BOARD CHANGES FOR 2025
The Board of the Presbyterian Home for Children approved its Executive Committee for 2025. Rev. Brandon Miles of Mobile will be Moderator of the Board.
Miles will be joined by David Perry of Birmingham as Treasurer, Lisa deShazo of Mobile as Vice Moderator, Mark Feagin of Birmingham as Past Moderator, and Dr. Joyce Pettis Temple of Mobile as Member at Large.
Other reappointed members of the Executive Committee are Carol Copeland of Athens as Secretary and John Haley, Esq. of Birmingham as Legal Counsel.
The Board also welcomed to its ranks Rev. Tara Bulger of Huntsville, Amy Dickerson of Hoover, Rev. Robin Palmer of Madison and Rev. Bob Phelps of Albertville.
The Home and Board wishes to express its deep gratitude to departing trustees for their leadership and love in a shared calling to at-risk children and families at and through the Home: Dr. Jim Davis, Paige Goldman, Esq., Janis Williams and Newell Witherspoon.
The Presbyterian Home for Children’s Board of Trustees met for their annual meeting on Oct. 8 at the Home’s campus. They took time for a group photo between meetings at Weatherly Hall.
SADDLES UP!
Aaliyah Hickman and her Ascension Leadership Academy classmates visited Bennett Farms in Heflin in October, where they rode saddles, picked pumpkins and got a hayride. See more photos on Page 5.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Mr. Mark Feagin Birmingham, Moderator
Rev. Brandon Miles Mobile, Vice Moderator
Mr. George Fritsma Trussville, Immediate Past Moderator
Mr. Newell Witherspoon Birmingham, Treasurer
Ms. Carol Copeland Athens, Secretary
Mr. John W. Haley, Esq. Birmingham, Legal Counsel
Ms. Lisa deShazo Mobile, Member At Large
Rev. Christie Ashton Huntsville
Mr. Ted Autterson Mobile
Mr. David Ayers Mobile
Ms. Millie Chastain Talladega
Dr. Jimmy Davis Talladega
Ms. Cathy DeLozier Birmingham
Ms. Paige Goldman, Esq. Birmingham
Mr. Jeff Hicks Montrose
Rev. David Jamison Enterprise
Tom Lewis Madison
Ms. Regan Liggins Vestavia
Mr. John Myers Bay Minette
Mr. David Perry Birmingham
Rev. Madison Roberts Mountain Brook
Rev. Joseph Scrivner, Ph.D. Tuscaloosa
Dr. Joyce Pettis-Temple Huntsville
Mr. Scott Weldon Mobile
Ms. Janis Williams Huntsville
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Ms. Amy Dickerson, Hoover
Ms. Mary Otulana, Homewood Rev. Robin Palmer, Madison Ms. Christi Robinson, Huntsville Ms. Brenda Uptain, Talladega
Mr. Chuck Williams, Hiram, GA Rev. Jonathan Yarboro, Wetumpka
Beginnings Editorial Staff: Cindy Fisher, Brad Fisher, Devon Gray P.O. Box 577 Talladega, AL 35161
Telephone: 256.362.2114
E-mail: info@phfc.org
Rev.
FROM THE PRESIDENT
One of the most powerful questions we can ask is, “Why do you give?”
At the Presbyterian Home for Children, I have the privilege of speaking with people from all walks of life who have generously and faithfully supported our mission. Whether it’s board members, pastors, donors, or staff, the answers are often deeply personal and always inspiring. Our work, which spans over 156 years, has been shaped by a collective commitment to serve at-risk and homeless children, youth, young adults, and families across Alabama. Each person who gives does so because they are deeply connected to this mission.
Connecting Through Faith
“As a pastor, I believe that supporting the Presbyterian Home for Children is living out our call to serve the ‘least of these.’ Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them. For it is to such as these that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs.’ This home welcomes God's children, and offers love, healing and hope to those most in need.”
— Rev. Alexandra Hutson, Pastor of Swift Presbyterian Church in Foley
For many, their connection to the Presbyterian Home is rooted in their faith and their desire to be a part of God’s work. The families and children we serve are often in the most challenging situations, and their stories inspire us to extend our hands and hearts in ways that reflect Christ’s teachings.
Giving Back to the Community
“It is a privilege to partner with the Presbyterian Home for Children. The various programs provided by the Home empower the next generation of leaders by eliminating barriers to their success. By giving your time and resources, you become part of the solution and allow the Home to fulfill its mission of helping children in our community reach their full potential.”
— Terry Smiley, Vice President, Eastern Division of Alabama Power
Businesses and community leaders tell us they understand that investing in the lives of children and families today creates stronger, healthier communities for the future.
