The Mountain Spirit - Spring 2007

mountain Christian Appalachian Project V o lu m e X X V I

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S p rin g 2 0 0 7 Is s u e

Tim e Well Spent Breaking the Cycle of Poverty in Appalachia

In this issue ■ CAP’S Wellness Program ■ eBay Venture Celebrates Two Years ■ A World Away Suzann Fenton Story

True stories of courage, devotion and hope

Contents

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

Features

by email: capinfo@chrisapp.org

Mountain Spirit Staff Editor/Design Linda G. East Graphic Design Lorie A. Baugh Staff Writer/Circulation Shawnna K. Carney

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

Contributing Writers Margaret Gabriel Amy Schill Bobbie Playforth

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Photos

The Mountain Spirit is published four times a year. The annual subscription price is $20.00.

Subscriptions and other correspondence should be sent to:

Shawnna Carney Amy Schill

The Mountain Spirit Christian Appalachian Project

Time Well Spent Breaking the Cycle of Poverty in Appalachia

P.O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 Copyright, 2007, 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.

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. To foster 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.

A World Away: Suzann Fenton Works at Home and Abroad

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, State 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

Different Gifts, Same Spirit A Volunteer Profile

CAP Manager helps child navigate a computer.

On The Back Suzann Fenton, a Teacher/Development Interventionist with PAT, works with a child in China.

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Random T h o u g h ts ....................... 3 Around the P ro je c t.....................12 Departments Words of W isd o m ...................... 25 Appalachian R e c ip e s ................26 Backporch P o e try...................... 28

RANDOM THOUGHTS

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Visit our NEW website www.christianapp.org

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Prcj:cj Spring is a great time of year! There is something magical about the beginning of spring; a time of knowing that the cold and darkness of winter has passed and a new season is beginning.

As I think of a new season beginning, I am reminded of new beginnings for many of the people that CAP serves on a daily basis.

I hope that this issue of the Mountain Spirit will bless you as you read how a GED obtained through CAP’s Adult Education program has inspired people in Appalachia and offered them a new beginning.

We relate a GED and a new beginning to a somewhat younger generation. However, through CAP’s Adult Education program you will learn that a GED may be a new beginning for a father who wants to set an example for his children, showing them that if their dad can do it, anyone can.

Robert, a sixty four year old GED student spoke at CAP’s GED graduation and shared this: “If I had taken time out of my life to do this when I was twenty five or thirty years old, instead of sixty four years old, I feel like my life would have been a lot easier.”

You will also read about GED student Marshall, a nineteen year old who at the age of eighteen faced a spinal cord aneurism, which put his education plans to the side as he faced eleven operations. Marshall qualified for disability benefits; he knew, however, that his monthly benefit would not provide the kind of life that he wanted. At age nineteen, Marshall walked the stage to receive his GED. CAP’s Adult Education staff works closely with their students, striving to improve their daily lives by empowering them to improve themselves and find a new beginning. Please join me in congratulating both the staff and the students for their achievements. Their hard work and dedication are bringing about new life and new hope now and for years to come.

Shop CAP’s Online Auction at Ebay Learn how you can re­ ceive life income with a charitable gift annuity Read about Operation Relief Response Learn about Corporate Donations Request Volunteer Information Support CAP through Honors and Memorials Leave a Prayer Request for Someone Special

-Linda Last, Editor 3

CAP’S Adult Education Program

by Margaret Gabriel L /W

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The announcement stunned the workers, but for some it spelled a turning point in their ...

I was working at Rockcastle Manufacturing and had been back from vacation for only a few weeks. During these few weeks, my own life, as well as my coworkers, had been turned upside down. The day after returning from vacation, our management staff called us all in a meeting and announced that our factory would soon be shut down. I remember sitting in that break room looking at all those faces and thinking what would they all do? I was thinking about the single moms, and the older workers who would have a hard time finding a job and those that would be left without any insur­ ance. When you see these people more than you see your own family, your natural response is to worry about them first. It really didn’t sink in that I was in the exact same situation . . .

Dianna C. July 21, 2006

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty in Appalachia: The Pieces of the Puzzle A few weeks before beginning classes at Somerset Community College in September of 2006, Dianna wrote a reflection on how her life had changed from the previous year. On July 21,

2005, she and her fellow fac­ tory workers had been called together, told their sewing fac­ tory would be closed and that they would lose their jobs.

The announcement stunned the workers, but for some it spelled a turning point in their lives and the opportunity to pursue a dream they thought

Somerset Community College.

She knew that with a college degree she could choose from a greater number of higher paying jobs, ultimately providing a bet­ ter life for her children.

The year of study was life­ changing for Dianna and not just because of the opportunities that opened to her. She wrote fur-

Adult Education students use the computer lab for several of their studies.

was unattainable. That dream was the chance to attend college and begin a career rather than another job.

Of the 143 Rockcastle Manufacturing employees who lost their jobs, Dianna and 45 others took the initiative to begin adult education classes with the Christian Appalachian Project. Dianna’s goal was to prepare to take classes at

ther, “I am not the same person that would stand in that factory and settle for whatever the day brought. I am not that scared person, nor am I that subdued person any more. I am now a person who has gone through the first phase of something very difficult and truly believes that she can make it through the rest.”

Later that summer, Dianna not 5

only started college but had a baby, so she completed her first semester working at home via the Internet. Ironically, one of her classes was “Introduction to Computers.” Her at-home work earned her a place on the dean’s list and she is now in her second semester of school. For Dianna and her former co-workers who are attending college, that factory closing turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Others who lost their only means of livelihood say they do not feel so fortunate.

