The Salvation Army
By Carolyn Purcell
I had been a member of the Advisory Board of The Salvation Army for three years when I took the tour. My life changed that day. I became a philanthropist. I give my time and my money, and The Salvation Army is in my will.
On the tour I saw the chapel, the gym that houses the Boys and Girls Club after- school program, and the Early Learning Center, where low-income, pre-school children are made ready for school. I went to the shelter where I saw the social workers' offices, the free medical clinic, rooms where life-skills are taught and dormitory rooms where homeless women live. All the while I thought, I had no idea The Salvation Army did all of this.
Finally, I saw a family room. It was about the size of my bathroom. The idea that a whole family lived in that little room was like a gut punch. I was shaken.
Then I heard a mother say how grateful she was for that room, the alternative being her car or a cardboard box under the Jefferson Street Bridge, her children not allowed in school because they had no address. She was grateful that her older children can visit the Boys and Girls Club programs after school, and the little ones can be cared for in the Early Learning Center while she gets job training. They don't live in that little room; they live all over the place, and they are safe.
I've been on countless tours since that first one. Each time I watch for the person whose eyes fill with tears when he or she sees one of those nineteen family rooms. I take them aside and tell them about the grateful mother. It makes me grateful, too.
Locks of Love
By Stephanie Jo McConnell
"Why is hair so emotional," a client once asked. We've all had a bad haircut. How did it feel? People tell me they were angry because their hairdresser didn't listen to what they wanted, some cried, and others felt so ugly they didn't want to leave the house.
For over 20 years I've encouraged clients to make a change. "You're not a Barbie or Ken doll; it will grow back."
Imagine if you didn't have any hair. What would you do?
Many suffer from alopecia areata (baldness in spots) or alopecia totallis (total baldness). Both have no known cause or cure. Then, there are those who lose their hair from chemotherapy.
Locks of Love is a non-profit organization that provides wigs to disadvantaged children for free. New hair pieces can cost between $3,500 and $6,000. These costs are prohibitive for families paying the expense of cancer treatments.
The most beautiful people I have met in this career are the ones who come into the salon wanting to give more than gain. Realizing they have the required 8-10 inches to donate, they are excited.
John Grossman was the most recent "true beauty." He sat in my chair with hair that could take over the planet and asked, "Have you hard of an organization called Locks of Love?" His smile was contagious.
After surrendering four full ponytails, I offered to ship it but was amazed when he said, "I'd like to do that myself and learn more about the organization." Without his "locks" he not only looked fabulous on the outside, but his inner beauty shined through.
In this time of recession, do you have enough hair to give a free gift? Fact: Hair grows an average of half an inch per month. Start now and you could give a great gift next year.
The Arboretum
By Virginia Long
I grew up in Lexington near the heart of downtown. In 1963, I married a man whose youth had been spent in the country.The summer following our marriage, he turned the soil and began to teach me the pleasures of gardening.
This enjoyment we shared led us to volunteer at The Arboretum. We had watched the blossoming from its infancy in 1991 to the 100 acre oasis that now graces our sprawling city. It is not only a sanctuary to the numerous varieties of plant life and living creatures that abide there, but to all who visit its breathtaking gardens. It is a "must see" for tourists as well as a refuge and source of joy for those of us lucky enough to live in Lexington and the surrounding area. Each year, when I think it can't grow more beautiful, it surprises me by doing so.
We cared for our plot there, weeding and deadheading as if it was our own. Volunteers make it possible for all to soak up its beauty and soothing ambiance. We believed that in some small way we added to the pleasure of others.
In an effort to contribute time and talent to the needs of our fellow human beings, we must know and understand the importance of caring for all creation. They are forever intertwined.
I lost my beloved husband and friend earlier this year. Among my numerous fond memories are the times we spent together tending the soil and watching with amazement as each spring unfolded with new life. I feel closest to his spirit in a garden and will return once again as a volunteer at The Arboretum.
The Arboretum
By Jan Czochara
It is a hot summer afternoon; the sun is shining brightly and the sweat rolls off me into the earth. I close my eyes, take a deep breath and inhale the sweet smell of thousands of roses. Yes, I am at The Arboretum tending to my adopted rose plot. Nowhere else in Lexington, indeed in the State of Kentucky, could I find this grace. This is my chosen placeÖwhere I can learn, laugh and do good work.