Supporting Our Most Vulnerable
“I support the Presbyterian Home for Children because I have a special place in my heart for children and families who are in need of hope and stability that the Home provides. God's love shines bright at PHFC, and I feel blessed to be one of its continuing supporters.” — Danny Foote, Member of Cahaba Springs Presbyterian Church and resident of Trussville
Donors like you recognize that our programs provide more than just basic needs—they offer stability, growth, and a chance to thrive. From Secure Dwellings to Ascension Leadership Academy, every dollar helps change a life.
A Staff's Perspective
“Working at the Home, I have seen countless young women regain their hope and independence. It drives me to continue this work, and they are the reason I am proud to give back.” — Elivia Santana, Transition to Adult Living Case Manager
Our staff members are not only the hands and feet of this mission, but many are also donors. They experience the transformation in the lives of the children and families they serve every day, which deepens their connection to our work.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Each of these voices shares a common thread — their connection to the children and families we serve and their belief in our mission. As we approach the end of the year, I invite you to consider why you give and how your generosity can continue to provide hope, healing, and opportunities for those in need.
Thank you for your continued support of the Presbyterian Home for Children. With your help, we will continue to be a beacon of light for the most vulnerable among us, ensuring that they grow, thrive, and become the fully functioning persons whom God created them to be.
In Christ,
Doug Marshall President & CEO
HORSING AROUND
Senior Callie Hughes recently competed with her horse Boogie in the Alabama Open Horseman’s Association State Championship and brought back three awards, including fourth place in Youth Barrels ages 13-17 and in Cloverleaf Barrels. Callie placed ninth in Open Barrels, where she competed against 95 contestants, including adults. She is now participating in Alabama High School Rodeo Association competitions and hopes to qualify and represent Alabama and ALA in the high school rodeo finals in Rock Springs, Wyoming later this year. Callie is an honor student, works part-time, and has participated in dual enrollment classes through Central Alabama Community College her junior and senior years. Ascension’s online classes make it possible for students like Callie to attend competitions and stay current with class assignments.
ASCENSION LEADERSHIP ACADEMY STUDENTS ATTEND FOCUS RALLY
Ascension Leadership Academy students joined more than 700 junior high and high school students at the FOCUS Rally held at Shocco Springs on Oct. 16.
This impactful event empowers students to become leaders in preventing adolescent risk behaviors among their peers. By attending sessions and hearing from inspiring speakers, our students are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate today’s world with confidence and purpose. ALA is committed to shaping future leaders who not only excel academically but also serve as role models of positive change within their communities.
EXPRESSION THROUGH ART
Our Ascension teenagers get to experience art through a class with Karla Shackleford several times a year, which gives the students a chance to express themselves in new ways and discover and explore talents.
FALL FARM TRIP
Bennett Farm in Heflin welcomed our Ascension Leadership students in October for a tour of the property that featured learning about farm animals, picking pumpkins from the pumpkin patch, pumping water from a well with a pitcher pump, and more. The children enjoyed a hayride and made many memories with many smiles.
LEARNING TO SAVE LIVES
Twelve ALA students are now CPR certified! Our students recently learned about saving lives in a CPR training class provided by Captain Casey Rager of the Lincoln Fire and Rescue Department and received certification at the end of the course.
GIVING BACK TO DIAPER ROW
Ascension students started off the 2024-2025 academic year with a continuing community service project helping to unload and sort diapers for the Diaper Row Project, which is part of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Talladega. Ascension provides opportunities for students to participate in community projects so they learn to give back to others at an early age.
SUMMER ADVENTURES FOR PHFC FAMILIES
At the Presbyterian Home for Children, creating opportunities for connection and joy is a key part of our mission. This summer, families in our Secure Dwellings and Transition to Adult Living (TAL) programs had the chance to escape routine and make lasting memories together. With trips to Lake Winnie, the Tennessee Aquarium, and Alabama Adventures in Birmingham, we aimed to give these families a summer filled with excitement, relaxation, and quality time—experiences every family deserves.
These outings are a reflection of the Home’s commitment to not only provide a safe, supportive living environment but to foster a sense of normalcy and joy for mothers and children who have faced challenging circumstances. Programs like Secure Dwellings, which offers long-term housing for homeless children and their female caregivers, go beyond shelter. Through Secure Dwellings, we strive to give families a pathway to stability, where moms are empowered, children are encouraged, and each family member can feel a sense of belonging.
This year, our capacity to serve has grown, thanks to recent renovations of Whitfield and Robinson Cottages. By expand ing with these cottages, PHFC can now welcome even more families into Secure Dwellings, providing much-needed refuge and resources in an environment dedicated to healing. These special summer outings, made possible by generous donor support, serve as a reminder of the impact that compassion and community have on these families’ lives.
If you know someone who could benefit from the Home’s proven, faithbased programs, please visit https://phfc.org/family-services/. And if you feel inspired, consider giving to ensure we can continue offering safe haven and joyful experiences like these to more families in need.
Together, we’re building a pathway to a brighter, more hopeful future for those we serve!