Help Needed: Seeking an Educated Workforce A lack of education and edu­ cational opportunities have traditionally been pieces of the dilemma that has kept eastern Kentucky ranking far behind the 6

Although adult education students enter the program for a variety of reasons and with a variety of goals, most have a common desire - to retrace their steps and undo decisions made in their youth that changed their lives. During last year’s GED graduation ceremony, three grad­ uates spoke about their decision to complete what they started years earlier. “It was thrilling to be able to tell a recent job interviewer that I DO have a GED,” Larry G. said. Frank C. said he completed his education for himself and for his children.

“I wanted to show them that if Daddy could do it, anyone could do it.” Each speaker encouraged others in the audience who did not have a high school diploma to get a GED. “If I had taken time out of my life to do this when I was 25 or 30 years old, instead of 64 years old, I feel like my life would have been a lot easier,” said Robert G.

rest of the nation in job oppor­ tunities and per capita income.

Lack of education and underem­ ployment go hand-in-hand, and for many adults the obstacles to both are overwhelming.

The closing of the Rockcastle Manufacturing plant represented the loss of the largest employer in Rockcastle County. For those individuals determined to stand CAP Collaboration on their own and not live on Another piece of the puzzle government assistance, CAP col­ has been the lack of accessibility laborates with other programs and agencies to make accessible to services. While residents of Rockcastle County are entitled both education and employ­ ment training. Enabling students to the same opportunities as individuals living in other coun­ to enhance their employment potential can result in economic ties, they have had to drive 35-40 miles to attain them. improvement for them, their “Rockcastle is this forgotten family and for the entire region little county sitting in the middle in the long run, says Bobbie of a hub of larger counties,” Play forth, the program’s man­ Bobbie says. “The opportunities ager.

“My students are people who would otherwise fall through the cracks.!’ are there, but just out of reach.

If you don’t have a job, and you don’t have gas money, or a car, how can you drive 40 miles to talk to an employment agency?

It just becomes one more obsta­ cle that keeps you bound to a hopeless situation.”

At its offices on U.S. 25, not

programs available to people here in Rockcastle County is a matter of justice and respect,” Bobbie says.

Asked how these agencies happened to come together to work in partnership with CAP, Bobbie smiles broadly, and says, “We invited them! We told them

Some students simply want to learn to read, while others are working toward a GED.

far from the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in Renfro Valley, CAP is making the best use of its space by sharing it with other agencies and organiza­ tions that fit together to provide full-service job readiness skills and job placement to people in Rockcastle County. Workers from a variety of state agencies come once a week to offer ser­ vices that previously were only available by driving to a neigh­ boring county. “Making these

we could give them office space to work in if they could come, even if it was just once a week.

And we kept asking until they said yes!”

CAP School on W heels As an instructor in the School on Wheels program, Vivian Abner teaches in twenty-seven different classrooms weekly - the homes of her students in Lee, Owsley and Jackson coun­ ties. Students range in age from

16 to 77; some are working on a GED, others are learning to read. Vivian has learned that the key to successfully teach­ ing from a rolling classroom is flexibility. But she believes she teaches a population that truly needs both her instruction and encouragement. “My students are people who would otherwise fall through the cracks,” Vivian says. State or federally funded programs do not serve homebound students and her students struggle with issues beyond a lack of transportation, she says.

“Some of my students have mental health problems that pre­ vented them from succeeding in a classroom.” Low self-esteem is common for those students, and they would not leave the house for a classroom. “They’re embarrassed that they can’t read and they would do without an education rather than leave the house. They’ve told me that,” Vivian says.

Although some of Vivian’s students simply want to learn to read, others are working toward a GED and beyond. “After they get a GED, we help them get scholarships for college and technical school and connect them with programs that will help them with financial assistance.”

Gladys Perry is CAP’S adult 7

education teacher in McCreary County. Like Vivian, she grew up in the area she now serves and relates well to the students in her program who are continu­ ing their education as adults.

She was completing a practicum in McCreary County for Lindsey Wilson College when a teaching position with CAP came open and she gratefully took the job.

“Her students respect her,” Bobbie said. “They know that she’s from McCreary County and they know what she’s been through in her life.”

Gladys grew up in pov­ erty and is the only member of her family to graduate from high school or attend college.

Pursuing an education, she says, is a way to improve one’s everyday life and she enjoys empowering people to improve.

“I love helping people,” Gladys says. “When my students get

Bobbie Playforth, Adult Education program manager.

good grades on their test scores, I think I get more excited than they do. It is a wonderful feeling knowing that you are making a difference in someone else’s life. As instructors, we are called to be agents of change in our community and I believe I’m answering that calling everyday.”

The program has assisted adults to further their educations in a variety of ways for over 20 years. Each year approximately 100 people enroll in GED class­ es, and at any given time a large number will be high school stu­ dents who have recently dropped out. As the agency in Rockcastle County that helps people attain high school equivalency, this has made for an uneasy alliance with the Rockcastle County school system. “Kids mistakenly perceive getting a GED as an easy way out,” Bobbie says. “By

the time they come to us, it’s too late for the ‘stay in school’ lecture, because they’ve already withdrawn. We were always being reactive, and we knew that needed to change.”

By Serving Families, Fresh Start Serves the County In 2003, the Adult Education program collaborated with the school system and the Rockcastle family court to create a 12-week program called Fresh Start, specifically tailored to the needs of troubled teens and their families. The program combines parenting, education and parent/ teen activities, all with the goal of keeping the teen in school, furthering the parents’ education and keeping the family together.

