The Magazine of the CHRISTIAN APPALACHIAN PROJECT
CAP Remembers Mike Sanders 1950-2003
P u b l i s h e d b y th e C h r i s t i a n A p p a l a c h i a n Project
The Magazine o f the C H R IS T IA N A P P A L A C H IA N P R O J E C T JUNE - AUGUST 2003, VOLUME THREE
22,
NUMBER
Managing Editor J e n n if e r L a v e n d e r
Reporter/Layout/Design C a r la D a v is
features
A dv is or y Board: B e n P r e w it t, L i n v il le R o s e , R o d n e y M ir a c le
6 CAP Remembers Mike Sanders
T h e M o u n t a i n S p i r i t is p u b lis h e d f o u r tim e s a y e a r . T h e a n n u a l s u b s c r ip t io n p r ic e is $ 8 .0 0 . S u b s c r ip t io n s a n d o t h e r c o r r e s p o n d e n c e s h o u ld be s e n t to Th e M o u n t a i n S p i r i t , C h r is t ia n A p p a la c h ia n P r o je c t, 3 2 2 C ra b O rc h a rd S t r e e t, L a n c a s te r , KY 4 0 4 4 6 . C o p y r ig h t , 2 0 0 1 , T h e C h r is tia n A p p a la c h ia n P r o je c t, In c . A ll r ig h t s r e s e r v e d . M e m b e r, C a th o lic P r e s s A s s o c ia t io n . T h e C h r is t ia n A p p a la c h ia n P r o je c t is a n o n p r o f it C h r is t ia n s e r v ic e o r g a n iz a t io n o p e r a t in g t h r o u g h o u t A p p a la c h ia . T h e p r o je c t o p e r a t e s on th e p h ilo s o p h y t h a t h e lp in g p e o p le h e lp th e m s e lv e s is th e b e s t a p p ro a c h to A p p a la c h ia n p o v e rty . T h e C h r is t ia n A p p a la c h ia n P r o je c t is r e c o g n iz e d by th e In te r n a l R e v e n u e S e r v ic e as a 5 0 1 ( c ) ( 3 ) c h a r it a b l e o r g a n iz a t io n a n d is q u a lif ie d to r e c e iv e ta x d e d u c tib le c o n t r ib u tio n s .
Memories of Mike from those closest to him
I 6 CAP’S Camp Scrapbook by Elisabeth McGuire Capturing camp memories that will last a lifetime
19 The Magic Comes Alive by Jennifer Lavender CAP summer camps create magic in the hills of Appalachia
20 Bock to School by Jennifer Lavender Outreach helps area children get ready for school
22 A Closer Look: Rejoice Respite by Carla Davis A closer look reveals more than a break for caregivers. Respite approaches their mission with the whole person and family in mind.
26 A Literacy Student with a Message by Sharon Crosby
Adult Education Student Thomas Spragg shares his ideas on education, religion in a no nonsense way.
28 First Impressions by Sharon Crosby Experience Eastern Kentucky through the eyes of a CAP Volunteer
in every issue Correction: In the last issue (Spring 03) the phone number for information about volunteer opportunities was misprinted on page 21. The correct phone number is 1- 800 - 755 - 5322 . We apologize for this mistake. On the cover___________________ - *
From the President’s D esk
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Chaplain’s Corner
4
A round the Project
10-13
CAP President Mike Sanders
AC' 2
Your Letters
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A summary of the registration and financial documents filed by this organization can be obtained by contacting: in Maryland, for the cost of postage and copying, documents and information filed under Maryland charjtable organizations laws can be obtained from the Secretary of State, Charitable Division, State House, Annapolis, MD21401; In Virginia, Financial statements are available from the State Division of Consumer Affairs, P .0. Box 1163, Richmond, V A 23218; In Washington, Information relating to the Christian Appalachian Project’s financial affairs is available from the Secretary of State, and the toll-free number for Washington residents: 1800-332-4483; In Mississippi, The official registration and financial information of the Christian Appalachian Project may be obtained from the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office by calling 1-888-236-6167. Registration by the Secretary of State does not imply endorsement; IN NEW YORK, A copy of the latest annual report can be obtained from the organization or from the Office of the Attorney General by writing the Charities Bureau, 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271; IN NEW JERSEY, Information filed with the Attorney General concerning this charitable solicitation may be obtained from the Attorney General of the State of New Jersey by calling 973-504-6215; Registration with the Attorney General does not imply endorsement; IN PENNSYLVANIA, The OFFICAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF (Christian Appalachian Project), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF STATE BY CALLING TOLL-FREE, WITHIN PENNSYLVANIA, 1 (800) 732-0999. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT; IN WEST VIRGINIA, West Virginia residents may obtain a summary of the registration and financial documents from the Secretary of State, State Capitol, Charleston, WV 25305 Registration with the Attorney General does not imply endorsement; IN FLORIDA, THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALL TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE AT 800-435-7352, REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE SC-0009; IN NORTH CAROLINA, FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND A COPY OFTHE LICENSE ARE AVAILABLE FROMTHE STATE SOLICITATION LICENSING BRANCH AT 1-888830-4989, OR OUTSIDE THE STATE AT 919-807-2214; THE LICENSE IS NOT AN ENDORSMENT BY THE STATE; or by writing to Christian Appalachian Project, 6550 South KY Rt. 321, P.0. Box 459, Hagerhill, KY 41222. Our license number in Michigan is MICS9933. Registration with any of the above government agencies does not imply endorsement by the state.
The Mountain Spirit
A Great Loss for Appalachia: CAP President Mike Sanders dies Michael “Mike” Sanders, President of the Christian Appalachian Project, died July 15, 2003 at age 53. His death comes after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born April 8, 1950, in Eastern Kentucky, Mike served his country with the United States Army, including a tour in Vietnam in 1969. Mike joined the Christian Appalachian Project in August of 1983. He started as a Supervisor, then Director, and Senior Director for the Eastern Kentucky human service programs. These programs included outreach, elderly visitation, spouse abuse center, used clothing stores, children’s camps, family and child development centers. Mike was named acting President in December of 1995 and elected by the Christian Appalachian Project’s Board of Directors as the permanent President in March of 1996. Mike provided leadership by example through his positive attitude, his “hands on” style of work ethic, his
sincere concern for others, his strong faith, his courage, and his dedication to the people and the Appalachian Region he loved. In addition to his CAP duties, Mike gave of his time and talents to many non-profit boards, organizations and several local/regional committees. “Each of us, on the board of CAP, wishes to express to Mike’s family our deepest sympathy and to thank them for Mike and his years of service to CAP and the people of Appalachia. His integrity, dedication, enthusiasm, and love of the Lord will be remembered by all who knew him.” Jerome O’Daniel, Chairman of the Board with the Christian Appala chian Project. Mike’s passion for helping others came from his deep Christian faith. Even in his last days, Mike was not asking for God to cure him but to help those in Appalachia who were less fortunate than himself. We will miss Mike greatly, but our work at CAP must go on. All of us here at CAP must continue to do our best in fulfilling Mike’s dream of a better Appalachia. With hearts saddened by loss, but with unwavering trust in God, we place Mike in His hands. We are so grateful to have known Mike; he loved CAP’S ministry of helping others with a hand up. Mike left his handprints on CAP and on the many lives he personally touched. We will all miss his leadership, but be forever inspired by his courage and compassion.