DONATE A BLESSING
Of course you know how to make your car turn left or right. But do you know how to turn your car into a blessing?
Donating your underused car, truck, boat, or jet ski to the Presbyterian Home for Children is indeed a blessing to the Home and to you. If we can’t use the vehicle, we sell it locally at zero commission, so all the proceeds go to help us provide for and love the children and families entrusted to our care.
When you donate your car to the Home, you will be eligible for a tax donation. And you’ll be blessed knowing that you helped the Home serve some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
The Home was thankful to receive two recent four-wheeled blessings this year. A friend of the Home donated a 2014 Nissan Rogue, and Melissa O'Brien, a member of Church of
the Covenant in Anniston, wanted a smaller vehicle for her work commute, so she donated her well-maintained and well-driven Suburban to the Home. It was sold at auction at zero commission with the funds used toward our programs. O’Brien got a tax deduction and avoided the hassle of selling her car. And she got the great feeling of knowing she helped the Home and its residents. If you’d like to learn how to turn your vehicle into a blessing, contact Suzanne Cornett at (256) 362-8284 or scornett@phfc.org.
CAMINOS® PROGRAM DIRECTOR SAYS SHE FEELS ‘THE PRESENCE OF GOD’ IN THEIR WORK WITH MIGRANT CHILDREN
The Presbyterian Home for Children has joined the national Caminos® program to fill a growing need in Alabama and surrounding states to ensure private homes are safe for unaccompanied immigrant children who are being placed with sponsor families living in communities throughout the South.
“We are working with kids that are going through trauma before the journey, during the journey, and after the journey,” Program Director Adalis Ortiz-Vega told the Home’s Board of Trustees in the annual meeting in October. “We are making sure that these kids are safe and are going to a safe environment at school and home.”
The Home has hired two case managers and a coordinator in quality assurance and administration in the last six months to help ensure the safety of migrant children being placed from shelters in homes throughout Alabama and surrounding states.
Ortiz said she and her staff take their jobs seriously. “We have two case managers, and they love our mission,” Ortiz said. “They protect our mission; they embrace it. This program is not just a job. This program is our baby.”
“Everything that we do is very intentional,” Ortiz said. “Everyone that is hired is very, very intentional. The person that is part of our program has to be someone with the right heart, with the right mind. Professional, but with the right intention to work with the children, with stakeholders, and to make this work, the mission that it is made for.”
Ortiz said the Caminos® staff is already handling 31 cases of children being placed in homes with a sponsor family and have conducted seven studies to ensure the potential home
is safe. The Birmingham-based office is handling cases in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Georgia as well as Mobile, Albertville, Montgomery, Enterprise, Athens, Union Springs, and Birmingham in Alabama. “So, we are running and running and running,” Ortiz told the Home’s Board. “We haven't stopped. And we are happy about the outcomes that we are already having.”
The Caminos® team manned a table at the Hispanic festival called Fiesta on Sept. 28 at Linn Park in Birmingham to introduce the program’s service for migrant children to the Latino community. The Home’s Vice President of People, Culture, and Administration Stephani Burton joined them to share our mission.
She credited the success of Caminos® to a higher calling. “I know this comes from God, and it’s for Him, and about Him that we are making the impacts in these families and children,” Ortiz said. “God is among us. The presence of God is in this program, and I know that everything that we do is through Him, for Him and about Him.”
“And I'm very positive,” she continued. “We’re going to make (sure) these kids are safe.”
The Home is doing this work through a contract with nonprofit, Methodist-based Everstand in Baltimore and the U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide in-home placement support for children, many of whom have physical or intellectual disabilities, have been trafficked, or are at a high risk of being trafficked.
“We are aware that this is just the beginning,” Ortiz said. “And when this is just beginning, we know that it requires our full mindset.”
Program Director Adalis Ortiz-Vega, second from left, and her team Tali Dominguez, Michelle Borjas and Estefania Medina.
HOME GROWS OUTREACH IN WILCOX COUNTY
The Home’s mission outreach into Wilcox County expanded in September when we started a new Weekend Backpack feeding program in partnership with M.I.N.D. Mentoring in New Dimensions.
On Fridays, the Home and M.I.N.D. now send bags filled with food home with 40 of the neediest children attending F.S. Ervin Elementary in Pine Hill.
The bags include two meals along with shelf-stable milk, fruit cups, and granola bars that ensure they have healthy meals and snacks while away from school on the weekends.
Many children in impoverished areas get their best meals at school. That includes F.S. Ervin students, who eat free breakfast and lunch at their school during the week. But many experience food insecurity during the weekends when school is closed. That’s why we started the Weekend Backpack program with M.I.N.D. Director Brooks Thomas.
The Home used helpful startup instructions from Alabama churches already doing this wonderful program, specifically First Presbyterian in Huntsville, to get our program off the ground.