In the past four years, approxi­ mately 120 families have gone through the program.

“When people get a good grade on their test scores, I think I get more excited than they do” and workforce development In 2005 the program expand­ and says, “When I retire and ed to include parents of young look back, I want to be able to children in response to a need say that I helped CAP create identified in CAP’S child devel­ change. And there couldn’t opment center. For these young be a better way to do that parents, the goal is family res­ than through education that toration, as most of the time it leads to employment. When is the parents who have been I reflect on my years with CAP, ordered by the court to attend, I’ll know they were well spent.” and the children have been removed from the home. Staff from CAP’s Family Life Child Development Center and Family Life Counseling programs con­ duct different parts of the pro­ gram, providing families access to a broad range of CAP services.

The staff of the adult education program considers education— from pre-school educa­ tion to post-secondary education—the most important piece of the puzzle in alleviating poverty in Appalachia.

When Bobbie started with CAP 20 years ago, she worked with people with disabilities and then in workforce training. She has a pas­ Family Life Child and Family Development Center sion for adult education manager Becky Kana helps a child navigate a

Students like Marshall T. often have to overcome multiple obstacles in order to pursue their education.

For Marshall, a spinal cord aneurism at age 18 quickly derailed his educational plans. While undergoing 11 operations on his back and fingers, Marshall became eligible for disability benefits, and for many that could have been the end o f the story. But Marshall told his instructor at the adult education program that he knew a $500 a month disability check would not provide him the kind of life he wanted. A t age 19, with several more surgeries yet to go, Marshall walked across a stage and received his GED to the applause o f many fami­ lies, friends and staff he had inspired.

computer.

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Letters to the ‘Editor Dear Friend of The Mountain Spirit, As you read The Mountain Spirit, we hope that you will be blessed by the heartwarming stories of the people of Appalachia.

As a supporter of the Christian Appalachian Project, you are a part of the CAP family, and without you, our mission in Appalachia would not be possible. We value your input, and would love to hear from you!

As we continually work to improve the magazine, we would like for you to share your comments with us to be published in an upcoming issue of the The Mountain Spirit. Please feel free to share your thoughts, poetry, recipes and prayer requests below. r

— — — — — — — — — — — — —i — — — — — — — n Name:________________________________________________________ ___________________ Address:_____________________ _ _ _____________________________________ ___________ ■ City:_________________________ State:_____________________ Zip:_____________________ | Dear Editor,

1 O p e 5 , ^ease share m y com m ents in an upcom ing issue o f The M ountain Spirit.

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*1Hankjybu for your support!

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C f ia r ita h f e Q i f t A n n u i t y " P ro g ra m

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OULD YOU CONSIDER

MAKING A GIFT TO THE

Uniform Gift Annuity Rates Single Life Age Rate

55 56 Pr o je c t a n d r e c e iv in g 57 LIFE INCOME? 58 59 60 This is possible when you fund a CAP charitable gift annuity. A chari­ 61 table gift annuity is an agreement between you and CAP. In exchange fo r cash or other assets (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc.) o f $2,500 or more, 62 CAP guarantees to make fixed payments fo r the rest ofyour life. Follow­ 63 ing your life, the assets remaining are used to fund the work o f CAP. 64 65 66 DVANTAGES OF A 67 CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY W ITH CAP 68 Fixed payments for life.

69 A charitable income tax deduction the year the charitable gift annuity is funded.

70 A portion of each lifetime payment considered a tax-free return of principal.

71 An opportunity to make a significant commitment to the Christian Appala­ chian Project and enable us to help those less fortunate throughout Appala­ 72 C h r is t ia n A p p a l a c h ia n

5 .5 % 5.6 5.6 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.8 5.9 5.9 6.0 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7

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Rate 6.8 6.9 7.1 8.2 7.4 7.6 7.8 8.0 8.3 8.5 8.8 9.2 9.5 9.9 10.2 10.6 11.0 11.3

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Please use the following information to calculate my charitable gift annuity Name (Mr., Mrs., Ms, Miss)________________________ _ _________________________ Address

Telephone (

Birthdate Month

Amount of Gift Considered $ ________________________ Frequency of Payment Desired: d Annual d 2 times/year d 4 times/year dMonthly ($2,500 min) ($5,000 min) ($10,000 min) u y e s , I am interested in a Two-life Charitable Gift Annuity illustration.

Name of Second Beneficiary_____________________________ _____ Birthdate___________________________ PLEASE COMPLETE & Retu r n t o :

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

(ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED IS CONFIDENTIAL)

W arm Heads and W arm Smiles Children at CAP’s Family Life Child & Family Development Center were treated to a special story time and a special gift recently, thanks to a CAP donor and a CAP employee.

Annemarie Leikums, a longtime CAP donor and friend, is blessed with the talent to knit beautiful, warm hats and mittens, and she graciously shares her talents with CAP. From time to time, Annemarie sends these items to CAP for employees and vol­ unteers to distribute where they see a need.

Recently, she sent a box full of winter hats, made from a rainbow of colorful yam.

On a recent trip to Family Life CFDC, CAP employee Kathleen Leavell had the

interact with the children, and decided to read them a short story. The children loved the story, and were thrilled when Kathleen told them it was time to open the box Annemarie had sent. Excitement abounded as each child chose his or her hat and quickly tried it on for size.

The children were more than happy to pose for a group picture to show off their new hats, and wanted to keep them on long after the photo was taken.

“One child in particular became especially attached to his new hat, and wore it non-stop for several days

O ften th e sm allest of gifts can bring a b o u t a xnorld of happiness...

