The Mountain Spirit - Fall 2006

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Christian Appalachian Project V o lu m e X X V

True stories of courage, devotion, and hope.

No. 3

F a ll 2 0 0 6 Is s u e

0.4CAP w enty Years •f Sharing

-waiachian p nm ww.chrisapp.org

peration Sharing ntinues to grow

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this issue Outreach’s Annual School Readiness S.RA.R.K enters its second year Short Term, Lasting Impact

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Contents

Reader Services TO CONTACT US by phone: (859) 792-3051 toll-free: (866) 270-4227

Features

Mountain Spirit Staff

Editor/Design Linda G. East

Graphic Design Lorie A. Baugh

by email: capinfo@chrisapp.org

Staff Writer/Circulation Shawnna K. Carney

Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511

Contributing Writers Margaret Gabriel Kim Otto Photos

SUBSCRIPTIONS The Mountain Spirit is published four times a year. The annual subscription price is $20.00. Subscriptions and other correspondence should be sent to:

The Mountain Spirit Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 Copyright, 2006, the Christian Appalachian Project, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Christian Appalachian Project is a non-profit Christian service organization operating throughout Appalachia.

The Christian Appalachian Project is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and is qualified to receive tax deductible contributions.

Linda East Shawnna Carney

Twenty Years of Sharing...

Operation Sharing Celebrates 20 Years

CAP’S Annual School Readiness

Back to School

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The Christian Appalachian Project is an interdenominational, non-profit Christian organization committed to serving people in need in Appalachia by providing physical, spiritual and emotional support through a wide variety o f programs and services.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES To promote the dignity and self-worth o f individuals by promoting self-help.

II. To practice and encourage good stewardship o f and accountability fo r all o f the resources entrusted to us.

III. Tofoster individual growth among staff, volunteers, donors and program participants.

IV . To live out and promote the Gospel o f Jesus Christ through all o f our actions.

V . To foster open, honest and effective communication both inside and outside the organization.

V I . To involve the Appalachian people at all social and economic levels in developing solutions to poverty.

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Short-Term Volunteers Leave Long-Term Impressions

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A summary of the registration and financial documents filed by this organization can be obtained by contact­ ing: in Maryland, for the cost of copies and postage, the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401; in Virginia, Sate Division of Consumer Affairs, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23209; in Washington, residents can call the Secretary of State toll-free within the state at 800-332-4483; in Mississippi, by calling the Secretary of State’s office at 888-236-6167; IN NEW YORK, OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, CHARITIES BUREAU, 120 BROADWAY NEW YORK, NY 10271; IN NEW JERSEY, THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BY CALLING 973-504-6215; IN PENNSYLVANIA, DEPARTMENT OF STATE BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE, 800-732-0999; IN WEST VIRGINIA, SECRETARY OF STATE, STATE CAPITOL, CHARLESTON, WV 25305; IN FLORIDA, THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALL TOLLFREE WITHIN THE STATE AT 800-435-7352; IN NORTH CAROLINA, FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND A COPY OF THE LICENSE ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE STATE SOLICITATION LICENSING BRANCH WITHIN THE STATE AT 1-888-830-4989 OR OUTSIDE THE STATE AT 919-807-2214; or by writing to Christian Appalachian Project, P.O Box 511, Lancaster, KY 40444-0511. Our license number in Michigan is MICS 9933. Registration with any of the above government agencies does not imply endorsement by the state.

On The Cover CAP’S Operation Sharing Corbin staff.

From the E d ito r .............................. 3 A round the P r o je c t...................... 13

Departments A p p a la ch ia n R e c ip e s .................26 B ack Porch P o e tr y ............ ..

28

A cro ss the M o u n ta in s ...............30

FROM THE EDITOR

A Time to Celebrate As you read this issue of The Mountain Spirit, I invite you to join us in celebrat­ ing the 20th anniversary of CAP’S Operation Sharing.

We would like to share with you how a donation of chil­ dren’s books several years ago opened the door for a gifts-in-kind program, which distributes in-kind donations to people in need through com­ munity agencies, schools and churches in thirteen states of the Appalachian region.

In 1986, twenty years of sharing began when CAP received its first in-kind dona­ tion which included children’s books, records and audio tapes. Throughout this time, 1986- 2 0 * CAP has received in-kind donations such as health and beauty products, educational materials, building supplies, cloth­ ing, food and water for distribution.

Operation Sharing has seen changes over the last twenty years; however, one thing that has remained the same is CAP’S mis­ sion of helping people in need. I ask that you keep Operation Sharing and CAP in your prayers as we continue to serve.

Ànniversary

-Linda East, Editor

j What’s Online At www.chrisapp.org CAP helps Pennsylvania flood recovery Become an Angel of Appalachia Operation Sharing’s Words of Hope Newsletter Shop CAP’S Online Auction at Ebay CAP commissions four new volunteers Request Volunteer

Information Give us your Prayer Request Online 3

Operation Sharing Celebrates its 20 Year Anniversary I l f i B r a inr* i » —

"Operation Sharing isn't really about things or dollars or numbers, but about relationships.

Corbin Operation Sharing staff left to right: Ray Storm, Jeff Burchett, Johnny Thompson, Brian Johnson, Carol Parrett, Linda Adams, Bobby Bailey, and Johnny Asher.

An “Around the Project” item in the May-June 1986 issue of The Mountain Spirit includes a brief description o f a hunt for a ware­ house that was both affordable and large enough to store a donation of children’s books, records and audio tapes valued at nearly $2 million.

The item mentions the efforts o f friends of the Christian Appalachian Project and the influ­ ence o f Congressman Hal Rogers (R-KY) in securing a donation of “the necessary space for storing the books, records, tapes and a limited amount o f foodstuffs . . . then w e’ll devise a plan for distribution for those in need.”

CAP estimates that from that small beginning, in a borrowed tobacco warehouse, its in-kind donation distribution program has given hundreds of millions o f dollars worth of materials to people in the thirteen states of the Appalachian region and beyond.