We used a $500 donation from First Presbyterian of Huntsville to cover the startup costs of the bags, Rubbermaid bins, and carts for transporting the bins.
We also received a generous $4,000 donation from the Birmingham-based Newton Family Foundation that will cover the cost of feeding the children for 10 weeks. Sue Aldridge Newton, age 93, passed away on Sept. 11, 2023. She loved the people and places of Wilcox County where her family was from.
The Weekend Backpack program will continue for 35 weeks of the school year. If you are interested in funding meals for a week or a month or would like to help pack bags, let Mission Outreach Director Cindy Fisher know at cfisher@phfc.org
LIVING RIVER SUMMER EXPERIENCE
This summer, the Home and M.I.N.D. sent 30 children from Wilcox County to Living River for an unforgettable spiritual experience at the peaceful Presbyterian camp on the Cahaba River. Living River provided scholarships for the children to attend, and the Home covered the costs to travel there and back. For many children, it was their first time to leave Wilcox County. This summer’s program was the second summer for the Home to help send Wilcox children to attend summer camp at Living River.
TALLADEGA BUSINESS DONATES MINI-BUS TO THE HOME
A provider of logistics services for Honda with offices in Talladega County donated a 28-passenger mini-bus to the Presbyterian Home for Children in October.
New South Express delivered the bus – packed with supplies and goodies – to the campus on Wednesday, Oct. 9. The bus is the largest transportation vehicle the Home has owned and will be used by staff to transport the children and moms who live on campus as part of our growing Secure Dwellings program on weekend breaks and vacation trips during the year. The Home will also use the bus to take students attending our accredited school, Ascension Leadership Academy, on field trips where they can learn in new environments.
“Having normal life experiences like weekend breaks and vacation trips is so important to our children and families who come to the Home for peace and stability,” PHFC CEO Doug Marshall said. “Now we will have another way to get these families to destinations to provide rest and relaxation and – through this bus – continue to enhance their lives while they heal in our care.”
New South Express is a Logistics and Consolidation Center that transports and warehouses parts for Alabama Auto Plant (Honda). Founded in 2000, it has a location in Talladega and Lincoln, Alabama, and more than 1,400 employees.
New South Express brought their
The company brought guests to the bus delivery ceremony in front of Weatherly Hall to celebrate with our staff and children from Ascension Leadership Academy. They brought their executive team that includes President Rui Mitsuta, Vice President John Gale, and Senior Managers Chris Cash and Braulio Carvalho. Their human resources department leaders who came were Jeremy Murphy, Kaitlyn Hawkins, and Ashley Waters. They brought with them warehouse associates Rhonda Morris, Jonathan Buckhannan, and Nick Reynolds. Their bus driver was Kelsi Ramirez in the transportation department, and Anita Cunningham from accounting came too.
Marshall accepted the keys to the mini-bus and expressed the Home’s gratitude to the New South Express team for the generous donation. NSE Vice President John Gale said that the company has made a priority of reaching out and building partnerships in the community.
“A big part of our employees come from Talladega and Talladega County, and we very much want to be seen in a positive light, especially in the communities where our employees live,” Gale said. “But this is not some kind of public relations stunt. We want to grow our opportunities to create joy for people who really need it.”
“It’s definitely not a stunt,” Marshall agreed. “I know this is coming straight from the heart, from the employees in our community and all over east central Alabama. We are very proud to be your friends.”
team to celebrate the donation of a mini-bus to the Home.
LOVELegacy of
The Presbyterian Home for Children expresses our deep gratitude to a few of our partners in ministry two times a year with the “Legacy of Love Award.” In September, the Home honored John Lesley at his church, Bethel Presbyterian Church in Tuscaloosa.
“You are an example not only to this church, but also to others across this State and beyond as we do the work God intended us to do,” said Doug Marshall, President and CEO of PHFC. “You are an incredible man of God with a great heart for children.”
Lesley was the driving force behind an annual fish fry at Bethel Presbyterian Church that raised money and awareness for the Home for many years. Each year, his team sold 600 tickets and cooked fish in three professional fryers to make the event a success. But it wasn’t just about the funds; it was about creating a gathering full of compassion and purpose, something close to his heart.
“We did the fish fry for years,” Lesley said. “Everybody sold tickets, everybody came, everybody helped serve. Everybody loved it. It was sort of like a reunion.”
Lesley said, “I didn’t do it all. I did do part of it, and I’m proud to take the honor for it. I just want all of you to know, I could not have done it without everyone’s help. Y’all are part of it too. You gave of yourselves and your money,” he told the congregation and his family who proudly looked on as he received the award at the front of the church.
Marshall agreed but responded, “It was most definitely due to your leadership.” Bethel’s Pastor, The Rev. Dr. Neil McCarter, also expressed his gratitude for the enduring partnership with the Home to care for at-risk and homeless children and families.