Christian Appalachian Project
June - August 2003
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by richard ginn
chaplain’s corner
Heaven: I w ant to go there! Several years ago, wMe working in a ChristianYouth All ten of the sins mentioned in verses 9 and 10 have Camp in Tennessee, we sang a song practically every evening been dealt with. Paul speaks of them being in the at vespers. The song goes: “Heaven is a wonderful place, past. How did this happen? He then says, “You filled with glory and grace - 1want to see my Savior’s face, were washed, you were sanctified, you werejustified Heaven is a wonderful place.. .1want to go there.” in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit U.S. News and WorldReport commented on a 1990 ofour God.” survey which indicated that 78 percent of Americans believed Who will be in Heaven? Those who belong in Heaven - and believed they were going to get there. By to Christ. those numbers we can easily surmise that a large majority of When Charles Wesley, the founder of the Americans “want to go there.” Methodist Church, was a young man he admittedly In one of Charles Schulz’s Peanuts comic strips, Linus was very sectarian and very judgmental. He thought and Charlie Brown are engaged in a serious conversation. ‘1 he and the people who agreed with him were the only have a theological question,” says Linus, “When you die, and ones going to Heaven. Everybody else was go to Heaven, are you graded on a percentage or on a curve?’ probably going to hell. “On a curve, naturally,” Charlie responds. Then one night years later Wesley dreamed Linus asks puzzledly, ‘‘How that he was standing at the gates can you be so sure?’ of hell, and he decided to find out Charliebrightly answers, who was in there. So he cupped ‘I ’m always sure about things that his hands and yelled, “Are there are a matter of opinion.” any Presbyterians in there?” Now, if most of us want to Back came the answer, ‘Yes!’’ go to Heaven, how do we know ‘Well, are there any who’s going to be there? Have you Baptists in there? ’ Back came ever wondered about that or ever the answer, ‘Yes!” asked what kind ofpeople will be Are there any Episcopa there? One thing we know is what lians in there?” ‘Yes!” came kind of people will not be there. the answer. The Apostle Paul wrote to the It took a lot of nerve for Corinthian Church and said in him to do it, but finally he asked, I Corinthians 6, “Do you not know ‘Well, are there any Methodists that the wicked will not inherit the in there?’ ‘Yes!” came the kingdom of God? Do not be answer. deceived: Neither the sexually Suddenly, in his dream, immoral noridolaters nor adulterers he found himself before the Richard Ginn, CAP Chaplain nor male prostitutes nor homo gates of heaven. So he decided sexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor to try the same procedure there. slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.’’ “Are there any Presbyterians in Heaven?” I think I’ll go out on a limb and say probably most of “No!” came the answer. us have friends or know of individuals of whom that scripture, “Any Baptists in there?” “No!” came the answer. in one point or another, might describe. Now, all this being true, is there any hope for us or those individuals we know “Any Episcopalians in there?” “No!” who fall in this category? It was just a dream, but once again he got up Paul, very plainly says to the Corinthian congregation, his nerve to ask, “Are there any Methodists in there?” “No!” came the answer. “I don’t want you to be deceived. I want you to realize that ‘Well then, pray tell who is in there?” asked these people will not inherit the Kingdom of God. They will not be in Heaven.” By that verse we can know assuredly who Wesley. Back came the answer, “Christians, we’re only Christians here. Just Christians.” willnotbeinHeaven,can’twe? Or can we?’ Heaven - 1want to go there! Well - Heaven Verse 11 gives hope to all who thought they were too is for Christians!!!!! bad to be in heaven: ‘‘And that is what some of you were.’’
The Mountain Spirit
Mike Sanders Michael G. Sanders—friend, mentor, devoted family man, President of the Christian Appalachian Project is gone. Stinging words. Words that one could hardly comprehend in the hours following his death. Words that sent a shock wave throughout the non-profit world and made headlines throughout Kentucky. At work, it was hard to find some thing to say. The person who died was one of his best friends and CAP’s chaplain, Richard Ginn. Richard’s thoughts comforted us all the day after Mike’s death. “Dear Friends,” he wrote, “as all of you are probably aware by now, our friend Mike has died. The Bible records a long list of men who have lived and died. But, suddenly, the list is interrupted by a man whose end is described this way, For God Took Him. My point being—Death did not take him. Cancer did not take him. Old age did not take him. Time did not take him. Deterioration and decadence did not take him. Satan did not take him. But as Genesis 5:24 says, ‘God took him.’ “I believe that God took Mike, and I thank God that he loaned Mike to us for the short period we had him. To those of us who loved him, we look forward with anticipation to the day we will see him again. “Remember to let those people in your life, whom you love, know they make your life more meaningful.” These words penned by Richard Ginn helped us to move forward. We all knew that was what
Mike would have wanted. Through his memories he was still here; at the water cooler, on a home repair site, in the hall, or on the loading dock. We focused on these memories and began to share with one another. The talk was about Mike Sanders—leader, prankster, great storyteller and lover of life. These words used to describe him over and over—respected, compassionate, down-to-earth, dedicated, hopeful. And everyone who had the privilege of knowing him had a story to tell. Stories about pranks, funny incidents and good times. Stories about hard work performed with perspective and light heartedness that defined Mike’s work at CAP for the past 20 years and propelled him into the leadership role that he perfected over the past seven years as the President and CEO of CAP. Ken Slone, Manager of Operation Sharing in Hagerhill, knew Mike and worked with him for thirteen years. His stories capture the essence of the person Mike Sanders was at work. “The first time I spoke to Mike, I was a forklift operator in the Operation Sharing program,” began Ken. “The forklift was down, and my manager,
Mike was always a “hands on”kind o f man. The Mountain Spirit