The children loved posing for a group picture to show off their new hats.

afterward,” said Becky Kana, manager of the center.

According to Becky, his mother said she couldn’t get him to wear anything else.

Often the smallest of gifts can bring about a world of happiness. A story read to a child can spark a love of books. A gift handmade with love can have Kathleen Leavell enjoys reading the children a short a longer lasting impact than any store-bought gift story during her visit. ever could. Both Kathleen and Annemarie gave of pleasure of delivering some of Annemarie’s themselves and sent a lasting message to a group of children that they are loved, creating warm heads and handiwork to the center’s children. At warm smiles. one time, Kathleen worked at another of

CAP Family Comes Together to Celebrate Christmas On December 15th, CAP celebrated Christmas by gathering at three CAP locations for food, fun and fellowship. CAP’S annual Christmas events are always much-anticipated, and this year was no exception. From delicious, homemade food to beautifully-sung Christmas carols, each site reflect­ ed the true spirit of Christmas.

The Hagerhill location hosted nearly 100 people, and featured over $1,000 in prizes that were donat­ ed by local businesses. Ron Castle and Karen Pescosolido entertained the group by singing songs; later during lunch, Christmas music served as a cheerful background. The church that was used as the event site was beautifully decorated and served as a relaxing place for friends to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate Christ’s birth.

The Lancaster celebration was also held at a local church, and hosted nearly as many people.

A wide variety of dishes satisfied many hearty appetites, and everyone joined together with Gwen Newcomb to sing several Christmas carols. A year­ ly favorite game, the ornament swap, was played once again, with much laughter and smiles ensu­ ing. Richard Ginn presented a wonderful Christmas message, to remind all present of why they were celebrating.

Mt. Vernon had a very good turnout, with about 120 people present. The event began with a read­ ing of the Christmas story and prayer. Following a delicious meal, Mike Loiacono provided beautiful music on piano, and generous door prizes were awarded. Everyone was invited to use a Karaoke machine to provide further entertainment, with a few brave souls volunteering.

In all, each location was a little different, but all in attendance were celebrating the same blessed event. Although the celebrations were held far apart, we were all close together in our thoughts and prayers.

Top to bottom: CAP employees and volunteers enjoy playing an ornament game. Gwen Newcomb and Johnny Thompson sing a duet of Silent Night for the group. Rhonda Hinkle, Wanda Penman, Lorie Baugh, Linda East and Vyonne Scott (left to right) pour drinks for the guests.

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One of the highlights of a child’s Christmas is getting to hand deliver their Christmas wish list to Santa Claus himself.

For children in rural Appalachia, however, a trip to a shopping mall is not practical.

For children with physical and develop­ mental disabilities, the chance to leave home for anything is often impossible.

To help meet this special need, Operation Sharing’s Jeff Burchett dons a Santa costume each year as Christmas nears. Jeff, who is 6’6” tall (6’8” with his boots on), isn’t the stereotypical elf-size Santa most kids are accustomed to seeing on TV, but his enthusiasm and caring more than make up for the difference in appearance.

Suzann Fenton, a fellow CAP employee, works with children with disabilities, and sees firsthand the joy that Jeff spreads.

“He really knows how to relate well to children with disabilities, and you really don’t find that a lot.” Having Santa pay visits to children whose disabilities keep

them homebound helps lift the spir­ its of children and parents alike.

Jeff and Suzann have teamed up every year for the past dozen years or so to spread Christmas joy to kids who other­ wise may never meet Santa.

Jeff says seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces and how happy it makes them are what make the effort worthwhile. He says one of his favorite memories is of a boy he met a few years back. “Santa, I know you’re the real Santa,” the boy said, “because you got the real boots on!”

Although he’s been called the world’s skinniest Santa, and says he’s possibly the world’s tallest Santa, Jeff is no doubt one of the most dedicated Santas.

Thanks, Jeff, for your dedication and love for the kids of Appalachia!

W jfl& e M o m o t 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 acknowledge­ ment 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

CAP Wellness Program Continues Be a Success Last year, CAP launched an initiative geared toward encouraging its employees and volun­ teers to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Since walking has been shown to be an easy, effective way to improve one’s health, that became the focus of the effort. A common recommendation is that most people walk 10,000 steps a day, through exercise and regular daily activities. Walking 10,000 steps a day, roughly the equivalent of five miles, helps improve overall health and can also help with weight loss efforts.

To help everyone track their steps, CAP’S Human Resources department distributed pedometers to all who wanted to participate. To further encourage the healthy habit of walking, a goal was set to log a total of 25,200,000 steps, or 12,600 miles. The challenge to all employees and volunteers was to reach this goal during a 12-week period in the sum­ mer. The challenge was a big success.

Building on the success and momentum of that challenge, a second one was issued in the fall, this time with walk­ ers forming teams. Each team was given a goal, and was encouraged not only to meet that goal, but to exceed it. Garry Vickers, a member of the Mud Flaps team, said that his team members walked whenever they could, either in groups or on their own. The only requirement was that everyone keep track of their steps and report them regularly.

Left to right - The Lancaster Mudd Flaps team included: Kendra Smith, Garry Vickers, Ellen Gill, Debra Owsley, Arlie Simpson, Debbie Nunemaker, Brenda Huffman, Johnetta Broaddus and Kathleen Leavell.

In November, following the completion of the second challenge, team members were reward­ ed with certificates congratulating them on their achievement. Teams who met their goals were given a trophy to proudly display.

Although all participants received external rewards, the best and perhaps longest-lasting reward appeared over time, in the form of teamwork, bonding and improved health.

