. KEVIN LEDBETTER
Dr. Ron M. Hudson
MR. & MRS. NEAL LITTLEJOHN
Ginger & Larry Harper
DR. & MRS. STAN LITTLETON
Alison Evans
Gena Tarbutton
JERI LOOMIS
Robert & Ginger Stribling
THE LUNCH LADIES
Leslie Bruder
MR. & MRS. SAM MACFIE
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MACON TOUCHDOWN CLUB
Gene Kernaghan
Mr. Earl Smith
LINDA MALLETTE
Annie W. Kirkland
CONNIE & JEFF MANGUNO
June & William Hutchings
JESSI MARLOW
Claire Chapman & Donna Lovejoy
JAMES & CONNIE MARSH
Claire Chapman
JANI MARTIN
Archer W. Cook, III
John & Elizabeth Wolfe
TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024 23
HONOR GIFTS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
MOLLY MARTIN
Sheryl Towers
THE MAXWELL FAMILY
Robert & Ginger Stribling
DR. & MRS. CHARLES MAY
Rep. Penny Houston
REV. ROGER & MRS. CAROLYN
MAYS
Mary Elaine Willkomm
DR. DEREK MCALEER
Mr.& Mrs. Josh Sangster
DR. & MRS. DEREK MCALEER
Jim McAleer
GRACE C. MCALEER
Dr. & Mrs. Charles McAleer
PATRICIA MCCARTHY
Action Life SS Class
WAYNE & ANGELA MCCLELLAN
Charles & Martha Flanders
SCOTTY & PENDERY MCCOY
Polly Tompkins
MADISON MCDADE
Rebecca Brooks
WILLIAM M. “BILL” MCINTOSH
Eloise & Bill Doty
STEPHEN & LAURIE MCRAE
Marcia Cochran
CAROL & THAD MEEKS
Tom B. Wight
TIFFANY MEEKS
Tom B. Wight
TREY & CLAUDIO MEEKS
Tom B. Wight
JUDY & SANDY MERCER
Polly Tompkins
ROB & KITTY MERRITT
Bob & Susan Middleton
THE METHODIST WORKERS
Florrie P. Crapps
MR. & MRS. SID MIDDLEBROOKS
Johnny & Sharon Walker
DIL & SANDRA MIDDLETON
Wes Kicklighter
MICHAEL & ADAIR MIDDLETON
Bob & Susan Middleton
MELANIE MILES
June & William Hutchings
MRS. BARBARA MILLER
Pat & Frank Horne
THE MIMS FAMILY
Robert & Ginger Stribling
ELOUISE MITCHELL
Mr. & Mr. Emmett Alton Rogers
DRS. KEITH & MELINDA MOFFETT
Alvin & April Beal
DAPHNE WILL MOODY
Sally “Sara” Clark
MRS. SUZANNE MOODY
Johnny & Sharon Walker
BOB & BETTY MOON
Mr. & Mrs. Larry Rhodes
DR. BOB M. MOON
Martha Bowman Memorial UMC
DR. & MRS. HANK MOORE
Johnny & Sharon Walker
WANDA MOORMAN
Tom B. Wight
CHASITY MORAY
Rachel Harbour-Jump
SUE MORRIS
Charles & Martha Flanders
BOB & BETTY MOSS
Dr. Linda Cannon
HANNAH NABI
Guiseppe Getto
IRV & DIANE NAYLOR
Ted & Barbara Durvin
HOMER & KAY NELSON
Bill & Michele Cassidy
Susan & Walter G. Nelson
STRICK & BARBARA NEWSOM
Polly Tompkins
JOY NORRIS
The Adult SS Class at Davisboro UMC
JOY & WAYNE NORRIS
Connie S. Norris
ELIZABETH OGIE
Martha Whatley
RANDALL & LAURA OZMENT
Annie W. Kirkland
MR. & MRS. LYNN PAGE
Ginger & Larry Harper
JAMES & JODI PALMER
Lenore Sell
JEFF PARTRIDGE
Louisville Fire Dept.