Working with the Home brings back good memories for Lesley. He said that people from the Children’s Home sometimes came and ate with the Bethel church family at the fish fry. And he said when he and his late wife of 54 years, Bobbie, brought donations to the Home in Talladega at Christmas time, they treated themselves to a meal at the Bright Star restaurant in Bessemer on their way home to Tuscaloosa.
Marshall said that while the award “reflects your legacy,” Lesley’s legacy is also his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Lesley beamed and said to the congregation that was full of family members there to celebrate his being recognized with the Legacy of Love award that he is about to welcome his ninth great grandchild.
DEFIBRILLATOR DONATED TO THE HOME
The Presbyterian Home for Children now has an additional defibrillator on campus so staff can respond to emergencies quickly.
A partnership that is committed to promoting life-saving readiness has donated the state-ofthe-art ZOLL AED 3 public access defibrillator to the Home. The defibrillator is now mounted and clearly identified in the programs office building next to Weatherly Hall.
The donation is from The Lifesaving Summit, alongside GoRescue Brands, ZOLL Public Safety, and the Health & Safety Institute (HSI). The donation comes with CPR+AED certification for staff.
This AED unit is designed to offer immediate and effective emergency response in cases of sudden cardiac arrest, a critical addition for PHFC’s residents, staff, and visitors. The generous donation included not only the AED itself but also AED365 program management, a wall cabinet, signage, and the certification. The donation underscores PHFC’s commitment to maintaining a safe and prepared environment for those we serve.
The donation ceremony was attended by local leaders, including the Talladega Police Chief, Fire Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, and City Council members, showing the community’s support for PHFC’s mission.
Brady B. McLaughlin, founder of The Lifesaving Summit, emphasized how crucial it is to have a compliant and ready-to-use AED system onsite. This partnership helps ensure that PHFC is prepared for any emergency, empowering staff to provide immediate assistance during cardiac events and extending the safety and care PHFC provides for Alabama’s most vulnerable children and families.
Home staff Elivia Santana and Sharon Moore with Brady McLaughlin of The Lifesaving Summit and Kristen Guerrieo of ZOLL.
CONSTRUCTION TO BEGIN ON ANOTHER UNION VILLAGE DUPLEX
Since 2017, the Presbyterian Home for Children in Talladega has partnered with its neighbor Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind to operate Union Village, a permanent supportive housing community for individuals who are deaf, blind, deafblind, or multidisabled.
This community, unique and unmatched in the nation, is about to grow again. The Home signed a contract with Talladega-based Davis Builders to build our latest duplex. Construction is to begin no later than Dec. 1 and is to be completed in 180 days.
The duplex is funded by a gift from Second Presbyterian Church of Birmingham after its Session voted to give some of the proceeds from the sale of the Second Presbyterian Church property to the Home. Second Presbyterian has recently merged with Edgewood Presbyterian Church in Homewood.
Doug Marshall, the Home’s President and CEO, said, “We are pleased and blessed that the Second Presbyterian Church thought of us as a way to create a lasting legacy for the church after its historic and faithful mission partnership with the Home.”
PRESBYTERIAN HOME FOR CHILDREN
1868 SOCIETY
Dear Doug,
MY PLEDGE IS:
CHILDREN’S CHAMPION ($10,000 OR MORE)
CHILDREN’S GUARDIAN ($5,000) 1868 SOCIETY ($1,868)
CHILDREN’S FRIEND ($750)
CHILDREN’S PATRON ($100) OTHER AMOUNT $______
MY PLEDGE WILL BE PAID:
MY GIFT WILL BE PAID: ONE TIME QUARTERLY MONTHLY SEMI-ANNUALLY
Second Presbyterian Church opened on Columbiana Road near Samford University in 1965. The churches held their first service as a merged congregation on World Communion Sunday on Oct. 6.
The new duplex will bring to 12 the number of tiny cottages (two 500-square-foot homes per duplex) available in Union Village. The Home plans to eventually have 42 tiny cottages. About 37 residents live at Union Village, with nearly 27 living in the five large cottages.
Each new cottage is fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. They include zero-step entry, minimal thresholds, and other features. AIDB provides full wraparound support services to Union Village residents such as advocacy, job coaching, case management, transportation, assistive technology, and more.
Rental income from Union Village provides an additional funding source for PHFC, which serves at-risk and homeless children, youth, and families in addition to young female adults in crisis.
The 1868 Society is the Home’s Annual Pledge campaign which begins in October. It recognizes donors who make an ongoing commitment to support the ministry to children that has been the Home’s mission for more than 156 years.
If you make a pledge (or gift) of $1,868 or more before Dec. 30, 2024 you’ll be recognized as a member of the 1868 Society in next year’s Spring edition of Beginnings newsletter. Use the form below and mail to: Presbyterian Home for Children, P. O. BOX 577, Talladega, AL 35161, or use the envelope enclosed in this newsletter.