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CAP eBay Venture Celebrates Two-Year Mark CAP recently marked its second anniversary of participating in eBay’s Giving Works program. The venture allows auction proceeds to go to a designated charity - in this case, CAP - to help fund programs. Giving Works is operated in conjunction with Mission Fish, an organization that provides information and resources to nonprofits interested in raising pro­ gram funds through online auctions.

CAP began its relationship with Mission Fish, Giving Works and eBay on a small scale, selling only a few items a week. Since then, more staff has been added, allowing for more auctions and more funds for CAP’S programs.

CAP receives a variety of items from generous donors.

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CAP eBay employees place items together that compliment each other.

For two years, donors have been providing CAP with a wide variety of items to be sold on eBay. Some are everyday things like clothing, Christmas decorations and books. Over time, these have been great sellers for CAP, netting lots of funding for programs. Occasionally a donor will provide rare or collectible items, such as pot­ tery, designer handbags and memorabilia of vary­ ing types. These items are the cause of much excitement, as they are sure to bring a higher selling price than other items.

For eBay buyers familiar with CAP’S auctions, much of the fun is checking the site weekly to see what new and interesting things are being offered. The wide variety is key in attracting a large number of interested buyers, says Executive Vice President Sue Sword, who is responsible for bringing the venture to CAP. She also says that the Giving Works aspect of eBay provides people with a quick and easy way to donate to a char­ ity they wish to support. Not only can they bid on items CAP has up for auction, they can also list items themselves through Giving Works, and des­ ignate part or all of the proceeds to go directly to CAP. Two years after it began, CAP’S eBay adven­ ture continues. To view our items currently being auctioned, visit www.ebay.com. Our seller name is christianappalachianproject123. Happy bidding!

It’s that time of year again... s p r in g cCeanbrin the opportunity to sort through unused items.

We would like to ask you to send us items to sell on our on­ line attic store. The monies collected from the sales help to fund our missions, which include our outreach efforts to families that need the basic necessities o f food and shelter, our housing de­ partment that provides valuable rehab work for families and our elderly, and most o f all necessities for our children. ..

Our Attic is operating through the nonprofit division o f eBay, which is called Mission Fish. So far wf?*** J B f c y , this effort has not only brought in monies, v it has also introduced CAP to thousands I* Kt \ \ o f people who were not aware o f our \ "/ ' / work in Appalachia. : ' We ask that during your spring l *i-r I k , * clean out that if you have jew'to P 1 elry, furniture, kitchen and I | housewares, knicknacks and especially antique items, you consider w y / donating them to us.

-'' If you like to shop or would like to list the I pr items yourself, please visit { ’ www.missionfish.org. Look for the Christian Appalachian Project and you will find us. We thank you for all you do from the bottom o f our hearts.

11

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D ebbie A dam s Christian A ppalachia Project 322 Crab Orchard Street Lancaster, K Y 4 0 444

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When she first started working at CAP in 1989, Suzann Fenton felt she lacked enough training to be truly successful in her job. Years later, Suzann is the one providing training, not only to children with dis­ abilities, but also to their families, and to organiza­ tions wanting to model their program after CAP’s Parents Are Teachers (PAT).

Suzann is a Teacher/Developmental Interventionist with PAT, a program that works with pre-school chil­ dren with disabilities and their parents. The program helps families leam more about their child’s disability and how they can help the child adapt to or overcome the disability.

Suzann is very emphatic about her gratitude to those who make her work possible. “I’m very indebt­ ed to our donors,” she says, adding that they play a more important role than they realize. Restrictions that are placed on agencies that are funded at the state or federal level do not apply to Parents Are Teachers, allowing Suzann to begin working with families sooner or for longer periods of time. Suzann says that because donors are willing to make a sacrifice, she’s able to work with a child and their family over an extended period of time and help the child leam and develop new skills.

“Because of our donors, we’re able to go ahead and do things,” she says, “rather than wait for an agency’s approval or for an official diagnosis.” In addition, she says that this has allowed CAP to step in and help families when no other agency would.

Suzann is equally emphatic that what she does is more than just a job. She feels that her work is a mission in itself, and feels blessed that she is able to express her faith through what she does for a liv­ ing. “It’s a ministry and I’m able to reach families and serve families,” she says. This blending of work

Fe n t o n w o r k s a t h o m e o M a k e a l a s t in g im p a c t and ministry led Suzann a few years ago to a desire to seek out mission work related to what she does at CAP. She says that working at CAP has impacted her life for the better, and has given her lots of opportuni­ ties to improve herself and reach out to others, and she felt the need to repay the favor by passing her passion and skills on to others.

Eventually she was introduced to an international mission involving an early intervention program based in China. Suzann says she was able to take what she has learned as a result of working at CAP and use that knowledge and experience to help others.

Suzann and those involved in working with the program had their work cut out for them. When she helped train the teachers made her first of four trips to the program in China, from the beginning, and the program itself has been she found that the workers weren’t even trained as modeled after PAT. teachers. She said China doesn’t provide training for

“TO TH IN K THIS LITTLE PROGRAM HAS IMPACTED A p p a l a c h i a s o m u c h a n d is n o w i m p a c t i n g c h i n a ” special education, partially because of the stigma attached to developmentally delayed children. She

Although she is a PAT veteran at this point, Suzann ^as ietained a fiesh appieciation and perspective foi the program she loves. She seems amazed as she recounts PAT’s humble beginnings in Kentucky and how its impact is now being felt a world away: “To think this little program has impacted Appalachia so much and is now impacting China.”