RUSH PEACE
Dr. & Mrs. Steve Rumford
AL PEARSON
Elwood Waites
LAWTON PEARSON
Elwood Waites
ANN PEEBLES
Charles & Martha Flanders
MR. & MRS. CHRIS PEEBLES
Ginger & Larry Harper
DALE PFLUG
Shannon Spooneybarger
SUNNY PFLUG
Richard Golden
MR. & MRS. BOB PERKERSON
Mrs. Becky Huff
BILL & MARGARET PERRY
Justin Perry
BONNIE PERRY
The Adult SS Class at Davisboro UMC
MR. & MRS. ARTHUR PHILLIPS, JR.
Mary Ann Stephens
MARY JO & WARREN PLOWDEN
Ms. Mary Plowden
WAYNE PONDERS
Oglethrope Methodist Church
BOBBY POPE
William Smith
MICKEY POPE
Joy Class Mulberry St UMC
BOWEN POTTER
Mr. & Mrs. Philip Potter
DEIDRE POWERS
Arthur L. Grady
TERRY & SALLY PROFFITT
Bob & Donna Cushing
MR. & MRS. FRANK PURVIS
Billie & Jim Gatewood
LINDA & NORRIS RANDALL
Rev. & Mrs. Eugene Barlow
LACIE & AMY RATLIFF
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
PHILIP & SUSAN
RAYMOND
Claire Chapman
AMY & MARK RED
Tom B. Wight
MR. & MRS. LOWRY REID
Ginger & Larry Harper
MR. & MRS. RONALD A.
REYNOLDS
Mary Ann Stephens
DR. & MRS. LOU
RICCARDI
Billie & Jim Gatewood
REV. & MRS. JAY
ROBERSON
Robert Bowman MD
DON & MARY ROBINSON
Judith Maxwell
MR. & MRS. JAMIE ROBINSON & FAMILY
Dr. Charline Robinson
MR. & MRS. HERBERT EUGENE
RONEY
Anonymous
LUELLA ROWLAND
Annie W. Kirkland
MR. & MRS. ANDY ROYSTON
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
THE RUFFIN FAMILY
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MR. & MRS. DAVID SANDA
Johnny & Sharon Walker
CARMEL W. SANDERS
Claire Chapman
CANDY SANGSTER
Alan & Julie Rogers
CHANCE & KENDALL SAXON
Charles & Martha Flanders
MENLA & JOHN SCHWARTZ
Tom B. Wight
MR. & MRS. BILL SCRANTOM
Ginger & Larry Harper
MRS. BYRD SELBY
Susan & Walter G. Nelson
CHARLES WARREN SELBY, JR.
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DALE SMITH
Claire Chapman
HARRIET HARGROVE SMITH
Harvey Smith
KATHRYN & LEO SMITH
Bob & Susan Middleton
MR. & MRS. MIKE SMITH
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MOLLYE & GARY SMITH
Bob & Susan Middleton
MR. RALPH SMITH
Dr. Wiley Drury
MR. & MRS. STEVE SMITH
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
TEE & STEPHANIE SMITH
Dennis & Staci Vickers
THE METHODIST HOME SOCIAL SERVICES DEPT.
Catherine Houle
DR. & MRS. DONALD SPARKS
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Reese
MR. & MRS. BRUCE STACY
Mary Ann Stephens
STAFF & WORKERS AT THE METHODIST HOME
Will & Susan Fell
Rev. Larry & Mrs. Kay Wilbanks
CAROL STALVEY
Ray Stalvey
KATHRYN STANLEY
The Warren Associates, Inc. Family
MISS ANNA GRACE SELLARS
Louise Cowart
MR. & MRS. BLAKE SHARPTON
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MR. & MRS. STEVE SHARROW
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
CLARICE SHEEHAN
Tom B. Wight
REV. KAYLAN SHORT
James S. McLelland & Melanie Gruber
DR. & MRS. DAN SIGMAN
Ginger & Larry Harper
MRS. PAT SIRES
Susan & Walter Nelson
JANE & DAN SKINNER
Tom B. Wight
DR. & MRS. CHARLES SMAHA
Robert & Ginger Stribling
BARBARA SMITH
Polly Tompkins
MR. & MRS. BOONE SMITH
Robert & Ginger Stribling
Charles Stanley
DAVE & LIZ STREET
Jacalyn Wilson
MR. & MRS. STEVE STEWART
Johnny & Sharon Walker
MRS. DEBORAH LYNN STORIE
Dr. Hugh L. Davis
MR. & MRS. ROBERT STRIBLING
Johnny & Sharon Walker