ONLINE DONATIONS
YOU CAN DONATE ONLINE FOR CREDIT/DEBIT CARDS, PAYPAL OR VENMO!
ENCLOSED IS MY GIFT FOR:
Dear Doug, Yes! I want to help change lives! I will join with you to help the children and families served by
WE CAN ALSO TAKE YOUR CREDIT/DEBIT CARD INFORMATION OVER THE PHONE. PLEASE CALL SUZANNE CORNETT, MANAGER OF DONOR RELATIONS AT 256-362-8284. SCAN TO DONATE 1868 APPEAL 1868/2024
1868/FALL22
VOLUNTEER GARDENERS TICKLE THE SENSES OF RESIDENTS AT UNION VILLAGE
A new Sensory Garden being planted at Union Village is a special initiative made possible by the leadership and generosity of longtime friend of the Home and Master Gardener Keith Cardwell of Foley.
With the partnership of Jacob Turner, the Regional Extension Agent for Central/East Central Alabama with the Auburn University Cooperative Extension, and the Talladega Master Gardeners Interns Class, this unique garden is designed to engage all five senses – sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. The goal is to create an inclusive space for the individuals served by PHFC and AIDB through Union Village who deaf, blind, deafblind, or multidisabled.
This garden, located at the bus stop next to Jordan Cottage, allows them to experience the therapeutic and enriching benefits of nature with a winding crushed stone path and raised plant beds. Each plant was thoughtfully selected for its sensory properties, offering a holistic experience in this serene environment.
The thoughtfully designed space offers a variety of experiences for visitors with or without disabilities. From colorful plants and fragrant flowers to wind chimes and water features, every element is intended to excite the senses and encourage mindfulness. For those with vision impairments, plants will be clustered for easier sight recognition, while ornamental grasses will add auditory depth through the sounds of rustling leaves. Visitors are encouraged to touch soft petals, feel rough bark and experience the overall serenity of this thoughtful landscape.
The garden is a passion project for Cardwell, who retired as minister of Swift Presbyterian Church in Foley and uses his free time to enjoy gardening. Born and raised in nearby Goodwater, Cardwell has been a strong supporter of the Home for over 30 years.
Jacob Turner, right, maps out where plants will go in the Sensory Garden.
MEMORIAL GIFTS
ARYAN MEADE ABERNETHY
Damon and Miranda Abernethy
MILLARD A. ANDERSON
Nancy and Andy Anderson
MARGUERITE ANDREWS
Zoe and Charles Foster
DR. HERBERT AND NELL ARNOLD
Elizabeth and Ken Silvo
PATRICIA E. AVERY
Gay and Wayne Hinton
B
CARROLL BARRETT
Ellen Barrett
WILLIAM BENEFIELD
Cynthia Sims
DR. JOHN WILLIAM BOLTON
Alice Gardner
ELOISE BOYD
Louise and Pierce Boyd
MRS. SHIRLEY BOYD
William Boyd
CLAY BROUSSARD
Ann Compton
CHAD BRYAN
Marian Bevel
CLAURA EILEEN CASH
Robert and Jan Monroe
JOSEPH AND ERNESTINE CHAPPELL
Stephen and Lane Chappell
ELIJAH M. AND SHIRLEY JEAN COLEY
Susan and Hall Bryant
OLIVIA BRYANT CRUMP
John and Sue Shaver
D
DOROTHY JEAN DARWIN
Susan and Hall Bryant
CURTIS T. DAVIS
Lori and Mark Martin
BILLY DERBEN
Phyllis Jean Lawrence
MARIAN DESLATTES
Douglas Deslattes
E
JOAN EMBRY
Margaret Hamman
Joseph and Patricia Morris
LINDA FLORENCE
Mary Jane Skinner
GLEN & BARBARA FRANKLIN
Richard Frennea
G
MICHAEL D. GATTOZZI
Charlotte Gattozzi
WALTER GIVHAN
Jane Rutland Reed
CHALMERS BIGHAM GREENE
Roberta Haden Greene
HDONALD J. HACKETT
Margie Turney
SUSIE HAMMONDS
Caron and Bellaire Riley
IRMIE HAMNER
James and Ida Jo Daughtry
FANNIE M. HARRIS
Marie Player
KATHERINE LYNEE HAUBEIN
Robert Haubein
FAYE HARWELL
Carole Smith
MARIE HEBERT
Joan Reisinger
BOBBY HOLLIS
Hayne and Cindy Hollis
ERIC HYDE
Susan and Hall Bryant
J
LYNNETTE JAXON
Jay Jaxon
KARL AND MARTHA JOHNSON
Jo Ann Day
HELEN JOHNSON
James Johnson
STANLEY DAVID JOHNSTON
Susan and Hall Bryant
HELEN JONES
Janet Brown
RANDY JONES
Stephen Chappelear
MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PRESBYTERIAN HOME FOR CHILDREN ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER WITH THE NAME OF THE DECEASED IN CAPITAL LETTERS FOLLOWED BY THE DONORS’ NAMES.