Judy Crum, told me to call Mike who was a Director at the time, and tell him we needed to get a forklift over here.” “Well, I had just started my job, and I was kind of nervous about calling the Director, but I did it any way because I was told to. When I got Mike on the phone, I managed to explain to him that our forklift wasn’t working, and he shot back, ‘I don’t have time to fool with you or your forklift.’ Well, I was so taken aback that I just said, ‘OK’ and hung up. Mike immediately called back, and, through his laugh ter, told me he was just joking, and he would make sure that we got a working forklift.” Another time, Ken recalled, a surprise birthday party was planned for Judy Crum. Mike agreed to help pull it off by getting her away from her office. He called Judy and told her he needed her to come to his office and bring all of her paperwork. Then, he kept her there, pretending she was in trouble, until time for the party. “Mike had a great sense of humor,” Ken said. “Humor was a big part of his philosophy. He believed you should enjoy what you’re doing, help people, do what’s right and have a good time doing it.” Ken also recalled that, every year, Mike helped unload the Christmas gifts that came in to Operation Sharing. “Sometimes, we had to work all night to get the trucks unloaded,” Ken said. “But he was there with a smile on his face and ready to have a good time, which was very moti vating to other employees. We all had a good time.” Ken, like so many others at CAP, could sit and talk about Mike all day. That’s the kind of person Mike was. A person who, upon thinking of him, brings a story to one’s remembrance that causes a smile to break out all across one’s face. * * He was the type of leader who, when he was physically able, was willing to work alongside employees, volunteers and participants. Many times, while visiting programs, he was seen pitching in to help with anything that needed doing, whether it was moving a truck, sawing a board or playing the ghost runner on second base at a youth and teen center wiffle ball game. Mike made it his job to make sure people felt comfortable around him. Those who worked with him will never forget that he spoke to everyone as he walked down the hall while visiting CAP’S satellite offices. And, if someone wasn’t out in the hall, he would peek his head into their office to say ‘hello’. Yes, Mike was a man with a good sense of humor, but he was also serious about the values he held dear. He was a Christian man, a man of good moral character, a man who trusted and believed in his employees, a man i f i i i IMF l l f f
who felt a civic responsibility to his community and a man who deeply loved and doted on his family. Most of all, though, to those who knew him at work, he was a man who loved Appalachia. He grew up in Appalachia and he knew, firsthand, the hardships Appa lachians face. He was a man who unwaveringly devoted his career to the cause of fighting poverty in Appalachia. He believed with all of his being in C A P’s m ission, and he was serious about his com m itm ent to it. Mike never tired in his work on behalf of CAP and the people it serves, nor did his enthusiasm wane in his last days. His hope for a better day for A ppalachia kept him focused, and he feverishly spread that hope to all those who came near him. At employee meetings about two months before his death, Mike, for the last time in person, shared that hope with CAP employees. “We are striving to work ourselves out of a jo b ,” he said. “That should be our goal, and it should be our hope that, one bright day, the services we provide will no longer be needed in A ppalachia.” Through it all, Mike never lost the vision or his sense of humor. He never stopped hoping for recovery and he never stopped hoping for a better day for Appala chia. One week before his death, his final words to CAP’s employees and volunteers were directed toward the future and came in the form of a letter. “ ...A s we head into the future, CAP will continue to focus on our m ission and our guiding principles for our daily direction. We all work toward a common goal here, to help the people of Appalachia * 8 H n :. ■ help them selves and to serve the Lord by helping in His work. I miss you all and cannot wait until my return. God Bless.” At his funeral, it was again C A P’s Chaplain who found the words to say. Facing a sanctuary overflowing with family and friends, Richard Ginn quietly spoke. “I love Mike Sanders. He is the best friend I ever had. All the CAP em ployees and volunteers who were blessed to have known him will miss him. Today, we sorrow with the family. Recently I read this. It comes from the book September about death. I thought it was something that Mike would have said:” rs
Mike addresses the crowd June - August 2003
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Reflections
Pictured above are Rodney Miracle, Richard Ginn and Mike relaxing under an oak tree.
“Death is nothing at all. It doesn ’t count. I have only slipped away into the next room. Nothing has happened. Everything remains exactly as it was. I am I, and you are you, and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak o f me in the easy way in which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no air o f sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think o f me, and pray fo r our family. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without an effort, without a ghost o f a shadow upon it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolute and unbroken continuity. What is death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out o f mind because I am out o f sight? I am but waiting fo r you, fo r an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well with my soul. ” For all of those who knew him intimately, were his friend or cared about the poverty conditions in Appalachia, M ike’s spirit will never die because his hope will remain alive in our hearts. And, one day, because of the hope we have in Christ Jesus, the anchor of the soul, we will see him again. Until then, we miss you, too, Mike and cannot wait until we can laugh again with you. God Bless.
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Having worked with Mike over the last few years, I felt of him more as a friend than as a boss. One of the things I remember most about Mike was his ability to find humor in situations. Mike was in a high stress position but because he was able to laugh with others as well as laugh at himself, he managed the stress. I also admired his faith and courage in facing his illness. He truly allowed the light of Christ to shine through. Mike faced his illness with courage, he never showed fear of the unknown because he knew his God was in control. In the Garth Brooks song “The Dance,” the line goes, I could have missed the pain but I would have missed the dance. Mike danced and we who knew him are the better because of it. Rodney Miracle CAP Director of Planned Giving Mike Sanders’ death brings great sadness to all the employees and volunteers of Christian Appalachian Project. His death brings sadness to CAP’S wonderful and generous donors, who got to know Mike through his letters and his book —sadness to all who knew and respected him so much. Mike was dedicated to the people of Appalachia and his ministry was truly to do everything possible to help people in need. His integrity, dedication, enthusiasm and love of the Lord will be remembered by all who came in contact with him. Each of us, on the board of CAP, wishes to express to Mike’s family our deepest sympathy and to thank them for Mike and his years of service to CAP and to the people of Appala chia. Jerome B. O’Daniel CAP Board of Directors
Mike Sanders life story ’
Now Available written less than a year ago
Trust in God: It’s in His Hands You’ll be uplifted by Mike’s words of praise and thanksgiving that have remained a constant throughout his lifetime. With humble beginnings in the coal camp of Majestic, Mike gives the glory of his success as CAP President to God. Even throughout his fearless battle against colon cancer, he remains steadfast in his faith as he lives by the creed of surrendering all of this world to Him.
Request your free copy today! Or if you wish, you may send a donation to C A P ’S G eneral Fund or to the M ike Sanders M em orial Fund. Sim ply com plete the portion below and mail to:
Christian Appalachian Project Direct Mail P.O. Box 511 Please detach on the dotted line and mail to the address above
□ □ □
Lancaster, Kentucky 40444-0511
Please send me a free copy of Mike Sanders’ compelling life story featured in Trust in God: It’s in His Hands I have enclosed a donation of_____ ______ for CAP to continue its mission of helping the poor in Appalachia I have enclosed a donation o f ____________ for the Mike Sanders Memorial Fund.