JULIE STUART
Cam & Cindy Oetter
MR. DON SURLES
David & Ellen Ratliff & Jeremy
DR. CULLY TALTON
Hildo Rozikk
GINGER TALTON
Dr. Cully Talton
NEAL TALTON
Robert Redmond
M. Carlene Talton
CONNIE & VAN TANE
Bob & Susan Middleton
24 TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024
MRS. GENA TARBUTTON
Dr. & Mrs. Stan Littleton
DIANE TAYLOR
The Adult SS Class at Davisboro UMC
MRS. BETTY DOW TEMPLETON
Wayne & Cathy Tankersley
DR. & MRS. TOM THEUS
Ginger & Larry Harper
MONTY THORNE
Ms. Butch Deaton
KATHRYN TILLSON
Dennis & Staci Vickers
JAN & MARCUS TRIPP
Fay, Bob & Jeremiah Doane
Ann Lanter
Elizabeth Tripp
Mr. & Mrs. David Walker
JAY & CATHY TUCKER
Claire Chapman & Donna Lovejoy
NELL USSERY
Doyle Thomas
MR. & MRS. TOM VALLANCE
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Giddens
MR. & MRS. MATT VAN ETTA & OPHELIA
Mary Ann Stephens
JULIE VANN
Marvis Trice
EDWIN S. VARNER, JR.
Claire Chapman
JUDY VINSON
Ike & Mandy Vinson
MR. & MRS. JOHN C. WALKER, III
Robert & Ginger Stribling
SUE WALKER
Dr. Phil Barrineau
PAULA & BRUCE WALLING
Robbie Terrell
EVA WARD
Joel & Joyce Dent
LINDA S. WARDELL
Sandra G. Wardell
CLER DOTY WATKINS
Eloise & Bill Doty
RAY & JUDY WELCH
Reva, Joe & Sara Barge
AMY & BOBBY WHALEY
Bob & Susan Middleton
MR. & MRS. WES WHEELER
Billie & Jim Gatewood
DR. & MRS. CECIL WHITAKER
Ginger & Larry Harper
HOWARD & LYNN WHITE
William H. Hayes
REV. LYNN MEADOWS WHITE
Rev. & Mrs. Ronald L. Culpepper
Deborah Duke
Melanie Gruber
J Wren Harris, Jr.
Nancy K. Jones-Ernst
Curtis A. Johnson
Mrs. Mildred McAfee
Mr. & Mrs. William M. McIntosh
Philip J. White
MEMORIALS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
WILLIAM “BILL” AGEE
Ken & Jewel Flanders
MR. & MRS. ERNEST R. ANDERSON
Mr. & Mrs. James S. Brockinton
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THE CONNELL FAMILY
Judy Di Fiore
REID THOMAS
Mr. & Mrs. John Bray
REX. A. THORNE
Ruth Thorne
MS. MARILYN TISDALE
John & Victoria Haley
DR. PHIL TODARO
Charlie & Diana Kirbo
Dr. & Mrs. Don Robinson
POLLY HOLTON TOMPKINS
Mrs. Shirley C. Greenway
Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Norris
ROLF H. TOWE
Kenneth Towe
CHRISTOPHER TRICE
Glennda Elliott
DR. JAMES T. TRICE
Glennda Elliott
GLORIA CROMER TRIPP
Robert Wayne Tripp
WILLIAM “BILLY” TUCKER
JoAnn Roberts
SUE USSERY
Christine M. Clark
DOT VARDAMAN
E. Jan Vardaman
ALLEN & GLADYS VEAL
Jack & Sue Veal
MARSHALL & ETTA LEE VEAL
Jack & Sue Veal
MIKE VENABLE
Wendy Harding
CHARLES VISSAGE
Christine M. Clark
TOM O. WAGONER
Bryan & Rhonda Wagoner
KEN & BECKY WALKER
Kimberly Harnage
KENNETH L. WALKER
Glenda T. Walker
EVA WARD
Christians In Action SS Class
Duane Harrison
Dr. Laudis & Mrs. Kim Lanford
Mr. & Mrs. Clay P. Lavender
Dr. Derek & Mrs. Charlene McAleer
Frank Newman
Sandra, Robin, Jessica & Matt Raffield
WESLEY WARD
Joel & Joyce Dent
MR. TERRY WATERS
Dr. & Mrs. Derek McAleer
SONNY WATSON
Dr. Cully Talton
MR. & MRS. WILLIAM F. WEEKES
Katherine Weekes
ROBERT “ROBEN” WEITZ
JoAnn Roberts
BARBARA WEST
Mr. & Mrs. Mark West
CAM WESTBROOK
Clad & Gwen Westbrook
MRS. CORDELIA HORNE WHALEY
Sandra G. Wardell
MR. & MRS. ROGER (PATSY) WHITE
Nancy Rogers Wagner
MS. JEAN WIGGINS
Ms. Mary Lanford
BILL WILEY
Mr. & Mrs. David F. Green, Sr.