As a child, I grew up in Chicago where a garden meant a 10' backyard plot. I was luckyÖmy grandparents bought an adjacent lot where they planted a huge, bountiful garden. One of the pleasures of summer was spending the day playing in their yard and garden, chasing butterflies and tending to the plots. My grandfather and I picked carrots (sweet as could be with the stems and leaves still attached), rinsed them with the garden hose and munched on them while sitting in the shade on the huge swing. Most of the time we talked but sometimes we silently whiled away the afternoon. Who knew these simple times in the garden would result in a love for nature that endures to this day?
I've been a volunteer at The Arboretum for five yearsÖplanting in the spring, tending to "my" roses, chairing events and writing grants. Our recent focus has been to raise funds for the 2-acre Kentucky-themed Children's Garden. Construction is underway but $300,000 is needed to bring the garden to completion. Just as I had a special garden to play in as a child, I hope the Kentucky Children's Garden will enchant and engage future generations of Kentuckians to become good stewards of our Earth, a true gift from God.
Lexington Humane Society
By Laura Farnsworth
It was never my intention to get a dog but I had tagged along with a friend to the Lexington Humane Society. As soon as I saw what would be my forever friend, my heart melted. Too old to be a puppy, but too small to be with the big dogs, a docile Jack Russell in the small dog room caught my eye and I was a gonner.
Five years later Kylie has become more than just a friend. She's been a pillow, an alarm clock, an exercise companion, and a vacuum. Two years ago I added another LHS dog to my family, a Jack Russell named Bailey.
Each year thousands of animals in Fayette County find themselves up for adoption. As a volunteer at LHS, I have the opportunity to help out around the shelter. From working the Pampered Paws Boutique to running errands for the staff, everyone working at LHS goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome and appreciated. Many of them have adopted pets themselves!
If you are unable to adopt a pet, LHS always needs volunteers to come and walk the animals! They have a size for everyone, from puppies to senior dogs who, trust me, can get out and have as much fun as the youngsters! They are also always in need of pet food and supplies. I love taking a box of dog treats (make sure you get brown treats, not the colored ones) and walking through the dog room handing them out! Where else can you see 50 dogs smile and shout for a few dollars?
By making adoption my only option, I couldn't be happier with my experiences with LHS, from my own dogs to the friendships I have made, this is a fantastic organization that always needs more volunteers!
Ashland Terrace
By Bette Enright
In 2003 it became apparent that my mother needed to give up living alone and consider a Retirement Home. I live in Naperville, Ill., so I began looking in the Chicago suburbs. Since Mother wanted to remain near her friends and church, we focused on Lexington. One name, Ashland Terrace, came highly recommended by four totally different sources.
In researching "How to Choose a Retirement Home," one statement stayed with me: "When you find the right place, you will know immediately."
When we arrived at Ashland Terrace after visiting several facilities, a lovely lady greeted us at the door and welcomed us to her home. She introduced us to Ric McGee, the Director, who gave us a tour of the sparkling clean house, beautiful flower and vegetable gardens, fish ponds, and my mother's favorite, the many bird feeders. Throughout our visit we met the wonderful ladies who call Ashland Terrace, "Home."
My research was correct. I knew before we had taken more than three steps inside Ashland Terrace that this was where my mother belonged - more importantly, so did she. This was "Home." Everyone, staff and residents, care for each other with much love and generosity of heart.
I would love to have my mother closer to me and she will be one day but for now I have such peace of mind knowing she is exactly where she needs to be. Everyone keeps an eye on her, just as they would their own mothers. They do things that money can't buy for each lady with such caring love - priceless!
Ashland Terrace is Lexington's best kept secret.
I only wish it could be duplicated in Naperville. Everyone needs an "Ashland Terrace" for their most loved Mothers.