After several trips to China, Suzann says there are similarities between the two areas she’s served. She has found that both have large rural areas, and that both have large populations of people who simply Pictures left to right: (Taken during Suzann’s mission trips to China) Suzann Fenton feels that her work is a mission in itself. Suzann helps train the teachers for special education. Suzann says she loves the families and children she works with.

19

...SHE LOVES THE FAMILIES AND CHILDREN SHE WORKS WITH UNCONDITIONALLY AND ACCEPTS THEM AS

k •

THEY ARE...

can’t afford specialized treatment for their children.

At the end of the day, Suzann doesn’t care if the child she treated that day was American or Chinese. She says she loves the families and children she works with unconditionally and accepts them as they are, and has trained the staff in China to do the same.

Unfailingly grateful, Suzann again points out how CAP and its donors are responsible for her growth and success in her life’s work: “I’m just so much indebted to Christian Appalachian Project.” She says her leave time allowed her to complete her four mission trips, but also that over the years she’s taken advantage of the educational assistance program available to employees. This has allowed her to further her educa­ tion and hone her skills, which she is now able to pass on to others with a desire to help children with disabilities.

It is easy to see that Suzann Fenton receives as much love as she gives, as she tears up often when speaking about her work and how grateful she is to CAP and its donors for the far-reaching impact that has resulted. Despite the skill, knowledge and tire­ less work she has provided, she remains humble and unwilling to accept credit for what has been accom­ plished. She insists she is the one who should be thankful for her years of service with CAP: “I have been really blessed!”

W itts and %v isfling % ve[[s T o.oss s s a coin in a fountain and make a wish. vyour o n r estate? a t charities ill benefit estate? W Whhat charities w will benefit from from If you’re thinking about your future and what your estate? would happen should you die, you might say: “I wish that my brother, Tom, would handle my es­ will, properly prepared, lets you sleep bet­ tate.” Or perhaps, “I wish Aunt Etta would take ter at night. It makes your family rest better, too. care of my daughter.” Or maybe, “I wish that any estate taxes would be kept to a m inim um.” ^ P t^ s h in g wells may be fun for some things, You might also say, “I wish to give a portion but not when it comes to estate planning. When of my estate to CAP and other charities I care you’re dealing with your estate assets and vari­ about.” ous responsibilities it’s far better to “toss a coin” toward a qualified attorney who can help you ishes, wishes, wishes — that’s all they do things right. Granted it will take more than a are. And tossing coins into a wishing well won’t penny or two, but the certainty and satisfaction help. The only way you can be sure of these you receive will far outweigh any cost. things — to change them from wishes to certain­ ties — is to prepare a will or other appropriate w . can provide for you complimentary estate-planning document. brochures with helpful information about making

‘Ml

will is a way to make your wishes come true. In it, you list what you want to happen: Who will represent you through the process of probate? Who will care for any minor children?

Who will look after any trusts? Who will receive

a will. Complete this reply form and we will mail information to you promptly. Or request informa­ tion by calling us toll free at 1-866-270-4227.

□ Yes! Please send me the following information: ___ Please send me your complimentary will information brochures. ___Please contact me about a personal visit. The best time to call me is:_________________ ___I have provided for Christian Appalachian Project in my will or other estate-planning.

Name: A ddress:

r-ÊJ iMaifto:

City:_________________________________________ _ Christian Appalachian Project State:____ Zip:____________ Phone:____________________ Planned Giving Dept.

P. O. Box 511 Lancaster, KY 40444-0511 L

event Gifts, Sa 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 There are different kinds o f gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds o f service, but the same Lord. There are dif­ ferent kinds o f working, but

The Bible says that each of us possesses different kinds of gifts, each with the ability to uplift and pro­ mote God’s word. Each of us is charged with a duty to put that gift to use, and that is exactly what is being done by CAP volunteer TJ Sellner.

TJ, originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, is not only using his gift of teaching while at CAP, he’s also sharing his talent with art. TJ graduated from Aquinas College with a degree in education, preparing him perfectly for his role as an instructor at CAP’s Adult Education program. It also served him well when he previously volunteered at CAP as a camp counselor

the same God works all o f them in all men.

at Camp Andrew Jackson in the early 1990s.

Between his prior service with CAP and his time now, TJ worked in the banking industry, often working with a large Hispanic customer base. “That was a mission itself,” he remembers, noting that he helped them

me Spirit overcome language and cultural barriers to receive banking services.

Feeling a call to focus again on his educa­ tion, TJ returned to college, this time to work toward a bachelor of fine arts degree, a long­ time dream. Honing his skills in art not only fulfilled TJ’s dream, it was also preparing him for his return to CAP. TJ’s year-long commitment to volunteer service at Adult Education began in September of last year, and within

e are very fortunate that he has return to this area, and share his knowledge and love of art with thos of us who are seeking to learn, and love art as well. a month, he was teaching an art class to local residents.

TJ remains humble about his artistic abilities, insisting he’s “not one of the best sketchers.” His stu­ dents, however, respect and admire his ability to con­ vey his talent and skill on to them.

Tanya Cook, who attends TJ’s art class with her husband, Stanley, has written about her love of the class in her local newspaper, where she has a regular column. “The class is quite interesting, and the time spent there seems to really fly,” she writes. She and her husband enjoy the class because it gives them a chance to enjoy a hobby together, and they get to

spend time with others who share their interests. “We are very fortunate that he has chosen to return to this area, and share his knowledge and love of art with those of us who are seeking to learn, and love art as well.”

TJ seems to really enjoy sharing his combined gifts of art and teaching. “I never thought I’d be teaching an art class,” he says happily. He challenges himself and his students every week, he notes. “I don’t want them to go into a class where they’re going to be bored.”