In 2006, CAP marks Operation Sharing’s 20th anniversary by dis­

tributing a record breaking $85 to $90 million in gifts-in-kind, according to Sue Sword, CA P’s vice-president o f development.

But in exploring the progress o f Operation Sharing, one will note the steady growth o f the program, and the fact that it never wavered from its goal o f making materi­

that despite the logistical problem o f accepting the donation, there was great good that could be done not only for CAP, but for other ser­ vice groups in Kentucky. For that reason, the donation was accepted.

Shortly after the CAP board o f directors decided to accept the donation and expend $50,000 to

als available to such grassroots groups as schools, churches and community action agencies: groups that provide immediate assistance to people in need. Noted, too, is that Operation Sharing isn’t really about things or dollars or numbers, but about relationships.

. . . the good that could be done.

Bill Begley, the first to serve as CAP’s vice-president o f devel­ opment, received a call in 1986 from a colleague at the National Federation o f Non-profits, asking if CAP was interested in receiv­ ing a donation o f children’s books.

He traveled to Virginia to see the books, and remembers thinking

Bill Begley received a call in 1986 about a donation of children’s books which led to Operation Sharing

5

“At first, I thought gifts-

and throat to the sounds o f music

in-kind would represent a

that came from a voice-activated

couple o f million dollars a year (in income), but it mushroomed bigger and

crib mobile that she was able to provide for the family through

faster than I ever thought it

Operation Sharing.

• A donation o f rice made its

would.”

During his years as

way to a refugee family from Cambodia. The deacon who pre­

Operation Sharing’s direc­

sented the rice to the family

tor, Mike set a goal of receiving $50 million in

wrote, “I know o f no adequate words that can express the thanksgiving I have seen in the

donations by 2000 and far exceeded that goal.

eyes o f hungry people who have

From that first mention o f the search for a place to

been fed . . . “ • A prize-winning Charoláis bull

store in-kind donations, The Mountain Spirit chronicles

was given to the Daniel Boone

the efforts o f Operation Sharing, giving periodic descriptions o f ways in which donations were used: Materials are made available to several grassroot groups • A teacher in CAP’s pro­ such as schools, churches and community action agencies. gram for pre-schoolers with disabilties described rent the space and employ the peo­ the first response o f a 16ple needed to distribute the books, month-old baby who was the title “Operation Sharing” was learning to use his mouth coined. The name was based on a philosophy that donations would be shared and would promote CAP’s practice o f collaboration in the Appalachian region.

Mike McLaughlin was presi­ dent o f the Christian Appalachian

Development Council, mak­ ing breeding services available to farmers in Clay, Rockcastle, Owsley and Jackson counties.

The bull was named “Charlie” in honor o f Charlie Deaton, the first manager o f Operation Sharing.

Relationships are key Charlie was a long-time resident o f eastern Kentucky at the time

Project at that time and later served as the director of Operation Sharing for six years. During the earliest days of Operation Sharing, he recalls learning about a net­ work of groups that were involved in gifts-in-kind. “That opened up areas that we didn’t know were there,” Mike says.

Mike McLaughlin was president at the time “Operation Sharing” was created.

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he was hired to manage Operation Sharing, and Mike describes him

and Charlie, along with CAP’s founder, Father Ralph Beiting,

on the comer o f his desk. One might think he was talking to an

as a man who knew the importance o f relationships, and therefore a “perfect fit” for the program.

decided that since the method of distribution had been devised and the space would be available for

old buddy, but by the time Charlie got off the phone, one o f a couple o f things had happened. Either he

Beginning with relationships he had established as a teacher and coach in Pikeville, KY, Charlie made contact with over 500

some time in the future, Operation Sharing would continue.

had received a donation o f books or building supplies or something

Several people identify Charlie and the relationships he established as a key to the success o f Operation Sharing. Long-time CAP workers recall walking into Charlie’s office to find him leaning way back in his chair, with his feet perched

that could be used by thousands o f people in Kentucky and the

groups in Kentucky, West Virginia, Alabama, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and Tennessee. It took six months to empty the warehouse of that first donation, but Mike, Bill

adjoining states, or he had made contact with a group that could use such items.

“Charlie was the kind o f person who fit right in and was just who

Several people identify Charlie and the relationshiops he established as a key to the success of Operation Sharing.

Charlie Deaton was the first manager of Operation Sharing. He established contact with over 500 groups in Kentucky, West Virginia, Alabama, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and Tennessee.

7

"Charlie was the kind of person who fit right in and was ju st who we needed for Operation Sharing A crew of 120 people joined together on a warm day in the fall of 1996 and helped clean­ up the new Operation Sharing warehouse.

we needed for Operation Sharing,” Mike says.

After its time in the Somerset warehouse expired, the program operated out of Lancaster, then Tyner, and in 1996, just ten years after accepting its first large in-kind gift, CAP purchased a warehouse in Corbin, KY. On a warm day in the fall o f 1996, Operation Sharing

and volunteers to partner in a cleanup o f the warehouse. Despite the fact that most o f the workers were unaccustomed to working with hammers and crowbars, the crew o f 120 people accomplished in just two days what would have taken subcontractors three weeks.

There was more work to be done, but in short order, the warehouse

workers hosted CAP employees

was open and ready for business.

Program continues its growth Statistics on the back cover of the January-February 1997 issue o f The Mountain Spirit proudly proclaimed that in 1996, Operation Sharing had: • Distributed in-kind donations to 1,438 churches, schools and community agencies in all 13

g

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Mu i k .

Operation Sharing has tractors and trailers to pick-up gifts in kind.

Operation Sharing has two warehouse locations for distribué

"My favorite part is helping people who come in that are really sincere and are really in need."

Carol Parrett has worked in Operation Sharing since 1993 and she treasures the relationships with the people she meets on a daily basis.