SHELLEY JONES
Charles Michael & Sandy Stilson
K
GAIL LATTA KEY
Zellene Ingle
TEETIE KIRKPATRICK
Vaughan Johnson L
KATY LADY
B. Ramsey Knight
ANNA KEYSER AND JENNIE LAST
Joan Last
SUE ANN LAY
Mark Melton
MARGARET LEACH
Jessellan Dunn
MARTIN LEAVITT
Jane Gough
MARTHA LONG
Jane Rutland Reed
BABBS LUNDY
John and Carol Fee
MILDRED “BABBS” O'DONNELL LUNDY
John and Sue Shaver
Smith Thornton Advisors, LLC
MZACHARY MARKS
Debra and Robert Marks
MR. AND MRS. W. H. MARSH
James Marsh
MARTHA MARTIN
Mark Aldridge
Grace Presbyterian Women
Randy and Christy Little
Elizabeth Ponder
Francis Tatum
MRS. IDA MASON
Louise and Pierce Boyd
MR. AND MRS. PRENTISS R. MCLEOD
Robert and Debbie McLeod
FRIEDA MEACHAM
James and Suzanne McRae
PHILIP R. MELTON
James and Carrie Cresap
Julee Howard
Jan Taylor
MR. BILL PARKS AND MRS. SHELLEY JONES
Christy & Sallie Davidson
MAMIE JONES
William Lummus
JOHN THOMAS MOSS
JIM NICHOLS
Donna Wiltsie
DOROTHY JANE NISBET
Wayne and Susie Dempsey
LEVADA NORTON
Carolyn Edwards
Shepherd of the Valley Presbyterian Women
MARGERY NUNNELLEY
Ken and Lucie Nelson
PBOBBY RAY PACK
Susan and Hall Bryant
GARNELL CAMBRON PIKE
John and Sue Shaver
RICHARD AND EVELYN POSNER
Raymond & Nan Bishop
MR. & MRS. L. L. PRITCHETT
Tommy McKinney
ROLGA F. RAMSEY
Carol Ramsey
MARY FRANCES FORBES REED
Nelson & Cassie Forbes
VIRGINIA CRAIG ROBERTSON
Mary Beth and Joe Philips
JIM ROBERTS
George Burks
MARY PETERS RUTLAND
Jo Ann Day
Carole Smith
Tommy and Catherine Tackett
Tallatron
SSusan and Hall Bryant N
MILDRED M. SCOTT
Arnold Sisson
DEEMER OTTO SELF
Susan and Hall Bryant
THOMAS A. SHARP
Susan and Hall Bryant
JAMES & MARY SILAVENT
Linda Silavent McMillan
CLIFFORD WILLIAMS SIMS
Susan and Hall Bryant
JOYCE SWINNEY
Jane Rutland Reed
MRS. MARGARET SLAUGHTER
George Fritsma
MEMORIAL GIFTS
E. R. “BUCK” AND EVA JEAN SMITHERMAN
Julie and Scott Rich
CAMILLE SOLLEY
Steven Solley
JODY SPEER
Oakmont Presbyterian Church's Christian Life Sunday School Class
EVA BELL STANKARD
Gail and Sonny Sharman
Bonnie Stephens
Rick and Donna Anderson
Janet Barnes
Oakmont Presbyterian Church's Christian Life Sunday School Class
Alicia Stefanski
JAMIE STEWART
Susan and Hall Bryant
EDITH R. STEWART
Mary Steiner
FELICIA AYERS STOREY
Dorothy Martin
ETHEL STROUD
Margie Turney
ANN SUBLETT
Beth Faison
TLOUISE AND ALLEN TARTT
Anne Lyons
JOE B. TAYLOR
Christina Tidwell
MARK TAYLOR
John Upchurch
DR. AND MRS. IRA D. THOMPSON
Janice Turner
BONNIE STEPHENS
Ann Sirles
BARCKLEY WALLACE TOOLE
Sidney Thompson
JACQUELYN TROTTER
Donna Wiltsie
ALEXANDER WEST
Carolyn Shelton
CHARLES WILLIAMS
James and Ida Jo Daughtry
SOARING WITH EXCELLENCE: PHFC’S PATH TO EAGLE REACCREDITATION FOR 2025
Since 2017, the Presbyterian Home for Children has held EAGLE Accreditation, the highest standard for a faith-based organization serving children, youth and families. We were reaccredited for the prestigious honor in 2020.
Because accreditation is renewed on a four-year cycle, it’s time again for PHFC to go through the process to maintain accreditation with Educational Assessment Guidelines Leading toward Excellence (EAGLE), the only faith-based accrediting body in the United States for ministry to children, youth, families, and older adults.
2024-2025 will be a busy year as our staff prepares the arduous documentation to maintain accreditation.