Mr. & Mrs. Russell Lipford, Jr.
BETTY JOYCE WILLIAMS
Claudia Mullins-Lilly
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Redmond
Linda H. Smith
John & Diann Wright
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(10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
MEMORIAL GIFTS
VERA BROWN WILLIAMS
Lisa Collins
Charles & Jeanette McAdams
Eleonora Micheva
Kay & Allen Wrye
ALAN WILLINGHAM
Sybil Willingham
BO & VELMA WILLINGHAM
Sybil Willingham
RICHARD WILLINGHAM
Sybil Willingham
STEVE WILLINGHAM
Sybil Willingham
ERNEST WALTER WILSON, PH.D.
Jerry & Julia Joyner
MARK WILSON
Robbie Terrell
MARTHA WOMBLE
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald H. Rentz
FRANK WOOD
Ann & Russell Loyd
REV. TALMADGE WORSLEY
Mr. & Mrs. Ronald H. Rentz
SANDY WRIGHT
Dr. Cully Talton
REV. BIRD & MRS. LAVERTE YARBROUGH
Keith Yarbrough
EUGENIA YAWN
Tracy Trebendis
REV. FLOYD EUGENE “GENE” YELVERTON
Arlington Methodist Church
ELIOT YOUMAN
Mr. Basil Youman
GEORGE & ANNE YOUMANS
Robert & Ginger Stribling
JUDY YOUMANS
Mrs. Shirley Lowery
FRANK YOUNG SR.
Louise & Frank Young
SPEAKERS BUREAU
We would love to come and share our ministry with your church, Sunday school class, circle, civic group, school, or community event! For more information, please contact The Methodist Home at 478-751-2800.
AVAILABLE SPEAKERS:
Dr. Joel Dent
Mrs. Joyce Dent
Ms. Nancy Hannon
Rev. Creede Hinshaw
Dr. Derek McAleer
Rev. Lynn Meadows-White
Dr. Marcus Tripp
Ms. Alison Evans
Dr. Rick Lanford
Mrs. Jill Myers
Dr. Bob Moon
Mr. Brian Yarbrough
Fostering Success Tax Credit
Help older foster care youth in Georgia achieve their goals by donating to The Methodist Home for Children & Youth, a qualified foster child support organization (QFCSO). You can redirect your state tax dollars to help prevent poverty and homelessness for these young people!
The Fostering Success Tax Credit provides a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit for donations made to QFCSOs. Single taxpayers can contribute up to $2,500 a year, and married couples can contribute up to $5,000 a year. Businesses can also apply for the tax credit, with LLCs and S Corps able to contribute up to $5,000 and large corporations are able to donate 10% annually.
The funds raised through the Fostering Success Tax Credit will be used to support a variety of programs and services for older foster care youth, including:
• Transitional living programs
• Educational programs
• Employment training
• Life skills training
• And more!
Make a difference in the lives of older foster care youth and take advantage of the Fostering Success Tax Credit. You can help these young people achieve their goals and build a brighter future for themselves!
Visit www.TheMethodistHome.org/donate/ to get started!
You must be preapproved by the State Department of Revenue prior to making a gift to receive a state tax credit.
TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024 29 MEMORIAL GIFTS (10/1/23 - 1/31/24)
A Portrait of a Mother
Paint her as you see her, Artist,
Let the lines and wrinkles show.
And the silver hair that crowns her,
Like a halo’s beauteous glow.
Can you picture on the canvas
All the years of sacrifice
How she tended well her household
Ever counting naught the price
Let your brushes tell the story
Of her patient toil and care.