Appalachian states;

value of donations to Operation Sharing growing to its current

warehouse is located about 125 miles northeast o f Corbin, and

level of nearly $90 million

is nestled in the foothills of

paper and computer software from 76 donors, which totaled $21.5 million;

and organizations outside the Appalachian region added to the

Appalachia. Operation Sharing employs a total o f 14 people to

list of recipients. In addition to its

solicit and distribute millions of

• Had moved to a warehouse with 69,000 square feet of space.

Growth in the next ten years continued at an even faster pace, with the monetary

Corbin warehouse, CAP also offers distributions from a warehouse in Hagerhill, KY, also the location o f CAP headquarters. Managed

by Ken Slone, the Hagerhill

dollars worth o f materials. “And you don’t do that sitting on your hind end!” says Carol Parrett, Operation Sharing’s assistant director for distribution. Carol has

• Served 884,208 people; • Received books, clothing,

ve is the Hagerhill location.

Operation Sharing receives a variety of goods such as: water, cleaning supplies, paper products, etc.

...people from 3 0 0 school districts in Kentucky and Tennessee received supplies that many students would be unable to supply for themselves.

People come daily in their pick-up trucks needing materials and supplies.

been with CAP for 23 years and with Operation Sharing since 1993.

Although Carol keeps track of a mind-boggling amount of inventory and the paperwork needed to keep it all straight, in true Operation Sharing fashion, she treasures the relationships with the people she meets in the course of each day.

“Everybody here loves what we do,” she says. “My favorite part is

with grant writing.

“Since all o f West Virginia is in the Appalachian region, this was really a no-brainer,” Johnny Thompson, director of Operation Sharing, says. “Mission West Virginia is honest and well thought of, and this should be a very good partnership for us.”

helping people who come in that are really sincere and are really in need.”

In 2006, CAP began a collaboration with Mission West Virginia, an outreach that was created by the executive branch of the state government and is based in Hurricane, WV. Mission West Virginia will provide warehouse space and will put Operation Sharing in contact with its large network of groups and will assist 10

Operation Sharing is a constant hub of activity.

“ . . . help people any way we can.”

The first donation to Operation Sharing was books, and books made up the bulk o f donations for many years, donations today are more likely to be health and beauty products, educational materials, building supplies, clothing, water

and cleaning supplies.

CAP uses as many materials as possible in its own education and assistance programs, but in 2006, materials were distributed to 1,708 schools, churches, family resource centers and community action agencies in all 13 Appalachian states, plus Indiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

For two weeks in mid-summer, Operation Sharing staff devotes itself to distribution o f school sup­ plies for the coming school year.

During July 2006, people from 300 school districts in Kentucky and Tennessee received supplies that many students would be unable to supply for themselves.

Because CAP is able to move quickly to both pick up surplus materials and distribute them to organizations that can use them, Johnny receives frequent calls from donors in many areas in the south-

Father Ralph Beiting (CAP Founder) and Mike McLaughlin, along with Charlie Deaton, decided that Operation Sharing would continue in beginning.

eastem parts o f the United States.

“If someone calls me on Tuesday, I can usually have something moved

by Thursday, and that’s valuable to people,” says Johnny, who often hires commercial truckers to bring goods to Corbin. Deliveries are made

by Operation Sharing’s fleet o f trucks: three tractors, eight to ten trailers and a box truck.

All are printed with Operation Sharing’s name and contact information; donors often call in response to the numbers they’ve seen on the side o f a truck.

Johnny Thompson, Operation Sharing Director, receives calls from donors all over the United States.

Although donors call Johnny with donations, he still spends a considerable amount o f time on the phone and e-mail, soliciting dona­ tions to Operation Sharing, or

just staying in touch with the con­ tacts he’s made through the years, fostering those relationships. The relationships formed by Johnny, Ken and Carol— as they were by Charlie in Operation Sharing’s early days— are key to the service that Operation Sharing provides throughout the Appalachian region.

Those relationships extend beyond the organizations and busi­ nesses that make donations to CAP and to Operations Sharing, and reach out to the over 1,700 groups that receive materials and in turn, in ways that will most benefit the people o f the region.

“When I come at eight in the morning, I never know what w e’re going to get,” Johnny says. “I just try to take it and help people any way we can.”

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Corporate Donations Needed How can you help?

Operation Sharing receives tractor trailer loads of various goods and materi­ als from corporations across America.

We then distribute these much need­ ed products to over 1,300 non-profit agencies in 13 Appalachian states.

However, with the growing number of recipent agencies we serve, these donations are spread quite thin.

Operation Sharing is continually looking for corporate donors to help in its ministry of “Delivering Hope” to those in need throughtout the Appalachian region.

As we continue to grow, our need for more corporate donors grows as well.

A few examples of goods and materials received

by Operation Sharing are building materials, books, paper goods, office supplies, cleaning supplies, furni­ ture, food, household items, etc.

Corporate donors can be manufacturers, retailers, clearing houses and distribution centers. If you know of or have contact with a potential donor that would be willing to help us in our ministry, please contact us at: Operation Sharing Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 1390 Corbin, KY 40701

You may also contact us by phone: (606) 523-5799 www.chrisapp.org

Help minister to those throughout Appalachia in n e e d ...

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S.P.A.R.K. P rep ares to E n te r Second Y e a r The scarcity of good jobs in Appalachia is such that

children are able to engage in a number of

parents must often work long hours in more than one

fun activities, such as studying different

job just to make ends meet. At the end of a school day,

countries, playing in the gym or on a

children must either go to daycare facilities or return

computer, playing games, and visiting a

to an empty home. Neither is ideal, since there are

local nursing home. Occasionally the group

little to no learning opportunities in either situation.

is treated to a movie as well, and snacks are

To provide a positive, structured learning environment to children in this situation, CAP’s

provided on a daily basis.

While the kids who participate enjoy the fun activities that are offered, they are also thankful for receiving help with their

P i-S o

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...th e p ro g ra m h o s ts an a v e ra g e o f 10 k id s p e r s essio n . homework, Brenda notes. She says they are realizing that they can learn while still having fun.