Name__________________________________________ _____________________________ Address-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------City ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------State_______________________________ Zm________________ Phone________________
tnssum03
Pictured above are, from left to right, Jennifer Webb, Susan Webb, Wanda Webb, Phyllis Dingus and Bill Williams, (photo submitted by Delinda H uff)
Home dedication held a t East Point, Ky. To celebrate a new home with old friends, Wanda Webb, 70, of East Point, was the honored recipient of a new home during a home dedication. The Christian Appalachian Project (CAP) hosted the event, which saw over 30 attendees, most of whom were fellow members of the Little Paint Church of God. The celebration’s purpose was twofold: to welcome Mrs. Webb to her new home and to openly invite her to continue to include love and Christ as a cornerstone for a peaceful, loving home. Maintaining a Christian lifestyle and home is no stranger to Mrs. Webb; in fact, she could probably teach us all a few lessons on humility and gratitude. “When you think of the ideal Christian, Mrs. Webb comes to mind,” said CAP Housing Technician Delinda Huff. “Countless times through the home building process she has said to me, ‘If you find someone else who needs the home more, give it to them!”’ Apparently no other recipient was more in need. Unfortunately for Mrs. Webb, the former home’s only means of heat remained as outdated as the home itself.
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A huge coal stove sat in the comer, with poorly insulated windows that produced heavy draff during winter. To repair such an old home would be even more costly than to build a new one. “The condition of her old home was bad,” said CAP Housing Manager Mike Wiley. “The roof was leaking, the windows and doors were not energy efficient. The home was not safe to live in.” Thanks to funding provided by the Low Income Housing Coalition of East Kentucky, Inc. (LINKS) and the Kentucky Housing Corporation, as well as physical labor from CAP Crewleader Mike Powers and CAP volunteers Laura Wick and Heather Rhodes, the two-bedroom, one bath home went from raw materials to reality in littlemore than five months. Now Mrs. Webb can enjoy a level of comfort in her golden years she never could in her former home. She will also utilize a minimum monthly payment plan payable to the Kentucky Housing Corporation. ‘My husband and I have always loved the land,” she said “But we never got around to improving our home or buying a doublewide like we wanted. This new home isjust unbelievable.”
The Mountain Spirit
Front row: Pat Coakley, Joe Tobin, and Juanita Eaton. Back row: Sharon Crosby, Rick Gutkowski and Jessie McCauley (Photo by Kiara Klister)
CAP commissions new volunteers A group of long-term volunteers was tempo rarily housed in the Renfro Valley Volunteer House on Sunday, June 15th, to start a weeklong orientation and relationship building. The orientation covered everything from CPR to introductions to CAP’s programs and people. When they were not in training, they were treated to some shopping and some cultural events in Berea, KY. Also during the week, they went [ through CAP’s driving enhancement training and they took their driving test. The high point of the week was the Friday night Commis- | sioning Service, which was held at Our Lady of Mt. Vernon Catholic Church. Sherry Allen, Assistant Director of the Volunteer Program, spoke on the three fold Life that the volunteers were entering: Service, Community, and Spirituality. Jessie McCauly, one of June - August 2003
the volunteers had this to say about the commission ing service. “For me, the commissioning service was simply beautiful. Throughout orientation we heard how appreciative everyone is that we are here, but it wasn’t until the service that I realized how much that is tme and how much we all were accepted into the family of the Christian Appalachian Project. Thanks to all that came to show us the love of that family and the love of the Lord.” The commissioning service ended with the prayer recited by the volunteers. A line from it, which asks the Lord to use us in a way that we reflect your great love in all we do. In the end everyone came by to individually welcome | the new volunteers with a ^ handshake or a hug and the sound of joy and laughter could be heard throughout the church.
Pictured left to right are: Russell Dunne, Volunteer Instructor, Doris Grant, Instructor, Misty Newby, Barbara Hall, James Frost, Glenda Allen, Marshall Thompson, Valerie Kirby, Joyce Hoover, Eric Isaac, Earnest Gadd, Jr., Amanda Childers, Cortney Cook, Janet Heinz, Instructor, and Keith Gilbertson, Instructor.
GED Graduates celebrate success Almost thirty-two years after dropping out of school, Barbara Hall walked across a stage and received her General Equivalency Diploma amid the shouts and whistles of friends and relatives. Barbara was one of fifty-seven members of the Christian Appalachian Project’s graduating class of 2003, eleven of whom attended the graduation ceremony held May 29, at the Rockcastle County High School. Speakers at this year’s graduation included Rockcastle County Attorney Jeffrey Burdette and Somerset Community College representative Marty Crowder. Both speakers offered praise for the determination and commitment demonstrated by graduates, and both challenged them to continue to pursue their educational and career goals.
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Mr. Burdette shared how growing up in Rockcastle County has shaped his vision for the county’s future and he thanked this year’s graduates for being role models for the community. Marty Crowder talked about being turned down for jobs that she really liked due to her dropping out of high school to get married and start a family. This led her to eventually enroll in an adult education program where she earned her GED. Marty went on to receive an Associates degree from Somerset Community College where she now works with the Educational Opportunity Center to assist non-traditional students in furthering their education. She stated that earning her GED was the first step toward a career she loves, then she interjected a note of humor by reminding Mr. Burdette that she had once been turned down for a position in his office.
The Mountain Spirit
Ruby Alcorn, a participant o f CAP) Garden Seed Program, a program that provides seed, fertilizer and other necessary items to raisefreshly grown produce.
Ruby Alcorn's Garden of Plenty submitted by Elisabeth McGuire It is summer time and the gardens are growing. Someone who knows this very well is Ruby Alcorn who is a participant in CAP’S Garden Seed Program. She is 72 years old and has been a part of CAP since 1965 and with this specific program since the beginning in 1980 when a husband and wife and a team of volunteers began the Garden Seed Program. Originally one hundred families participated in the program, but that number has grown to include 800 families CAPwide. When Ruby was in eighth grade she fell and was in a coma. When she woke she discovered she could no longer remember information the way she used to and had to drop out of school. When she was almost sixty years old she went to the University of Kentucky to see a specialist about headaches. Ruby began taking a medication and realized she was able to remember information once again. Since she was already familiar with CAP, she began taking education classes while raising a June - August 2003
grandchild from one of her nine children. It took her six years to achieve a twelfth grade education and to pass her equivalency test. Since Ruby was retired she also took the time to tend to the garden that she raises twice a summer with the seeds provided to her by CAP. During the summer Ruby grows com, beans, lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, onions, potatoes, and green beans in her garden in Rockcastle County. This summer she has seen potatoes that weigh between a pound and a pound and a half and lettuce that kept growing no matter what. Ruby said that whatever doesn’t fit in the freezer she sells to the local jail. This year her lettuce sold for $150 and will go to feed 100 people. She says one of the greatest benefits of being involved in this program is to grow food for other people to eat. She leads an incredibly busy life with her grandson, who is now fifteen, a twenty acre farm, her garden, and countless numbers of other activities, but Ruby loves her life and what she does. “Trust in the Lord and live for Him, and you’ll never want for anything.” 13
Jerry and Leandra Allen work together building a birdhouse during JobStart’s Family Fun Night.