Accreditation is a formal recognition of high performance standards, long-term sustainability, and stewardship. But Doug Marshall, President and CEO of the Home, said EAGLE Accreditation does more. “EAGLE Accreditation also assures the organization is operating in a manner that is representative of their faith foundation,” Marshall said. “EAGLE challenges organizations to soar above the competition while living their faith values.”
The Home’s leadership is up to the task of receiving EAGLE reaccreditation. After all, our president, Marshall, helps support other organizations seeking EAGLE accreditation or reaccreditation as both a peer reviewer and member of the EAGLE Accreditation Commission. He is also on the executive committee of the Methodist Ministries Network, which is the sponsoring organization of EAGLE.
“We commend the Presbyterian Home for Children’s governing board, leadership and staff for their commitment to EAGLE excellence,” said Mary Kemper, President and CEO of Methodist Ministries Network. “We also appreciate the organization’s strong contributions to the EAGLE review process.”
Stephani Burton, Vice President of People, Culture, and Administration; and Carl Martin, Director of Finance and Operations, have completed training to be EAGLE peer reviewers and will be serving at-risk children and youth in other parts of the country through accreditation teams starting this spring.
A review team will visit the Presbyterian Home for Children in September 2025 as part of the reaccreditation process.
PHFC’s Carl Martin and Executive Committee members Brandon Miles, Carol Copeland, and Lisa deShazo.
HONOR GIFTS
RECEIVED MAY 2024 THROUGH AUGUST 2024
SPECIAL HONORS
In Honor Of JO BETH HURT on her birthday
Charles & Rosemary Jager
In Honor Of LINDA PROUDFOOT on her birthday
Emmett and Linda Proudfoot
In Honor Of JANIS WILLIAMS on her birthday
Tom and Sharon Hudson
Josephine Tucker
Celebrating ALBERT SPROUSE AND SUSAN SAYLOR on their wedding
William and Catherine Garretson
Celebrating TED AUTTERSON on his dedication and service to the Home
Jane Carson Sims
HONORARIUM CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE PRESBYTERIAN HOME FOR CHILDREN ARE LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER WITH THE NAME OF THE HONOREE IN CAPITAL LETTERS FOLLOWED BY THE DONORS’ NAMES AND, IF STATED, THE OCCASION.
SUZANNE CORNETT
REV. MICHAEL BAILEY
William Pool
BOOZER, MARIANI
AND MATHEWS FAMILIES
Lana and Jerry Boozer
JENNIE BORUCK
Mary Mastrangelo
MICHELE S. BROWN
Cynthia Sims
CHAZEL CAPITO AND VIRGINIA KENDRICK
Peggy and John St. Clair
BETTY CHAPMAN
Gregory and Laura Chapman
ANITA CLEMONS
George Fritsma
CAROL COPELAND
Matthew & Diann Copeland
Suzanne Dowling
DMR. AND MRS. CARMELO DELUCA
Shirley Hinton
HAYNE AND CINDY HOLLIS
David Jamison
REV. ALEXANDRA HUTSON
Swift Presbyterian Church L
WALTER JIM LAWRENCE
David Jamison
THE LORD'S WORK
Steve and Ginna Siniard
MASSANTI AND ABBY MILLER
Barbara Hicks
SHARON MOORE
Tammy Mentzer and Patrick Brown
MOTHER
Anne Whitfield N
PAT NUNNELLEY
Ken and Lucie Nelson
SCHOOL TEACHERS
John Spears T
MENDY AND ROBBIE TURNIPSEED
Joseph Rives
MARJORIE WILLIAMS, STANLEY WILLIAMS, TOMMY WILLIAMS AND DANNY WILLIAMS
Donald Lacy
JANIS WILLIAMS
William Shouse
DONNA WINN
Elna Morrow
scornett@phfc.org
P.O. BOX 577
TALLADEGA, AL 35161
FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS
facebook.com/phfc.alabama
instagram.com/presbyterian_home_for_children youtube.com/@presbyterianhomeforchildre5945
PLEASE USE THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE FOR CONTRIBUTIONS OR ADDRESS CORRECTIONS. ENCLOSE THE MAILING ADDRESS PRINTED ABOVE WITH YOUR REQUEST.
HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE—ONE PROJECT AT A TIME!
Looking for a meaningful group activity? Join us at the Presbyterian Home for Children and be part of transforming lives right here on campus! From landscaping and light construction to admin support and vehicle cleaning, we have projects for every age and skill level. Roll up your sleeves, and let’s make an impact together!
“Volunteer for a couple of hours, make a day of it, or even bring a group over for a few days! We can help connect you with nearby housing and other attractions to check out while you visit Talladega.”
SUZANNE CORNETT, MANAGER OF DONOR RELATIONS AND VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Interested? Reach out to Suzanne at scornett@phfc.org or (256) 362-8284 to schedule your volunteer day.