While the program itself is held in relation to the school calendar, summer activities keep staff busy as well, Brenda Martin County Child and Family Development Center

says. “This summer, the staff has gone into

holds after-school sessions for kids whose ages

the schools to do summer camps,” she says,

range from 5 to 12. Called S.P.A.R.K. (Scholastic

“which involves tutoring in math, English,

Preparation, Arts and Recreation for Kids), the

reading and also fun activities.”

program offers a unique combination of learning and fun.

6:30 pm, giving parents time to pick kids

Brenda Wireman, manager of the center, is both

up after work or night classes. Parents

excited and proud when speaking of the new venture:

appreciate the safe and educational

“We are touching children at an early age.. .providing

environment provided for their children;

them with structured activities, social involvement and

they also appreciate that there is no cost for

community service. Parents in the area struggle with

the program, since it is completely funded

by CAP.

providing good care for their children as they work or go to school.”

Brenda says the program hosts an average of 10

The center is open after school until

Brenda says the first year was such a success that a second location is being

kids per session. She says that many parents request

planned at a housing complex elsewhere in

that homework be a priority, so the staff stresses that

Martin County. “We are truly excited about

activity above others. Once homework is behind them,

this.”

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around the project

CAP Holds Annual Sum m er Camps for Appalachian Youth

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The end of each school year is met with much excitement for countless children each year. Thoughts of studying for tests, remembering lunch money and completing science projects are quickly replaced by thoughts of sleeping in, going on vacations and swimming in the pool For many Appalachian children, the opportunities for safe summer fun simply don’t exist or are out of their parents’ price range. In order to give these kids a fun and memorable summer experience, CAP recently held its annual summer camps in two locations for a range of

stay provides the kids with a wide array of activities designed to develop them spiritually, mentally, physically and creatively. Whether it’s learning invaluable leadership skills, learning to swim in the lake and pool, or tie-dying a t-shirt to take home as a lasting memento, each experience at camp provides kids with lasting memories and abilities that will be carried on well into the future.

Each week-long stay provides the kids with a wide array of activities designed to develop them mentally, physically and creatively,

ages. Camp Shawnee ¡s located in Floyd County, and Camp Andrew Jackson is located in Jackson County.

Each location hosts overnight camps during June and July, and each week is devoted to a specific age group (ages 8-12 and 13-17). By sorting according to age group, camp counselors are better able to provide children with the most rewarding experience possible.

Each week-long

While the activities at camp are structured and have a general purpose, the overall goal is that each child has fun. Children who love water have the opportunity to spend lots of time in the lake; canoes and paddleboats are always available and are quite popular. Nature lovers have a variety of hiking trails to choose from, and fishing poles are at the ready as well. A playground, basketball court and climbing wall are also available, providing kids with a constant supply of fun activities from which to choose.

This year’s campers, like those in years past, left for home each Friday with much more than they had brought with them. Packed away in their minds were new friendships, new skills, and a week’s worth of memories that will last a lifetime.

CAP Begins Wellness Program In late May, CAP announced the beginning of an exciting new activity for all employees and vol­ unteers: a wellness program designed to encourage everyone to become more active, with becoming healthier and fitter being the ultimate goal.

On June 5, a corporate challenge began. The chal­ lenge involved all employees and volunteers working together to achieve a total of 25,200,000 steps, or 12,500 miles, by August 26. To assist everyone with

CAP employees and volunteers are working together to reach their goal of 25,200,000 steps.

keeping track o f their walking activity, both at work

at CAP’s summer picnic, during which prizes will

and at home, pedometers were distributed.

be awarded to those who logged the most steps.

Many employees and volunteers have been meet­

Everyone who has participated so far is already feel­

ing daily to participate in short walks to keep each

ing rewards, however, in the form o f greater health

other motivated. Some have reported increasing their

and increased appreciation for the importance of

amount of daily exercise in an effort to help reach the

keeping active.

corporate goal of 25,200,000 steps. Others are finding that daily life is supplying them with enough opportu­ nities.

Mike Loiacono, manager of CAP’s Eagle Child and Family Development Center, says he and the employ­ ees at the center are having no trouble meeting their step goals. “Funny thing about the wellness program is that w e’re not actually trying to walk any more than usual,” he says. “None of us goes out and walks just to walk. We’ve been back and forth between the pre­ school and community center, (and) most of us have gardens we work in.” He adds that the staff recently participated in a home building event in the commu­ nity, which provided lots of walking opportunities, and also says that one staff member says she gets the most steps on days that she spends with her young grandson.

W ellness Program Mission Statem ent: CAP is com m itted to the well­ being o f its em ployees and seeks to increase the awareness o f m ak­ ing healthier choices. CAP will pro­ vide support and encouragem ent to assist all employees teers to becom e healthier and will do this through health new sletters, health fairs, walking programs, nutritional inform ation and other activities that prom ote health.

By the last week in July, the effort was right on track, with over 20 million steps already logged.

Plans to celebrate the certain success of the pro­ gram are already in place: a celebration will be held 15

Four CAP Employees Receive Their CDA Credentials Employees of CAP’S child and family development centers always strive to give children the most positive experi­ ence possible. This desire to excel for kids’ sake has led four employ­ ees of the Annville Child and Family Development Center to further their pro­ fessional skills. Rhonda Brewer, Abbie Keyton, Carrie Tillery and MacKenzie Thomas recently received their Child Development Associate (CDA) creden­ Annville Child and Family Development Center employees (left to right): Rhonda Brewer, Abbie Keyton, Carrie Tillery and tial in recognition of their outstanding MacKenzie Thomas work with young children.

The credential was awarded by the Council For Professionals Recognition in Washington, D.C., which represents the early childhood profession. CDA is the only major national effort to improve childcare by evaluating and recognizing the skills of individuals providing care.