Ashland Terrace
By Cassandra Fossett
Ashland Terrace Retirement Home is Lexington's best kept secret for women only elder care. I started volunteering at Ashland Terrace for school in August 2009 and the experiences I've had have changed my life. Ashland Terrace is not only a retirement home but a close knit family. Each morning I'm greeted with hugs and kisses from the ladies and the kindness never ends. One particular experience I'll never forget was last September. When a resident of ours failed to show up for breakfast, I was devastated when I went to her room and had discovered that she had passed away in her sleep. This woman was not only a resident but like many of the other woman here she had become a friend. I was also very worried about how the other women would respond when I told them about the news of their friend passing away. As I privately went to each resident's room, I was amazed with the outpouring of concern and love they showed me. I can't even put into words how they made me feel. One of the residents wrote me a card sharing with me how much she appreciated me which I proudly showed to all my friends. This same resident even wrote my mother a card that brought her to tears! With the help of the residents and staff here, I've been able to handle my experience a lot better than I could have on my own. I've never felt more appreciated and cared about than I do at Ashland Terrace. The residents and staff here are the most genuine people I've ever met. I am 23 years old, and ironically, the average age of my friends is 90. Although I'm leaving Ashland Terrace soon, I'll never forget the time I've spent here.
Be-Loved
By Melanie Antonik
Be-Loved, from its very first moments,has been about impacting and reaching women that most use or judge. As a volunteer, I've gotten the gift of seeing divisive lines erased and hope and love extended to adult entertainers. My first time getting to take gifts for the girls into a club has left me forever changed. Getting to meet and talk to a few of the women and let them know they are really wanted, left me amazed and stunned by what unconditional love can do for and in a person's heart. I'm excited to see the women who will find hope and rescue through Be-Loved.
Bluegrass Christian Adoption Services
By Amy Branham
I mean absolutely no disrespect to mothers who have given birth, but an adoptive parent has a 'pregnancy' that lasts for two to five years. On top of that, you may have gone through years of miscarriages, testing and infertility treatments before you begin the process of adoption. So needless to say, there is a lot of pain and anguish before a child becomes yours.
But I cannot even imagine the pain and suffering of a birth parent. Many times they go through the shock, stress, and decisions related to an unplanned pregnancy without the support of family. If the family is involved and supportive, it is painful for them as well. Making a decision to make an adoption plan is the most selfless act in humanity.
This is where Bluegrass Christian Adoption Services is vital to our community. BCAS is a state licensed child-placing agency dedicated to providing supportive adoption services to children, birthparents and adoptive families with professionalism, integrity, dignity, and respect.
As an adoptive parent, I have been a recipient of the love and support provided by this organization. Our son is my heart and I cannot imagine my life without him.
Now as a volunteer of this organization, I have seen 'the other side'. Every birth mother, father, and family that works through this process with BCAS is shown God's love through the amazing work of the staff. I have seen birthparents build relationships with adoptive families that still amaze me. I have seen birthparents decide to have no relationship with their child or adoptive family. Regardless of the path chosen, they all know they have been loved and have made the right decision for their life.
Please help BCAS continue to make this world a little better one baby at a time.
Bluegrass Community Foundation
By Tracy Lambert, Lafayette High School
I don't teach Math, English, ScienceÖnot even Spanish. I am a French teacher and for the past ten years, part of my job has been to convince students that what we are learning is valuable and relevant. I am often overlooked for funding because French isn't assessed on the state standardized tests. My average student doesn't own a passport. His family doesn't have the money to send him overseas. It's hard for me to explain to a 15-year-old with a baby at home or a 16-year-old who works to support his family that what French has anything to do with them. Many of them only keep coming to class because they respect me as a person, they understand that I work hard to make them feel valued, and they honor the relationship we have.
The Blue Grass Community Foundation made it possible for me to build on that idea of RELATIONSHIPS. With the money we received for our project entitled, Using Partner Schools to Create a Global Classroom, we were able to forge a relationship with a classroom in Paris. Our project included the exchange of letters, CD's, photos, videos, magazines, and other personal gifts. The students stopped showing up to please me, but began to learn in order to build a friendship. Now students have a connection with someone across the world and there are hundreds of new opportunities on their horizon.
I have observed remarkable improvement in language proficiency since I introduced this "real" audience for their work. On standardized language proficiency tests, 88% of students scored at grade level or above on Reading and 96% of students scored at grade level or above for writing. Most remarkable, however, is that my students are now empowered to see their role in the world community.