Working together means lots o f fam ily fun There’s nothing like donning a tool belt “Family Fun Nights create an atmosphere of and fixing up something new. This sentiment trust,” she said. “Hopefully husbands and boyfriends was exactly what JobStart Manager Bobbie realize that our program is not designed to take away Playforth had in mind when she offered each from the family, but rather it includes all members of JobStart participant a free toolbox during a the family.” Family Fun Night held June 19. In all, 49 adults and children took part in the night’s events, which included minor home repair techniques given by Geoff Barrett of CAP’s Housing Program. Geoff also provided the material for each participant to hone their handicraft skills by making birdfeeders. The evening’s events were geared toward getting families together for a little fun and a little work toward something worthwhile. To JobStart Manager Bobbie Playforth, the evening’s events were fun, but more importantly, they imparted a special message to the husbands and boyfriends of participants.
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The Mountain Spirit
WELCOME HOME! Picturedfrom left to right are Rhoda Blevins, Ryan Blevins, Ronald Blevins, all CAP Housing Program participants, and Robert Moore, CAP Housing Crewleader. (Photo by Elisabeth McGuire)
Home dedication held fo r Blevins fa m ily While cleaning up some debris from the construction of a new house, CAP Crewleader Robert Moore found a rusty old nail in the gravel. “It looks exactly like an old Jesus nail,” remarked Robert, holding it up to the light. The nail was rusty, but it sported an unforget table spike-like shape that reminded its viewer of the nails in the house that God built. “It took a lot of nails to build this house,” continued Robert. “Some 16s, some 8s, some roofing nails. But the thing that matters most is love.” With those words, Robert presented Ronald and Rhoda Blevins, and their son Ryan, with an heirloom-quality family Bible,wrapped in a maroon brocade cover that perfectly matched Rhoda’s winecolored lace curtains and newly decorated walls. The presentation took place during a home dedication held July 17, at the newly-built three bedroom ranch style home situated neatly on the right fork of Williams Branch in Wittensville, Kentucky. The home was built in a little over two months
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with the help of CAP workers, volunteers and two church groups that offered one week apiece of manual labor toward the project. The Christian Association of Primetimers and the World Evangelistic Church out of Louisville both lent their time and talents toward the completion of the home. Additionally, funding was provided by the Kentucky Housing Corporation and plumbing facilities were donated by American Standard Corpo ration. But to new homeowner Ronald Blevins, who was living in an older model mobile home just prior to the completion of the home, it’s a dream that has come true. “We’ve never had anything that hasn’t been lived in before,” Ronald Blevins stated, who had been helping out on the site since construction began in early May. “I could tell you where every two-by-four is in this house!” Through tears, he graciously accepted the Bible, a certificate of completion of homeownership from Housing Manager Mike Wiley, and the gentle words spoken by several well-wishers who attended.
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The story of Nina Isaacs by Elisabeth McGuire
Once again it is time for shorts, swimsuits, bug repellent, and the wonderful tradition of going to camp. Every year children from all over the area head to Camp Andrew Jackson, Camp Shawnee (both overnight camps) and Rockcastle and Pathfinders Day Camps for fun in the sun and the making of friendships and memories. While at camp the chil dren enjoy activities such as canoeing, arts and crafts, hiking, swimming, drama, and Bible studies. Camp Andrew Jackson, the longest running camp, was begun by CAP founder Father Ralph W. Beiting over 30 years ago. What most people do not realize is that God has sent an angel to Camp Andrew Jackson for seventeen of those years and counting in the form of Nina (pronounced Nine-ah) Isaacs. She is the cook at Camp AJ, situated in Jackson County, Kentucky. Nina’s first camp was in 1986 when the food service director had contacted all the cafeteria man agers in the area and asked if they would be inter ested in coming to camp for one summer. Nina was (and still is) working at the Jackson County High School cafeteria and had thought it would be a good idea and fun. When asked why she has returned for so many years, she said, “All these counselors come
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in from all over the United States and you get to see how much love they give for these kids here in one week. It makes you want to come back.” Every day of camp she prepares three meals and two snacks for over 60 campers, counselors, and staff at the camp. Watching her you begin to realize that she has turned cooking for that many people into an art form. She knows exactly how much food to prepare without wasting one bite and her hands move effortlessly with knives and cooking utensils. Not that she is not used to a large amount of people; Camp AJ is small compared to the 500 people she feeds at Jackson County High during the school year. And not once does she ever complain. She absolutely loves what she does. This year Nina was honored for her service to the camp by being given a wooden sign that says “Nina’s Kitchen” which was placed over the window where the campers receive their food. Nina said she was shocked when all this attention was placed on her. She does not like to be in the spotlight and becomes embarrassed when the campers begin to chant “Thank You Cooks” at the top of their lungs. Connie Lakes-Tipton, who works with Nina at Camp AJ said, “I love Miss Nina. She is so sweet and so meek and so humble. She won’t accept any compli ments even when you tell her to her face.” Nina says that she will keep coming for as long as she can because she loves the kids, the counse lors, and it is worth it to her even if she sees them for just one day. “This is the closest place to heaven you’ll get on this earth. There is a lot of magic up here. A lot of love.”
The Mountain Spirit
CAP's Summer Camps Open Up New Worlds For Kids
Around the beginning of June each year, teachers wrap it up, janitors sweep it up, and principals close up the school house doors for the summer. Home for two full months go the kids, backpacks in tow. Around the same time, cabin doors open up, bus engines rev up and the kitchen staff open up shop for the summer. At the poof of the Directors’ marshmallow stick, the magic comes alive for eight weeks of non-stop excitement, fun and learning at CAP’s summer camps. Children who attend the camps consistently record just as much, if not more, fun than if they had hung out with Mickey and Minnie for a week. Counselors come from every comer of the United States, eager to get in on the action and energetic children are bussed in from every comer of the county. For many years, CAP’s camps have been making summer magic up in the ‘hollers’ of Eastern Kentucky. The staff have fine tuned the potion down to a science. It is a mixture of generosity, dedication, love, enthusiasm, prayers and compassion. Once stirred, it culminates into enough bubbly for a whole summer, but still requires a little toil and trouble on the part of the staff. Counselors bring their own unique talents to the experience, sparking a fire in children that creates unforgettable magical moments for all those who are involved. Their efforts certainly bring a special touch to what may otherwise be an uneventful summer break for many underprivileged children in the area. “You all have put the magic back in camp,” noted Nina Issacs, head cook at Camp AJ, to the counselors about their summer sacrifice. CAP believes it is the responsibility of each commu nity to work with families and teachers to take up some of the instruction of our children in the ‘way they should go.’ Camps place an emphasis on teaching morals and values through unconventional methods of learning. Some of
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those methods include sharing stories around a campfire, singing prayer at each meal, working together to row a canoe or expressing their creativity through an arts and crafts project. For many children, a hands on style of learning in an outdoor atmosphere makes learning and discovery overwhelmingly exciting. This year, the theme at camps was Inspiring Spirit in Appalachian Youth. CAP was able to provide that experience for 807 campers from 19 distressed counties in Eastern Kentucky. “For campers it’s all about coming to a place to have fun and forget the worries and pressures in their lives. They get to be kids, act like kids, be loved and learn to care for others,” said Liz Phelps, Camp Coordinator at Camp AJ. She went on to explain the magical feelings evoked by the camp experience. “My favorite quote that I borrow from the unknown author reflects the magic that exists here:” ‘Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Some people move our souls to dance. They awaken us to new understanding with the passing whisper of their wisdom. Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze upon. They stay in our lives for a little while, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same.’ “I just received a letter from a camper today,” Liz commented. “She sent us some pictures she had taken while here and in her letter she wrote, ‘see ya next year’ and ‘I love you all.’” The letters will keep coming all year. The messages they impart are the success stories of these mountain summer camps and the motivation for staff to keep the magic alive for another season.