There were several requirements the four CAP employees had to meet in order to receive their CDA credentials. First, an early childhood professional observed them as they worked with young children and their families. Second, they each had to complete 120 hours of classroom instruction. In addition, they had to demonstrate the ability to work with families to develop children’s physical and intellectual capabilities in a safe and healthy environment.

Congratulations on your hard work and achievement, and most importantly, on your ded­ ication to the youth of Appalachia!

yVlcmorial & Uionor fjijts Are meaningful ways to support the Christian Appalachian Project and, at the same time, extend condolences, congratula­ tions, or other greetings to family and friends.

Upon receipt of your gift, we will send an acknowledgement to you and to your family/friends you designate. The amount will not be disclosed.

Your gift of $25.00 or more will be published in the High­ lights newsletter and on our web page. Honor and Memorial gifts can be made online, or you can send your gift with a note listing your wishes to: Christian Appalachian Project P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 16

Outreach Services Holds Annual School Readiness Distribution Each year in July, parents begin thinking of the upcoming school year and the expenses that always accompany that event. New clothes, new shoes, school supplies...it all adds up to an expense that some families in Appalachia simply cannot afford.

Younger children must wear their older siblings’ worn-out clothes. Shoes that were already showing their age must last another year. Important, neces­ sary items for success such as notebooks and pen­ cils are not always in a budget already stretched too thin. Each parent no doubt wishes they could provide their child with the best start possible to the school year, but when faced with utility bills, the need for food, and unexpected emergency expenses, they are left with no choice but to push school needs to the bottom of the list.

To help these parents provide their children with back-toschool necessities, CAP’s Outreach Services pro­ grams hold School Readiness distribu­ tions in counties throughout eastern Kentucky each sum­ mer. Designed to supply kids with a few outfits, shoes, and school supplies, School Readiness is an annual event that requires lots o f effort, and pays off divi­ dends for the entire school year.

CAP has Outreach Services offices in two regions o f eastern Kentucky, based in Johnson and Rockcastle counties. The program based in Johnson County pro­ vides its participants with school necessities by taking them to a local retailer and purchasing items on loca­ tion. Russ Taylor, manager of the program, says he and the Outreach Services caseworkers hope to serve approximately 400 children this year in their region

alone.

Robyn Renner, manager o f the Rockcastle-based program, says her program also serves hundreds of children during their distribution, which is operated a bit differently from the one in Johnson County. At her distributions, temporary' “stores” are set up in locations in each county in their service area, allowing participants to come and “shop” for their items.

Parents o f each child fill out paperwork in advance noting sizes needed, so that caseworkers are sure to have those sizes on hand.

Parents o f the kids benefiting from School Readiness distribu­ tions always appear eager to help their child shop for the new school year, and the smiles on their faces are evidence o f their appreciation,

New clothes, new shoes, school supplies...it all adds up to an expense that some families in Appalachia simply cannot afford. as well as the relief they feel as at least one financial burden is lifted. “It helps a lot o f people,” one mother noted as she helped her child pick out a new school outfit.

There are so many factors to ensuring a child’s suc­ cess in school. By helping to remove financial obsta­ cles, we hope to help a child start his or her school year on equal footing with other children, ready to learn, grow and succeed.

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Church Youth Contribute $5,000

around the proj ect

To School Readiness CAP recently received a donation of $5,000 from the children of the Parish of Saints Philip and James, located in St. James, New York. CAP’S School Readiness program, oper­ ated by our Outreach Services mission, was cho­ sen as a recipient of the children’s generous contri­ butions.

The parish actively encourages stewardship in its youngest members, and at mass the children are given the opportunity to contribute change they have collected over the week. The money is then donated, so that the chil­ dren learn compassion and caring for the wellbeing of others.

By encouraging donations of spare change, the parish has cultivated a spirit of altruism and love in its chil­ dren. Over time, the money gathered

has been donated to worthy causes, helping those in need, while also planting a seed of generosity in each child in the parish that is sure to flourish over their lifetimes.

In a letter accompanying the dona­ tion, Deacon Tony Chamberlain emphasized that the children gathered the change in the hope that the dona­ tion “will help in your mission, to fight poverty by fostering the education of children who might otherwise be deprived of the opportunity to learn.”

The pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters quickly added up to $5,000, which will help hundreds of Appalachian schoolchildren start their school year equipped with school supplies, new clothes, and most importantly, hope. On behalf of the children of Appalachia, our heartfelt thanks goes out to the children of the Parish of Saints Philip and James, for choosing School Readiness to be a recipient of their kindness, generosity and love.

¡J o in CAP as w e go U n to th e H ills, in o u r q u a rte rly m in is try new sletter. L earn a b o u t th e 1 w o rk y o u help su p p o rt in th e A p p alach ian region w hile read in g a b o u t p ro g ram u p d a te s a n d c u rre n t activities. R eq u est a free copy for y o u r ch u rch a n d share th e experience.

Q Yes, please send my church a copy of Unto the Hills today.

Name of Church : Address: Citv: Email:

State:

Zip: Phone:

M ail To: C h ristia n A p p a lac h ia n Project D e v elo p m en t Office P O Box 511 Lancaster, KY 4 0 4 4 4-0511 18

----------- 1/ m / 5«°ther jyEED/ /

fm i /

Your legacy...

A Personal G ift of Love...

o

Make it personal: it s YOU reaching out and helping another person in need, perhaps in a time of their life when it matters most. It’s compassion, caring, and kindness that changes lives forever. It’s a personal Gift of Love.

“Love never fails.” Corinthians 13:7 (NIV) B ecom ing a charter m em ber is m uch m ore than ju st nam ing CA P in yo u r w ill. I t’s m ore than ju s t a w ay o f supporting your favorite organization. I t’s even m ore than ju s t becom ing a charter m em ber o f an exclusive group o f C A P supporters. A ll com bined, it’s m ore than that.

Please take this invitation and becom e a C harter M em ­ ber o f C A P ’s L egacy o f Love today.