CASA of Lexington
By Jane Bennington
"The test of the morality of a society is what it does for its children," said. Dietrich Bonhoeffer. CASA of Lexington is doing things every day for our most vulnerable children. Without breaching confidentiality, I cannot give you details of the cases I have worked on. Suffice it to say, that I have received scores more than I have given over 20+ years of volunteering with CASA. There is nothing quite as rewarding as knowing that you have helped move children from abusive situations into safe, permanent, loving homes. The renewed hope and faith in humanity that comes with seeing successful outcomes for abused children is astonishing. When the evening news eats away at my faith in humanity, seeing CASA at work restores it.
When CASA is appointed, 99% of the children served do not experience a recurrence of abuse or neglect. Stopping the cycle of violence is happening every day through CASA.
With only 2 paid staff, much of the work is provided by well trained, supervised volunteers. Each volunteer must complete 40 hours of training before they begin with direct service to children. Once assigned to a case,
the volunteer must maintain contact with the children they serve and many others involved with the children. Cases often running for 2 years. These are dedicated volunteers. While many people are not in a position to make that kind of time commitment, nearly everyone can donate something. CASA runs 2 full training sessions a year. They are always in need of more volunteers and more funding. Their minimal budget goes to pay for the volunteer coordinators, social workers who supervise the volunteers. Training materials and a low operating budget also require funding.
Through my years of experience with CASA, I believe strongly in Frederic Douglas' ideal that "it is easier to build strong children than to fix broken men."
Central Kentucky Riding for Hope
By Ginger Adams
Central Kentucky Riding for Hope (CKRH) provides Equine Assisted Activities and therapies designed for people with disabilities or diverse needs. Our daughter Mahalia receives Hippotherapy, a physical, occupational or speech therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement.
Mahalia was born 6 weeks premature and was diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), typically a sign of cerebral palsy (CP); and strabismus, crossing of the eyes. She has never walked unassisted, and has received PT, OT and speech therapy from 6 months of age.
Hallie started receiving OT at CKRH in July 2008, before their new indoor facility was open. Chico was her first horse therapist. From the first moment on the horse she was in love. She followed directions given by Ms. Becky, her human OT, without hesitation. Chico, all the while, responding to her ability, or inability, to balance while reaching for rings, laying across his back, or riding while on her hands and knees. Chico was not only a steady ride for Hallie, but never waivered, no matter the distraction from around the open outdoor ring.
In August 2009 Hallie had surgery and CKRH took her back in September with a PT focus. Ms. Shelby, her human PT, follows the protocol from the surgeon to be sure that everything is covered. Currently, her horse therapists are Socialite and Annie. Each horse has its own unique abilities in working with each child. One may have an easier gait than the other; one may be more in tune with a child who is prone to seizures. Today they enjoy working in the new indoor facility, with each horse providing undivided attention to their precious cargo on-board. All of this is due to the incredible training and hands on work with each horse to be sure that everyone benefits from these sessions.
Central Kentucky Riding for Hope
By Pat Wallace
Central Kentucky Riding for Hope is an organization that has done so much for special-needs children and adults, including my 9-year-old son, Kent, who has Down syndrome. Once while out in the country, Kent climbed up on a fence and pointed to some horses and with a lisp said, "Horse!" He was so intrigued with the horses that it was hard to break him away from the fence to go home. After signing him up for lessons at CKRH, I wasn't sure what to expect knowing that Kent had low muscle tone and it might interfere. However, my fears were soon laid to rest once I met the wonderful staff and volunteers. They were so reassuring, kind and patient; I could just sense their love for these kids! As Kent was first introduced to a horse and asked to pet it, he would not go near it and even pulled away and hid behind my legs.
Eventually, the staff got him to pet the horse and he soon realized it was o.k. Little by little, Kent grew to trust the horses up close with the generous help of the volunteers. Riding lessons focus on specific physical and academic goals. His session for the fall has ended but he will soon start back up in the spring. In the meantime, when I get Kent off of the school bus, he looks up at me with his almond-shaped tender brown eyes and says with his lisp, "Horse?" I tell him not today, but soon. He bows his head back down as though he understands. Thank you CKRH for giving my son such a wonderful experience that even a month later he is still requesting to go riding. He has a big hug waiting for all of you at CKRH!