Mingle love with joy and sorrow
Just as life has put them there.
Blend your colors softly, Artist.
Face her toward the setting sun
Smiling calm serene and peaceful
For her task is almost done.
Call the portrait simply “Mother”
All the world will understand
Nations thrive and Empires prosper.
Guided by her gentle hand.
- Author unknown
sent in by Mrs. Meade Adams 403 James Ave. Colonial Heights, Va.
A Legacy of Love
Mrs. Perry Hill Smith, also known as Mary Olivia McCalla Smith, of Elberton, Georgia was a saint and a heroine to those who knew her. Mrs. Smith was born on the McCalla
Plantation, and after marrying her husband, Mr. Perry Hill Smith, she moved into the Smith House located on 239 Heard Street in Elberton. Mrs. Smith lived all of her adult life in the Smith House. Her husband passed away in 1933.
Mary Olivia McCalla Smith was a loyal Methodist who lived a life of love impacting everyone she encountered. One of the people
most impacted by Mrs. Smith’s love was her grandson, Dr. L. Perry LaConte.
Dr. LaConte was born in 1935, just two years after his grandfather’s death. He was raised by his grandmother when his parents moved to Germany on a military assignment.
Dr. LaConte affectionately called his grandmother Bigmama, because she was his mother and father all wrapped up in one. He spent his formative years living with her in Elberton. He attended school and played basketball there. Dr. LaConte’s grandmother was the only parent to ever watch him play
30 TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024
basketball at Elberton High School. One night while Mrs. Smith was attending his game, Dr. LaConte played well above his abilities – he said that he, along with everyone else, was surprised. I imagine that his grandmother wasn’t surprised at all.
Mrs. Smith deeply loved her grandson. She was always active and interested in his life, caring about his wellbeing and happiness. When I first met Dr. LaConte, he shared he had never known a more gracious and more Christian woman than his grandmother. Her life was a living testimony of God’s love, and he credited her with showing and teaching him the true meaning of love throughout his life. Mrs. Smith raised Dr. LaConte in the church, taught him to read the Bible, and insisted he act accordingly. He shared his grandmother was a gentle woman, never putting a hand on him or shouting at him. He remembers her being so proud of him and all he accomplished. Dr. Laconte told me that one of many reasons he loved his grandmother so much was because of the way she treated him – she was the perfect example of love. Because of that great love, he never wanted to do anything that might disappoint her. He always wanted her to be proud of him.
After graduating from high school, Dr. LaConte attended Georgia Tech and The University of Georgia. After college, he moved back to Elberton and taught chemistry and physics at the high school. He was named Teacher of the Year in 1959. Mrs. Smith passed away in 1964. Her death was devastating to Dr. LaConte. Surrounded with all of the memories of their life in Elberton, Dr. LaConte realized he needed to make a new start. He applied for admission into The Medical College of Georgia and began his medical education. He shared that his studies proved very helpful as he moved through his grief for his grandmother. Dr. LaConte graduated from medical school in 1968. He completed a one-year internship at University Hospital in
Augusta and a three-year residency in radiology at Talmadge Memorial Hospital in Augusta. He also served as a radiology instructor at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital. He moved to Moultrie, Georgia in 1975 and practiced radiology there until his retirement.
Throughout his life, Dr. LaConte has remembered the loving, generous nature of his grandmother. Her legacy continues to mold and shape his life even now. He and his wife, Juanita, have always believed in giving back and sharing what they have with others. They feel that loving and giving back to others is the natural response to life’s blessings. They generously support many charities and have endowed a scholarship fund so students in Elbert County may attend The University of Georgia. Most recently, they established an endowment fund at The Foundation of The Methodist Home. The Endowment Fund was established in loving memory of Dr. LaConte’s grandmother, Mrs. Mary Olivia McCalla Smith, also known as Mrs. Perry Hill Smith. The fund will exist in perpetuity, providing for the love and support of the boys and girls served by The Methodist Home.
The legacy of love and kindness continues and grows….all because of the love and compassion shown to a young boy by his grandmother.
TheMethodistHome.org • GATEWAY SPRING/SUMMER 2024 31
CAROLINE EDENFIELD CEO of The Foundation of The Methodist Home
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