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

.

■

M

o lIU

Christian Appalachian Project Planned Giving Office P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 N am e______________________ Address _____________________ City ___________________ Phone/E-mail (optional)

As a m em b er you’ll receive: • A certificate th a t designates you as a C h arter M em ber • A folder to place this in (w ith y o u r o th er im p o rta n t papers) A unique, o n e -o f-a-k in d leather Bible m arker

( ÍL

□ Yes, I have included the Christian Appalachian Project in my will. □ I would consider becoming a Charter Member. □ Please send me more information on planning my estate. □ Please have a respresentative call me.

The best time to reach me is

State

Zip

(To retain confidentiality, please msert card in an envelope.)

,

“Hope sees the invisible feels the intangible and achieves the impossible.”Anonymous

Short-Term Volunteers Leave Long-Term Impressions... any people who come to CAP to volunteer commit to a year-long stay, during which they are able to touch the lives of countless Appalachians. When their service has ended, they leave CAP with rich experiences and memo­ ries that last a lifetime.

Not everyone is able to pledge an extended period of time, however, regardless of how sin­ cere their desire is to help those in need. To enable those people to serve, CAP provides many opportunities for them to become short­ term volunteers. Although their time spent in a CAP program may be short, the impact they have is often felt for years.

Ask any program manager at CAP about the value of short-term volunteers, and you’re likely to get a similar response from each one. Managers often talk about how invaluable each volunteer is, and about how much of a help they’ve been dur­ ing their time in a program.

Liz Phelps, manager of Camp Andrew Jackson, is one person who truly appreciates short-term volunteers. Each summer, the camp in rural Jackson County is inundated with hundreds of

M

Short-term volunteers (left to right) Barbara Faris, Jean Klutz, Marie Stutz and Laurie Stutz.

kids ready to have lots of fun, but also needing some guidance, attention and structured activity.

While the camp does have year-round staff and volunteers, short-term volunteers are vital to the success of the camp experience.

This summer, several people chose to spend time volunteering at camp. Marie Stutz came from Pennsylvania with her husband and daughter, to help out wherever there was a need. Her husband John spent his time in CAP’S Housing program,

Although their time spent in a CAP program may be short, the impact they have is often felt for years.

20

while Marie and their daughter Laurie felt called to work with the children attending sum­ mer camp. Their creative talents were put to work each day during the kids’ craft time. The crafts building was kept busy by Marie and Laurie, as they led the kids in activities such as tie-dying t-shirts, creating journals, and designing beaded bracelets.

Marie says her husband had already been a supporter of CAP as a donor. “He always had a heart for the people in Appalachia,” she says, which led to their decision to spend time in the area. They were pleas­ antly surprised to find that, while they were hoping to touch the lives of others, “we’re just as touched,” adding that they got just as much out of the experience as those they worked with.

Another pair of short-term volunteers who came to volunteer at camp for a short time is Barbara

tact us for more information. There are a host of different opportunities available for all ages, abili­ ties and interests. Please contact our Volunteer program at 1-800-755-5322, e-mail them at vol-

...while they were hoping to touch the lives of others, they got just as much out of the experience as those they worked with.

Faris and Jean Klutz, two friends from Indiana.

The two met while on a mission trip in Guatemala and, finding they had much in common, became fast friends. When they read about CAP’S pro­ grams and its opportunities for volunteering, they decided to serve together.

Despite being older than Marie and Laurie, they were just as full of enthusiasm and energy and are already planning future volunteer trips. They say they definitely plan to return to CAP as volunteers, noting they liked that CAP took the time to get to know them personally before they came to serve.

As the experiences of Marie, Laurie, Barbara and Jean show, one does not always need to make a long-term commitment to serve the people of Appalachia. All that is really needed is a sincere desire to help, even if it’s only for a few weeks.

If you feel called to sen/e as a volunteer, whether short-term or long-term, we encourage you to con-

unteer@chrisapp.org, or write them at Christian Appalachian Project, 4192 North Wilderness Road, Mt. Vernon, KY 40456. All interested individuals are subject to an application process.

21

G o d ’s C a l l in g CAP Volunteer Program N e v e r

D o u b t t h a t t h e

w o r k

o f

a

s m a l l

g r o u p

o f

t h o u g h t f u l ,

C O M M IT T E D C IT IZ E N S C A N C H A N G E T H E W O R L D .

I n d e e d , i t ’ s t h e o n l y t h i n g t h a t EV E R H A S .”

The above quotation is one of my favorites. It comes from Margaret Mead, a world-renowned anthropologist, who is often considered one of the most influen­ tial female thinkers in the social sciences. This quotation appears in a frame on the wall in my office, and I pass by it each time I walk through the door. It also appears at the end of our volunteer video, which we show to people who are considering volunteering with CAP. Those words have always struck me because they exemplify what we strive to do in the Volunteer Program each day. The Volunteer Program staff are thoughtful and committed people, striving to be the bridge between the people CAP serves and the people who want to be of service. CAP volunteers are also thoughtful, extremely committed people who want to make the world a better

by Kim Otto, Volunteer place, whether they are here in Appalachia serving for a week, a month, or a Recruitment Manager

year.

I always enjoy hearing prospective volunteers’ personal stories about how they learned of CAP. Some hear about CAP because a relative of theirs is a donor or they themselves have been financially supporting CAP for many years. Some meet a CAP representative at their college or church and are introduced to CAP for the first time by reading the literature or viewing a CAP video. Still others meet a former volunteer whose life has been changed by their service experience, and they too want to be inspired by the Appalachian people.

Hearing these stories keeps me excited about the job that I feel God has called me to do and reminds me that God continues to place a call in other volunteers’ hearts to serve in Appalachia. I first felt that call several years ago, which led me to volunteer with CAP for two amazing years. So, are you thoughtful? Committed to CAP’S mission? Perhaps God is calling you to help us change the world...

Housing and Home Repair * Child and Family Development Program * Spouse Abuse Shelters * Respite Services

Want to change the world?