TJ says that volunteering has changed the way he looks at the world, and invites others to commit to the experience as well. “If you have an opportunity to serve, challenge yourself and see what you’re made of,” he says, adding, “You do make a difference.”

Although his students at the Adult Education pro­ gram and the art class are no doubt benefiting from his knowledge, talent and dedication, TJ feels he receives more than they do, sharing a sentiment of countless volunteers past and present. “We’re here to serve, yet we’re the ones that have grown the most.”

Pictures left to right - TJ challenges a participant’s artistic ability in his art class. TJ remains humble about his artistic abilities insisting he’s “not one of the best sketchers.”

23

*

Wanted: Silly, Whimsical Camp Volunteers

I have a confes­ sion to make. I am afraid of CAP’S summer camp volun­ c a n ’t w a i t t o g o teers. Camp volunteers b a c K t o c a m p 'embrace the silly, the whimsical, the outright crazy—and they scare me to death. As I have gotten older, I have become much too serious, and frankly, I just can’t handle all that enthusiasm.

My first experience with our summer camp vol­ unteers was when I was a long-term volunteer with CAP. As the group approached me (they travel in packs), my too-grown-up self felt threatened by their rhythmic chanting, camp songs and painted faces. I backed away slowly and hoped that our counselors, lifeguards and medical personnel—like bears—would not attack if I made no sudden movements.

Of course, I have come to learn that the characteristics of camp volunteers that make me so nervous are exactly what make CAP summer camps so memorable for more than 1,000 Appalachian children each summer.

Having to contend with serious par-

ents and teachers throughout most of the year, CAP campers cherish the opportunity to give themselves over to silliness and just have fun. For many of the children CAP serves, their week of camp is the only vacation they will have all year, and our volunteers make it a special one.

Though most camp volunteers are college stu­ dents, silliness knows no age, and CAP welcomes applications from anyone 18 and older who is ener­ getic, loves children, and is capable of frightening me into the fetal position. As an added benefit this year, CAP will be offering camp volunteers the oppor­ tunity to volunteer at the Ichthus Christian Music Festival June 14-16. In addition, we are pleased to offer a scholarship to volunteers who serve all nine weeks (May 29-July 27) of camp. So if you think you or someone you know is silly enough to be a camp volunteer, visit our website or call the number below to request an application. This summer, our volunteers will change children s lives, '^ W Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê make new friends and maybe—just maybe—frighten me into giving m ^ 9 * $ ¡ them my food supply.

Amy Schill Ml- ® * f l 1 CAP Volunteer Recruiter *

WANTED: “IJF iJE?99 CAMP VO LUF n u n s : Contact us tocfoy to le^rn how you can make a 4ifference in a chilcj's life this summer.

CAP Volunteer Program

4192 North Wilderness Road Mt. Vernon, KY 40456 1-800-755-5322 volunteer@chrisapp.org

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fJhe miuacledof natwie do not deem moulded tfieif one docommon. <Jf no one had deen a eoen a dandelion w ould he a moot dUvtiiing event in the would.

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still have to mow it.

Every flower must grow through dirt.

Jn euexif w alk with natwie, one received fw i moue than he deehd.

God tries you with a little, to see what you'd do with a lot.

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A P P AL ACHI AN

D E L I C I O U S RECIPES YOU WILL ENJOY SHAFUN

SIoxd Cooker Ham

M ustard Potato Salad Recipe

1 (8 pounds) cured, bone-in picnic ham 2 cups packed brown sugar

6 medium red potatoes, boiled in skins until tender and cooled 1/2 large sweet onion, diced 2 large stalks of celery, diced 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish 1 teaspoon celery seed 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup mustard 1 tablespoon white vinegar or pickle juice

Spread about 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar on the bottom of the slow cooker crock. Place the ham flat side down into the slow cooker - if necessary, trim ham a little to make it fit. Hand-rub the remaining brown sugar onto the ham.

Cover, and cook on low for 8 hours.

Chees\j Potatoes and Onions 6 medium potatoes (3 pounds), peeled and thinly sliced 1 large onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings 1 (6-ounce) package cheese slices 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided 3/4 teaspoon pepper, divided 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese 1/4 cup butter or magarine 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups warm milk Cook potatoes in boiling water cover 5 minutes; drain.

Layer one-third potato slices, one-third onion slices, and one-third cheese slices in a lightly greased 13x9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 tea­ spoon pepper. Repeat layers twice with remaining pota­ toes, onions, cheese slices, salt and pepper. Top with Cheddar cheese.

Cut cooked potatoes into cubes with skin on or scrape off the skin with a butter knife and cube. Place in a large mix­ ing bowl with sweet onion, celery, chopped hard-boiled eggs, pickle relish, celery seed, salt and pepper.

Toss gently.

Whisk together mayonnaise, mustard and vinegar or pick­ le juice. Mix into potatoes and vegetables until combined.

Sprinkle with a light dusting of sweet paprika. Refrigerate at least 4 hours to let flavors blend before serving.

Sauteed Su gar Peas

Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat; add flour, whisking until smooth. Cook, whisking constantly, 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Remove from heat; pour over potato mixture.

1 tablespoon butter 1 1/2 cups fresh snow peas, or 2 (6-ounce) packages frozen snow peas, thawed 1 teaspoon granulated sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Bake at 400F for 35 minutes or until golden. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

In large skillet melt butter over medium-high heat; stir in snow peas; cook and stir for 2 to 3 minutes, until peas are

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

crisp-tender. Stir in sugar, salt and pepper, toss well. Serve immediately.