Central Kentucky Riding For Hope
By Jill Mackey
It's Monday morning and I'm on my way to the Horse Park and Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, a therapeutic riding center for people with handicaps where I volunteer as a sidewalker for riders needing assistance and guidance in equine related therapy. Every session and every rider are different, but the remarkable thing, to me, is the joy it gives me every day. No day is a bad day when riders with physical or mental disabilities can experience the calming effect of walking their horse around the arena and learning to guide that big critter! What a sense of power! The movement of the horse builds core strength and balance in those with weaknesses and helps focus attention for those who are distracted easily. Our bereavement sessions give children who have lost a loved one the setting to relax and talk about the loss, sometimes to an instructor and sometimes to the horse! Many of the programs focus on cooperation and team effort. Others on preschool readiness. The Special Olympics give our riders a chance to show off what they have learned. They are all winners! The list of benefits goes on and on. For me, it comes down to the smiles, giggles and feelings of accomplishment our participants experience. That makes every day I volunteer at CKRH a special one and gives me great satisfaction. How many people can say they love what they do and get a big smile on their face when they go to work! This volunteer position gives back, a hundredfold.
Child Development Centers of the Bluegrass
By Ginger Adams
Child Development Centers of the Bluegrass (CDCB) is an early intervention, full-day preschool facility for children with and without disabilities that has been serving families in Central Kentucky for over 50 years. Providing all therapy disciplines; physical, occupational, speech and developmental intervention.
Mahalia was born 6 weeks premature and was diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), typically a sign of cerebral palsy (CP); and strabismus, crossing of the eyes. She has never walked unassisted, so it was clear early on that her needs were going to be more than a typical day care could provide.
From 6 months of age Hallie has received PT, OT, and speech. CDCB's in-house therapy allows the therapists to work with her teachers, so they know how to assist her throughout the day; enhancing her play and learning time by using the skills she learns in therapy. They are equipped with walkers, which she uses to get around inside and out independently. They have therapeutic equipment inside and out to play on, which also affords her the opportunity to work on her mobility skills while still having fun. Even though she does require more hands on assistance, she is not treated much differently because of her inability to walk; and with their high teacher:child ratios everyone gets the much needed attention they each deserve.
In August, Hallie had surgery and CDCB went above and beyond for her. Her PT drove 40 miles to our house to be sure Hallie received the required 4-6 hours per week of therapy prescribed. After two weeks they took her back half-days to be sure she received her therapy. Each teacher learned how to lift and position her, without hesitation. All the while the teachers have been assisting us with her daily exercises prescribed by her surgeon. They are the BEST!
Children of the Americas
By Renee Mellin
"NURSES NEEDED"...two simple words in a newspaper headline that changed my world. It was December 2003 and Children of the Americas (COTA), a local non-profit, was recruiting for their annual January mission trip to Guatemala.
After a flurry of faxes and forms, my husband and I found ourselves in a remote Mayan village converting a closet into a makeshift operating room. We worked for a week, helping a Cincinnati plastic surgeon, a Pittsburgh surgical resident and a Bowling Green anesthetist perform cleft lip and palate repairs on adorable Guatemalan children. The electrical circuits to our OR blew out several times a day, forcing us to use flashlights and our ingenuity to finish operations. We bonded quickly in our cozy closet, forming lifelong friendships, making magical memories and changing the lives of our tiny patients.
My involvement with COTA didn't end when my first challenging week was over. At first, I became involved in the month-to-month battle to procure donations and supplies and to pack them properly to ship down for the following years trip. Six years have passed since my first trip and I am now responsible for staffing, stocking and running up to eight OR tables with four different surgical specialties.Our January teams have grown in size from thirty to over one hundred volunteers. Our weekly surgical volume has increased from forty cases to a peak of 120 procedures performed. All in all, a far cry from a converted closet with erratic electricity and minimal supplies. This organization has given me purpose to my life in ways that a paycheck never could. I will always have fond memories of that first trip and the two words that started me on my journey of giving..."NURSES NEEDED".
Chrysalis House, Inc.