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Though public education is free for students, the costs of send ing a child back to school alone can set a parent back hundreds of dollars every August. And the list seems to grow ever bigger with each year. Not only do children usually need new clothes and shoes, but they m ust also have a backpack, lunchbox and num erous other necessities. Then there is the teac h er’s list of m ust have school supplies for each child, which, last year, cost one mom $83.00 at WalM art to purchase the list of sup plies for only two children. Top those expenses off w ith the re quired school fees, costs of a
physical and any extracurricular activity fees for a child and it is no w onder that many children in K entucky’s poorest counties start school unprepared. But, thanks to the generosity of many concerned citizens and donors, more than 1,600 CAP participants in eleven Kentucky counties recently received desper ately needed back-to-school help through C A P ’s School R eadiness program . Robyn R enner and Russ Taylor, M anagers of C A P ’s O ut reach Program , supervised the distribution of the supplies. Russ took his participants to W al-M art,
while Robyn set up “going back to school stores” in Jackson and Rockcastle Counties. P articipants shopped through several racks of new clothes and shoes, and a dressing room was provided in the back so parents could be sure the children were choosing clothing item s that fit them . Those b en efit ing from the services varied in age from kindergarten through high school. They were also required to m eet outreach incom e guidelines. In addition to receiving a packet of new school supplies, each child also received one shirt and pair of pants, or a dress, three pairs of underw ear, three pairs of socks, a
by Jennifer Lavender
CAP’s
S
Readiness program helps needy children with back-to-school Some back-to-schoolers “shop”at the Back to School Store held in Annville, Kentucky. (Photos by Jennifer Lavender) 20
necessities The Mountain Spirit
bra if requested and a pair of shoes. H igh School age children received an extra packet of m iscellaneous hygiene item s. Pat Stew art, who is a single m other w ith five children, appreci ated the assistance. “I d o n ’t know w hat I w ould do w ithout the h elp ,” she said. “I t ’s tough providing for five children, so this program is really great for me, it com es in very handy.” CAP staff w orks hard every year to assure that children in C A P ’s O utreach Program can start school on a level playing field with their peers. The staff collects needed item s from w herever they
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can find them , and R obyn keeps an eye out all year for supplies ch il dren need. “The m ore supplies we get donated, the m ore children we can serve,” Robyn said. This year, some of the school supplies were obtained from C A P ’s O peration Sharing program . O pera tion Sharing is one of C A P ’s largest program s. It distributes donated goods to C A P’s hum an services program s and to other non-profit charities and organizations in A ppalachia. Some o f the item s that were collected from O peration Sharing included K leenex tissues, tennis shoes, deodorant, pocket
folders, 3-ring binders, glue sticks, some clothes and shoes, to o th brushes and other personal hygiene items. Two local stores also jo in ed in the generous spirit and blessed CAP w ith one hundred dollar gift certificates each from W al-M art in London, KY and D aw ahares. “Each and every donation tow ard this cause helps us o u t,” said Robyn. “This is an expensive venture, but it is such a needed service we are providing for the com m unity, and we are blessed that God has given us the ability and resources to help these fam ilies and children.”
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Shown above are Respite participant Sandy Shepherd and Renee Bragg, Respite Caseworker. (Photo by Carla Davis)
story and photos by Carla Davis
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The Mountain Spirit
“You have to believe you ’re making a difference.” says Gertrude. Instead of focusing on their illness, you focus instead on how you’re helping the family. That’s what Respite is all about.”
s you make your way to the old mining town of Weeksbury, Kentucky, you are almost car sick by the time you get there. Curve after curve leads you to a final destina tion, the small but clean home of Ola (pronounced O-Lee) Johnson, a cancer patient and dear friend of Respite Case worker Renee Bragg. Renee has worked for Respite for 3 1/2 years, but the bounce in her step coupled with the excitement in her voice makes it seem as if this is her first day on the job. As we make our way up the four-step porch, several small pups jump up on your legs as if looking for a treat. After a quick courtesy knock on the screen door, Renee walks quickly to Ola for a solid but brief hug. “How ya doin’, sis?” Renee asks in her warm, familiar drawl. Ola, who suffers from colon cancer, is having one of her bad days. With hardly the strength to get off her makeshift bed-on-the-sofa, Ola manages to sit up for company. Since undergoing chemotherapy for the past 1 1/2 years, Ola has managed, through the Grace of God, along with loving family members and Renee, to continue living at home. Her youngest son, Jeremiah, shares in the daily responsibili ties of her constant care. Daily, she takes shots that boost her blood count. In addition to this, she suffers from chronic eye infections, one of the side effects of the chemotherapy. But Ola manages to keep a sense of humor while telling the story of when she first wore a wig to her favorite store, Compton’s, and gleaning a compliment or two from acquaintances. “I told them it was a wig,” Ola says with a smile. It is this smile and the attitude behind it that has carried her through some tough times. Doctors told her that she only had eight months left, but Ola has already outlived that prognosis. Now she goes for weekly bloodwork to test for a platelet count, one of the negative side effects of the chemo therapy. To keep busy, Ola sews what is known as “tack” quilts,
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an old fashioned way of piecing together a solid, warm quilt that is not often seen anymore. But Ola has to be careful. With a low platelet count, she is apt to bleed more easily than most if she is stuck with the needle. “I just try to be careful,” she says. “Quilting is a way to take my mind off things.” Although Ola suffers from numerous other problems with her stomach (she must use a colostomy bag) among other things, she manages to keep busy by sewing. “Lots of times the warehouse will get brand-new clothes, but there will be rips in them,” says Renee. “Ola will either sew the piece and use it, or, if the garment cannot be repaired, she’ll rip it up and use it for quilt pieces.” A common misconception of Respite is that the caseworker’s mission is to only give primary caregivers a break. The Respite program involves so much more: Respite Caseworkers serve as a vital link between the caregiver and the outside world. Additionally, the tasks of caring for and staying with a participant exceed its own bounds. Often times, caseworkers must be good listeners and be willing to journey with them to their own private heyday. “I pray with him everyday. He’s a fine man,” Renee says of Don Fraley, Sr., who is bedfast due to multiple problems, mostly Cardio Pulmonary Disease. Mr. Fraley is a very alert 80-year-old man who requires constant care from his loving daughter Sheri, who suffers from back problems and sleeps on a pile of old quilts next to his hospital bed. Sheri, Mr. Fraley’s primary caregiver, is only away from his side when she excuses herself for a quick break on the porch and when Renee is there for her bi-weekly visit. Sheri provides excellent care for her father. In addition to bathing, and feeding, she keeps an ever-vigil watch over him day and night. She keeps a hand-written log of his surgeries, a compilation that comes in handy when he sees the doctor. She also keeps photo albums handy for times when she wants to recall memories with her father. One memory that Mr. Fraley is particularly fond of is his Ford Model A antique car and his 1929 Ford truck. A coal miner for several years, Mr. Fraley would drive his Ford Model A to the mines each morning. Unfortunately, he sold