Stracoberr\) Salad 1 bunch of romaine lettuce (washed, tough ends removed, coarsely cut) 1 pint fresh strawberries (washed, stemmed and halved) 1/2 medium red onion sugared almonds (1/2 cup slivered almonds, 2 tablespoons butter, 1/3 cup granulated sugar) Dressing 3/4 cup light mayonnaise 1/4 cup milk 2 tablespoons raspberry vinegar 2 tablespoons poppy seeds 1/3 cup granulated sugar Sugared Almonds - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter, stir in almonds and 1/3 cup sugar.

Saute until golden brown.

In a salad bowl combine lettuce, strawberries, onion and the sugared almonds. Mix dressing ingredients together in a small mixing bowl and then toss with salad. Chill briefly and serve.

Cream Cheese C om 1 (16-ounce) package frozen com kernels 2 tablespoons butter 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

stirring occasionally, over moderately low heat until mixture is combined and heated through. Serve hot.

C h erry Cola Salad 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, undrained 1 (10-ounce) bottle maraschino cherries, undrained 1 (3-ounce) package cherry-flavored gelatin 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup chopped pecans 3/4 cup cola-flavored beverage Drain pineapple and cherries, reserving liquid in a medi­ um saucepan. Sprinkle gelatin over liquid mixture, and let stand 1 minute. Cook over medium heat, stirring con­ stantly, until gelatin dissolves; remove from heat. Add cream cheese, stirring until smooth. Stir in fmit, pecans, and cola-flavored beverage. Pour into a serving dish or a lightly-oiled 4 cup mold. Cover and chill until firm.

In medium saucepan cook com according to package direc­ tions and drain liquid. Add butter and cream cheese. Cook,

If so, send us a recipe card in the envelope provided or write to us at: Christian A ppalachian Project, Publications Department, P.O. B o x 511, Lancaster, K Y 40444-0511 27

0 0

O Ks

Affliction

Tears ofJoy

God would not send you darkness, dear, if he felt you could hear the light.

But you would not cling to his guiding hand if the way were always bright and you would not care to walk by faith could you always walk by sight.

I am so happy I could and have cried tears of joy.

I no longer carry that loneliness deep with­ in my heart.

I no longer feel each time I take one step forward Something or someone would pull me two steps backwards.

I no longer feel I’ve fallen into a deep dark hole Trying to climb out only to slip in deeper and deeper.

I no longer have to pray to the Lord to take away The pain, the sadness, and the loneliness I have Carried with me most of my life.

Now, I thank the Lord for having peace of mind Peace of heart, and peace within myself.

I thank the Lord for the happiness, the contentment The joy you and He have brought into my life.

Yes! I thank the Lord for you!

It’s true, He has many anguish for your sorrowful heart to bear many cruel thorn crown for your tired head to wear.

He knows how few would reach Heaven at all if pain did not guide them there.

So He sends you the blinding darkness and the furnace of seven fold heat.

It’s the only way, believe me, to keep you close to his feet for it’s always so easy to wander when our lives are glad and free.

Then nestle your hands in your Father’s and sign if you can as you go for song may cheer someone behind you whose courage is sinking low; and well if your lips do quiver God will love you better so.

Dorothy Lewis Jenkins Midland, VA

Paul E. Giguere Springfield, MA

W e w o u ld lo v e t o h e a r f r o m y o u !

Please send us your poetry, with permission to print in an upcoming issue of The Mountain Spirit.

28

Say "Hello”to Life So much of life is saying “good-bye” Looking away and wondering why.

But if we can say “hello” to life, We can be brave through the pain and the strife.

Because not knowing the answer and saying “good­ bye” Is the reason for faith and the will to try.

So, let’s try to walk happy The road we are on.

And remember to smile When the sorrow is gone.

For it is true that those who dream And don’t give up Will find a gold piece In life’s cup.

Patti Merrill Hernandez, NM

Brothers We are, our brothers keepersso lend him a helping handAsk what you can do for himthen reach out and take a standVisit the shut-ins­ take groceries to the poorgive shelter to the homelessdo not close your doorWhen young mothers load is heavygive her children careyoung adults, spend time with them in prayerGod will richly reward youfor your loving waysHe will guide you as others you serve each and every day.

Wanda Elrod Dayton, OH

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From Our Pa&t...

E x c e r p t s fr o m th e M ay - June 1998 Mountain Spirit

The May - June Theme Welfare reform will be responsible for some of the most dramatic changes in Appalachia since the out-migration of the 1950s. People who work in adult education programs have doubled their efforts to help people who are entering the work force - some for the first time - to attain the education now being required even for entry level jobs.

This issue of The Mountain Spirit looks at the efforts adult students are making to achieve their goals.

A Return to the Classroom

by Beth Dotson

They dropped out of school years ago, but they still remember why.

“I got pregnant.”

“I got married.”

“They didn’t take the time to help me.”

Today, these four women, who have children of their own in school, are once again students. Every week, they walk up the steps of a bus, not to ride to a school but to enter their classroom in the KeithMiller Education Center. The center is a school bus that has been converted to serve as a classroom.

“It’s got all the materials and everything you need right there on the bus to teach an effective GED

Original photo by Beth Dotson

class,” said Bill Tussey, program manager for adult education in the Christian Appalachian Project’s Salyersville office in Magoffin County. Besides the books customary for classroom use, it also has a fax machine, computer, printer and even a small coffeepot. “Once we have met the needs in the area, or if things don’t work out in an area, we can pull up stakes and relocate that bus easily,” Bill said.

31