Volunteer!

Contact us today to learn how you can make a difference in Appalachia and change lives... including your own.

CAP Volunteer Program 4192 North Wilderness Road Mt. Vernon, KY 40456 1-800-755-5322 volunteer@chrisapp.org Adult Education * Outreach Services * Summer Camps * Elderly Services * Disability Services * and many more!

Words of Wisdom True friendship isn convenient;

The trouble w ith being punctual is th at people think you have nothing m ore im portant to do.

there when it's there when it's not.

A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.

A father is a feihow who has rep faced the currency in his waffet with the snapshots o f his fids.

1

,

, r

%!ou m ust first be a believer, i f

No m atter how m uch it hurts, no matter what the pain js inside> WQrk

y o u wouldhe an achiever.

hard to m ake som ebody happy everyday, even if it is yourself.

Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get, it’s what you are expected to give--which is everything.

To change is difficult.

N ot to change is fatal.

23

Berea, Kentucky Known as the “Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky”, Berea offers visitors a wide array o f activities and natural beauty. Home of Berea College, the town is host to numerous festivals, crafts fairs and special events.

Activities/attr actions: •

October 14-15: Kentucky Guild o f Artists and Craftsmen Fall Fair, Memorial Park. Features works by over 100 local artists and craftsmen, plus live music and demonstrations, www.kyguild.org

•

November 11-12: Churchill Weavers Annual Sale.

A great opportunity to purchase fine quality handwoven throws, scarves and blankets at great prices, just in time for the holidays. (859-986-3127)

•

December 26-January 1: Christmas Country Dance School, Seabury Center. Register for classes cov­ ering a range o f styles, including clogging, contra, square dancing and Morris dance. Special classes

•

featured for callers and instructors. (859-985-3431) Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea: a perfect opportunity to purchase crafts and folk art made by artisans throughout Kentucky. Live craft and food demonstrations. Includes a restaurant perfect for those who enjoy southern cooking, www .kentuckvartisancenter.kv. gov

Lodging: Boone Tavern Hotel www.boonetavemhotel.com, (800-366-9358) The D octor’s Inn Bed and Breakfast www.berea.com/doc sinn/. (859) 986-3042 Comfort Inn & Suites (859-985-5500)

Dining: Main Street Café www.main-street-cafe-bereaxom, (859-986-0703) Papaleno’s (859-986-4497) Old Towne Restaurant (859-986-4974)

A PPALACHIAN

D E L IC IO U S R ECIPES YOU WILL ENJOY SH A R JN (

Slow Cooker Beef Ribs 4 lb. beef spare ribs 1 large onion, quartered 1 clove garlic, minced 3/4 cup ketchup 1/4 cup cider vinegar 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons instant coffee 1 teaspoon potato starch Place ribs, onion and garlic in slow cooker. Combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, coffee grounds and potato starch. Pour the mixture over the ribs. Cover with lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Once cooked remove the ribs and onions from cooker. Skim and discard any excess fat from sauce. Return ribs and onions to the sauce; stir to coat wtih sauce.

Pumpkin Pie Treats 11/3 cups flour 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar 3/4 cup sugar, divided 3/4 cup cold butter 1 cup old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats, uncooked 1/2 cup chopped pecans 1 package cream cheese (8 oz.)

3 eggs 1 can pumpkin (15 oz.)

1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice Preheat oven to 350. Line a 13x9 baking pan with foil and grease the foil lining. Mix flour, brown sugar and 1/4 cup of sugar in mixing bowl. Cut in butter with a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in oats and pecans. Reserve 1 cup of the oat mixture; press remaining mixture onto bottom of pan. Bake for 15 minutes.

Beat cream cheese, remaining 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, pumpkin and pumpkin spices in bowl with mixer on medium speed until blended. Pour mixture over crust and sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture. Bake for 25 minutes and let cool completely before cutting.

Biscuit Pockets 2 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 tablespoon salad dressing 1 teaspoon dijon mustard 4 slices shaved smoked turkey breast 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 can refrigerated biscuits (7.5 oz. or 10 biscuits) Preheat oven to 400. Mix cream cheese, dressing and mus­ tard until well blended. Add turkey and cheese; mix well.

Roll out each biscuit to 3 1/2 inch circle. Place a heaping teaspoon of cream cheese mixture onto each biscuit circle.

Fold the dough over the filling to make small turnovers.

Firmly pinch the edges of the dough together to seal. Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes.

Fall Caramel Apple Cake 1 package yellow cake mix 1 package vanilla instant pudding (4-serving size) 1 cup water 4 eggs 1/3 cup vegetable oil 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped 20 caramels, unwrapped 3 tablespoons milk Preheat oven to 350. Grease and flour a 10-inch tube pan.

Beat cake mix, dry pudding mix, water, eggs and oil in large bowl with a mixer on low speed until blended. Gently stir in apples and pour into prepared pan. Bake for 50

D O YOU HAVE A FAVORITE RECIPE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE 26

minutes to 1 hour. Let cool for 20 minutes and remove from pan. Microwave the caramels and milk in a microwaveable bowl on high for 1 1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds.

Cool for 10 minutes then drizzle over cake.

Harvest Bake 2 lbs. mixed fall vegetables 3 cups milk 1 package cream cheese, cubed 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 8 butter crackers, crushed Preheat oven to 350. Peel vegetables and cut into 1-inch pieces. Place vegetables in saucepan and add milk. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat. After it boils reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasion­ ally. Add cream cheese cubes and cook until completely melted and well blended. Stir frequently. Stir in the parme­ san cheese and nutmeg. Pour into greased 2 quart casserole dish and sprinkle with cracker crumbs. Bake for 30 min­ utes.