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both cars when the mines shut down in 1972. It was a tough decision, but one he was forced to make to keep from losing his home. Another misconcep tion of Respite is that its participants are elderly. While by and large, this is the rule, there are excep tions. Sandy Shepherd, 38, has been a participant for 3 1/2 years. Sandy was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis seven years ago and has been in constant care for the past four years. Her loving mother Winnie is the primary caregiver, but twice a month, Renee is the relief for the family. In addition to tending to her ADL’s (activities of daily living), Renee is a listening ear to Sandy as her frustration levels build. Being disabled and bedridden brings with it many emotions that are better when let out. Renee is that person who will listen and talk about Sandy’s frustrations. “I suppose the biggest frustration is the lack of family help,” Renee says about no one in particular. “Lots of times, the participant may have sons or daughters who could help, but they just won’t.” Many times, family caregivers need support as well. This fact is one that is commonly over looked when dealing with a sick or bedfast loved one. The caregiver often times puts their own needs on the backburner, while undertaking the daunting task of caring for a sick mother, father or other close relative. Lossie Jack Newsome suffers from Alzheimer’s. Many times he is combative and requires constant care with feeding. Some days it takes Mr. Newsome hours just to finish off a cup of Ensure and a sandwich. But throughout those hours Tom Copley, Mr. Newsome’s son-in-law, is there, gently coaxing him to eat, or simply talking to him. “I ’m lucky if I get any break at all,” says Tom. He moves around the house like a waiter during a Friday night rush, getting things for Mr. Newsome. In between bites at lunch, Tom will tell a joke or just kid around. Sometimes his antics elicit a smile from Mr. Newsome, sometimes not. But once every two weeks CAP Caseworker Gertrude Moore comes to relieve him. Gertrude, who has been in Respite for ten years, knows that Mr. Newsome is in the final stage of
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A t left. Respite Case worker Renee Bragg is with Respite partici pant Don Fraley and caregiver and daugh ter Sheri Fraley. Be low is Ola Johnson, with one o f her home made tack quilts. (Photos by Carla Davis)
Alzheimer’s, and chooses to focus on the element of linking Tom and other family members to resources provided by other agencies, such as Lovejoy and Prescription Assistance. “You have to believe you’re making a difference.” says Gertrude. “Instead of focusing on their illness, you focus instead on how you’re helping the family. That’s what Respite is all about.”
The Mountain Spirit
A Literacy Student by Sharon Crosby
w ith a Message
“I come to class to learn to read. Well, I can read a thinks everyone should have it, but knows that many little, but I want to get better at it. And learn my take people aren’t as fortunate. When asked how he might aways and times,” explains Thomas Spragg, a literacy help, he mentioned donating some of his shirts and student in CAP’s Adult Education program. sweaters to a church clothing drive. But it was Although Thomas is a man who loves to tell speaking of his kindness to a housemate that brought stories, he says very little about his younger days. His a heart melting grin to his face. One of the other mother pulled him out of school while he was “just a program participants had taken his cup of coffee away kid,” keeping him from learning those basic skills that are from him. Although it is hard to imagine anger being a so important to him now. He admits that his bad temper problem for this gracious man, he admitted, “I was real got him into a lot of trouble and several hospitals. He mad,” But he stayed calm. “Some times somebody else hopes to keep those days behind him. For the past two needs that love and care. I can realize that and they years, Thomas has lived in a residential program for can’t. So I can sit down and hold my cool,” he adults with learning and emotional challenges. “When I explained as he leaned back in the porch swing and first came here, I didn’t believe that anyone would care stretched his arm across its back. He knows he’s come a long way. and help a person like me.” He slowly leans forward, resting his elbows lightly on his knees, intertwining his Whenever Thomas comes to his adult ed class, he long graceful fingers. “I found out that they would.” In brings in one of the many stories that he has written. fact, it was the program staff that taught him letters, Most of them tell of his faith in Jesus. In conversation, numbers and some simple words. When they saw how as well, he often remind his listeners not to forget that quickly he learned, they looked for a community program “Jesus died for our sins,” Although at times, Thomas has thought of being a preacher, right now he is most to help Thomas learn the reading and math that was so determined to get his drivers license. He studies with a important to him. After being rejected by several staff-friend who reads the manual to him, but he hopes programs, they found CAP. that it won’t be long before he’s reading well enough to Having people in one’s life who “care and help” is study on his own. something that Thomas doesn’t take for granted. He
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The Mountain Spirit
Adult Education Student Thomas Spragg shares his ideas on education, religion in a no-nonsense way
First Im pressions by Sharon Crosby Im ages of A ppalachia have been with me for a long time. I had dream ed of teaching underprivileged kids there after college. A lthough I d idn’t know it back in 1970, Father Beiting was already in Eastern K entucky doing some of the work that I ’d hoped to do. For several painful reasons, my Kentucky volun teering becam e a dream deferred, and for the next th irty som ething years God led me in other directions. In A ugust of 2 0 0 2 ,1 packed necessities into my ’93 Buick, gave away the rest, and explored this country of ours. M aine, M issouri, New M exico and then north along the Pacific coast to visit my siblings in California. W hen I found the C hristian A ppalachian P roject on the Internet, those old im ages of barefoot, dust-covered children playing beside the broken porch steps of their decrepit hom es came back to me. Since education is still im portant to me, but my joints are m oving more slowly these days, I decided that instead of teaching children, I ’d try adults. They d o n ’t run
around the room quite as fast. I said goodbye to San Francisco and came to CAP. K entucky is gorgeous! I rejoice each time I see sloping lawns leading to hills overstuffed with v arie gated greens, gathering to create lush m ountains. W hen the spring rains stopped, later than usual this year they say, flow ering bushes with bold pink bloom s, others with sm aller white ones seemed to wave a special welcome to me. I see many fine hom es com plete with swings or w icker furniture on sturdy porches, fresh paint, and carefully tended flow er gardens. Even the older houses in need of painting and patching, often with fenced in yards and swing sets, seem cozy. The children can play, shielded from the speeders that whiz down the narrow tw isting roads. I have no salvation stories to w rite home about. This is not some desperate place that I can rescue from poverty. Nor can I tell of the rough living conditions
The Mountain Spirit
that I will suffer during my stay w ith CAP. I ’ve moved into a very nice home with air-conditioning, a w asher and dryer, good food, and a private room with a com fortable bed. My new housem ates w elcom ed me warmly, helping me get my things out of the car and settled in. My hopes of m artyrdom were destroyed before I even knew that they existed. Now, I can make friends, do a job and leave the salvation to the Lord. There is an atm osphere of acceptance and peace in my new home. I d o n ’t have to dress up or be som ebody I ’m not. I get to laugh at m yself fairly often, as I bump into the K entucky culture. It was fun getting a burger and fries at the M cD onald’s in town one day. My spirits were lifted when the guy at the window sm iled and said, “Have a nice day, honey.” I thought he was flirting. Spending a day to get my official sunshine license plate, I learned that “everybody is ‘honey’ around here” and that I need to relax. I ’d want a worker to stop a personal chat to show me where I needed to go or get the job done for me. But I would have to wait. The conversation would eventually stop, I would be noticed, pleasantly helped and called “honey” . By the tim e I got to my final stop with the registry lady, it was getting late and I was m issing one piece of inform ation. She called the M assachusetts R egistry of M otor Vehicles (th at’s “vee HIC els”) to get the inform ation that we needed. The busy B ostonian w asn’t very helpful. Every request was against the “ru les” . Even so, the call was ended with, “Thank you, honey.
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Have a good day.” I im agined the M assachusetts w orker looking at the receiver in her hand with disbelief. A taste of southern kindness was a shock in Boston, especially on a busy Friday afternoon. Since stepping into Kentucky, I keep apologiz ing for my “northern ears” . They ju st don’t pick up the southern rhythm s and twangs. I had known a woman for several weeks as “J.C .” and w ondered what the initials stood for. But when she wrote me a note and signed it “Jessie” I saw my m istake. I had been told that “I don’t care to ” in Kentucky m eant “I don’t m ind” in New England, then learned that “New E ngland” was an unfam iliar term. W hen GED classes were expanded to stop at 4:30 instead of noon, I was asked several tim es if I was teaching the evening classes. A fter a w hile, I learned to say, “Yes, I ’ll be here until 4:30 instead of noon.” “E vening” in K entucky is “afternoon” in M assachu setts and w e’re not talking about different time zones. There is real poverty here. A lack of both money and education. Sixty-two percent of the adults in M agoffin county don’t have a high school diplom a or equivalent. Many of my students d idn’t go past the eighth grade and some have never been to school at all. The 19-year-old single moms, struggling to pay the bills on their w elfare checks and raise two or three children aren’t ju st statistics. She’s my student. I wake up in the continued on page 30 29
continued from page 29 night wondering how I can help Rita study when she has to bring her kids to class because her sister is sick and can ’t baby sit any more. I pray for a way to tell Joan that i t ’s going to be a long tim e before sh e’s ready to take the GED test and yet keep her com ing to classes. One student spread more encouragem ent the other day than I ever will. He passed his GED test! He could do it. Now the others believe that they can too. A student told me, “I love my kids. They are so im portant to me. But, I wish I ’d w aited to have them. I shoulda gotten my education first. I ’m doing this for them , so I can get a better job and give them a better life. I t ’s ju st so hard, when they need so much of my time, too.” But she was doing it and will soon have her GED and be able to start
the college courses that she has planned for herself, and her ch il dren. I often have down time w aiting for students to arrive. I try to rem em ber to use that tim e for prayer, and som etim es I actually do. One day a new student was with me. She was starting college and had asked me to tutor her so that she would get a good start with her classes. A fter a while our conversa tion w andered and she was telling me about her life and her faith in Christ. She asked me som ething about the Bible, so I got mine out and we looked up some verses. W hen I brought the conversation back to her studies, she asked if we could continue the Bible study because, “Not many people will open the Bible with m e.” So we did. So, now I ’m from Kentucky, and th a t’s why I ’m here!
T HANKS FOR YOUR SUP PORT! Do you know someone who feels a call to serve? Your support and gifts are truly appreciated! Because of your f interest and commitment to the people of Appalachia, we f are hoping you may know of someone who would like to \ / ' ' / / share their time and talent in Eastern Kentucky. / S I
Youth/Teen Centers
Elderly Services Educational & Recreational Programs
Child & Family Development Centers
Respite Services
Job Start
Adult Education
Outreach Services
Housing
M EMBER OF
ffomkds\ Charities
CAP is a member of
America’s Charities
If your employer supports a workplace payroll deduction program, you can now choose to contribute to CAP through America’s Charities. CAP has become a member of America’s Charities, a nationwide federation that provides critically needed human services, reaching millions of Americans in thousands of communities. Through America’s Charities workplace giving campaigns, employees can choose to support their favorite charitable causes from over 100 nationally known non-profit organizations. If you are a military or civilian federal employee, you can choose to contribute to CAP through American’s Charities. CAP’S member number is #0428. For m ore inform ation, please contact: Teresa M cAnly
Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 (859) 792-3051 www. chrisapp. org
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The Mountain Spirit
yo u r letters
Dear Readers, At CAP we are striving to continuously improve our communication with you, our supporters and friends. We want to keep you as informed as possible about what is happening in our organization and enjoy hearing from you about the content of our magazine. If you haven’t sent us your comments and suggestions, we invite you to do so. We need to know how our magazine is doing in providing you up-to-date information about the people and places we all know and love. It is helpful to hear from you about which features you like best and what you would like to see in our magazine in the future. We are also interested in knowing how you are using our magazine. Do you pass it along after you are finished reading it? Do you share it with others? If so, we thank you, and we’d like to know where you leave it. If you would like to pen your thoughts and send them to us, you may do so by mailing them to: The Mountain Spirit, P.O. Box 459, Hagerhill, Kentucky 41222 or you can send an email to jlavender@chrisapp.org. Your comments and suggestions will provide us with the feedback we need to make The Mountain Spirit an even better resource for you. Finally, perhaps you know someone else who may enjoy a subscription to The Mountain Spiritl A friend or family member may appreciate a subscription as a Christmas gift and your gift to CAP is taxdeductible. An order from is provided for you in the middle of the magazine. Simply use it to place your order. It’s that easy. Or if you prefer, you can go online to our website at www.chrisapp.org. Click on the publications link and send your request for an order form. We take your comments and suggestions seriously, and appreciate getting to know our readers a little more personally. Thank you for reading The Mountain Spirit and for your support of our work in Appalachia. In Christ’s Service, Letters to the editor are welcome, but should not exceed 150 words in length. We reserve the right to edit for clarity and brevity.
Please mail your comments to: Jennifer Lavender Editor
Christian A ppalachian Project ATTN: The Mountain Spirit P.O. Box 459 Hagerhill, KY 41222 or email: capinfo@chrisapp.org
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