Yummy Apple Crisp 4 large Granny Smith apples, thinly sliced 25 caramels 2 tablespoons milk 25 vanilla wafers, crushed 1/3 cup quick-cooking oats 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/2 stick butter, cut up Preheat oven to 350. Place half of the apple slices in a 1 1/2 quart baking dish and top with half of the caramels. Repeat layer. Pour milk over the last caramel layer and set aside.

Mix wafer crumbs, oats and sugar. Cut in the butter with a

pastry blender. Sprinkle over the caramel layer. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Serve hot.

Chicken Bistro 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 3 cups sliced mushrooms 1 medium onion, chopped 1 can stewed tomatoes, undrained (15 oz.)

1/4 cup Italian dressing 3 tablespoons tomato paste 4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves 1 cup mozzarella cheese 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled Heat oil in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and onions and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in to­ matoes, dressing and paste. Add chicken and cover. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 12 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese and bacon. Let simmer uncovered for 5 minutes.

Serve hot over rice.

If so, send us a recipe card in the envelope provided or write to us at: Christian Appalachian Project, Publications Department, PO. Box 511, Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 27

pviches |n ( j ! o r u S e a r c h in g Some know what and some know why And some know where they be But I know neither, what, where, nor why I don’t even know who is me.

Tonight I ’m divided in sections of three Searching m yself to find My body is off in search of my soul My soul in search of my mind.

Together we stand beside the stream Together, yet w e’re far apart Hoping and dreaming the impossible dream That some day I’ll win your heart But who knows how and who know where And who knows when that will be?

I can’t expect to find happiness here When I don’t even know who is me.

I’ll just go on drifting like as before Drifting and searching, you see?

I ’m not like the bird that knows his sky Nor like the fish that knows his sea.

Success is not my destination in life It’s just a part of my journey So I ’ll stumble around and search some more Until I find who is me.

Dora D uff Sizemore Kentucky

w

According to His riches, Jesus provides all we need.

All His riches in glory, that the would we can feed.

And with our heart of love that His spirit provides; Jesus living in us; His love in us resides.

The love that reaches out to fill the need so great, so many people hurting In this world filled with hate.

But the family o f God can provide enough love; the substance to sustain and comfort from above.

We can lift the needy out and set them on a straight course.

Help them live in dignity; the effects o f God’s love force; when we let Jesus shine Letting His love in us show, with His riches in glory, that God’s love all can know.

Richard Roeder Wichita, KS

e w o u ld io v e to h e a r fro m u o u !

P le a s e se n d us y o u r p o e try , with p e rm issio n to p rin t in an u p co m in g is s u e o f T ~h e M o u n ta in j p l r i t .

28

*7” he Y o w e r o

er

Never compare the power of prayer with anything -

/~\s> | f~ace a [\|ew l A a y

this is an impossibility.

Prayers can move mountains and fill many voids.

Father as I start to pray

They will also remove what we would like to avoid.

I thank you for another day

I ’m sure there was a time you can recall,

The sun, the grass, the glittering trees.

when praying made you feel like you were walking tall.

Even the sting o f bumble bees.

The water flowing down the brook

You can ask for something and you might get it.

The sweet aroma o f someone

If you don’t, you w on’t regret it, for

starting to cook

praying take away the stress of anything you can address.

As the ducks take their morning dive Be positive, be faithful, be trusting,

I know it’s great to be alive

leave it to God to do the adjusting.

and even if today were my last look at the sky there is no fear o f having to die

He knows what is best, never second-guess, for this is His way to put us to the test.

You see I walk a peaceful pace Since I received your amazing gracing.

If we pass, we have won and someday, will join Him and His Son.

Ed Staub Harrisburg, PA

Grace Ann Hast Rochester, NY

H y e s 5 mo k y B ! ue There’s never a moment

Cause the fire in my heart

That I don’t think of you

Is from your eyes smoky blue.

I think about and remember Your eyes smoky blue.

My hands shake and tremble

They’re like a lake of pure water

If I gaze for a while

1 could sink in and drown

They long to reach up and touch

They make me forget

That ghost o f a smile

Those eyes velvet brown.

Home is where the heart is And my heart is with you

Somehow they hold a promise

I’ve built me a castle

O f a love we can share

In your eyes smoky blue.

I’m like a fish out of water I drown in the air

Dora Duff Sizemore

There’s no cure for this feeling

Kentucky

That Em holding for you 29

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anniversary

books

bracelets

comfort

computer

corporate

credential

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enthusiasm

environment

expense

government

harvest

health

intellectual

leadership

literature

merchandise

movie

number

pedometer

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pledge

prospective

punctual

states

stewardship

success

vegetable

warehouse

Fr om O u r

..

E x ce rp ts from the S e p te m b e r - O cto b er 1990 M o u n ta in S p ir it

The September - October Theme Workers often hear “I had no idea how big CAP is,” from family, friends, and CAP supporters.

Despite its many programs and workers, CAP still believes in the one-to-one approach when it comes to dealing with problem s in the A ppala­ chian area, sometimes making the organization seem much smaller. C A P’s in-kind donation distribution program allows the project to reach far beyond the limits o f its twelve county ser­ vice area, and gives companies the opportunity to touch thousands o f A ppalachian residents.

Original photo by Hal Hill

Operation: Sharing

by Keith Gilbertson

The roads to Lancaster, Kentucky, are well trav­ elled these days by people from organizations that serve families in Eastern Kentucky and surrounding Appalachian states. D estination is the warehouse headquarters o f Operation Sharing, a Christian A ppalachian Project program that receives in-kind donations, then distributes them to people and orga­ nizations who need the materials.

People come with empty pickup trucks, church vans, station wagons, even big 18-wheelers. By the time they leave, CAP workers have filled them with a variety o f new, quality materials free o f charge.

One time it is books for children. The next time, vegetable seeds, furniture, medical supplies or new

Original photo by Keith Gilbertson

clothing. W hatever is available comes through the generosity o f various companies who donate quality items to CAP and Operation Sharing.

Since Operation Sharing began in 1986, over $29 million dollars worth o f m erchandise has been donated and distributed.

31

PH^