By Alberta
I was abused physically, mentally, and emotionally from the time I was five. My father (my abuser) introduced me to drugs and alcohol. I starting taking pills and drinking at the age of twelve. Every day, I was told I was stupid, ugly, and worthless.
In 2000 my father passed away and I started drinking and drugging heavily. In 2001, I gave birth to my first son Brady, followed by Austin in 2004. I needed help. I put my boys in foster care and sought treatment. I found Chrysalis House. Here, I found the serenity and sobriety that I needed so badly. I was welcomed with open arms and hearts when I came through the doors. I was scared but determined to take advantage of all this program has to offer me and my family. I learned so much in the classes and took full advantage of job club. I regained custody of both my boys on April 27, 2009.
The Chrysalis House helps me each day to know that I am cared about, loved, and appreciated. I volunteer at the Chrysalis House, mentoring women entering the program and helping out with whatever they need Ö I want to give back what they have given to me. My boys and I still have regular therapy sessions with the Chrysalis House therapists. They also go to the afterschool program where they learn so much. Chrysalis House gave me the opportunity to know my children again and provide them a structured healthy environment. I now know my life is worth living. I have never been a bad person, I was a sick person. I will always remember who I was, what I went through, and how I got to where I am today thanks to the Chrysalis house.
Faith in Action
By Vicki Batzka
I have been blessed to work as a volunteer for Faith in Action, which is dedicated to helping seniors remain in their homes by providing certain services to assist them. One of my recipients had been born and raised in France and had marvelous stories to tell me about her life prior to and during World War II. She also talked about coming to this country as a new bride, not speaking the language and the challenges she faced. Another of my recipients is Swiss/Italian and was in the Italian Army during World War II. His stories about his military experiences taught me that the "greatest generation" applies to more than just Americans. Another recipient was married to a military flyer and lived in many places. She served as head of the Red Cross in this area. What a wealth of history and endurance my new friends have presented to me!
It is my privilege to be able to assist such seniors by providing transportation for doctors' appointments, shopping, and personal appointments such as beauty shop. I also simply walk with one of my friends, whose spouse was disabled and who has enough dementia as to not be able to go out alone. Faith in Action provides me with opportunities for serving seniors now and I hope the program will still be functional when I am older and need the same services. Helping now is a form of insurance that when I need help, there will be others willing to assist me.
Fishhook International
By W. David Hager, M.D.
Fishhook International is a charitable, Christian organization that focuses its ministry emphasis on work in India. I was encouraged by their executive directors, Kim and Will Turkington, to consider going to India to witness the work that the organization supports in the Southeastern region. There are 6.8 billion people in the world today and 1.2 billion of them live in India, so the needs there are great and diversified.
Fishhook supports the work of nationals in India who minister to widows, orphans, displaced women, the impoverished and the outcast. This work includes orphanages; sewing schools for women; provision of food to the hungry and shelter for the homeless; elementary and secondary schools, and village medical clinics.
In India male obstetrician/gynecologists are rare. Most of this specialty care is provided by female Ob/Gyns or nurse midwives. Thus, I could not understand how I could be of use there as a male Ob/Gyn. Under the direction of Fishhook, I ventured out in faith to India and was overwhelmed with the avenues that were opened for ministry. I worked with women who were involved in saving babies from infanticide; did village medical clinics; taught physicians and nurses on medical and social topics; initiated the plans to bring a mobile Pap test clinic to the area; and spoke to many about my faith journey.
I will be returning to the wonderful people of India again in 2010 to further this work and to help enable the nationals who do such benevolent work there every day. My thanks to Fishhook International for introducing me to the country of India and affording me this opportunity to serve God there.
Habitat for Humanity
By Tom Little
A young boy who can play in his own backyard instead of going to the playground, where he's often afraid of the older children.
A family sleeping in a warm home for the first time in years.
A boy who treasures a room with a door that he can close, keeping his little sister out of his "stuff."
A family enjoying dinner together, without seeing rats or roaches.
A child able to have a pet for the first time.
These are some of the images that come to me as a result of my experience with Lexington Habitat for Humanity. It's partly about building houses, but it's mostly about changing lives.
For more than 15 years I have been honored to be associated with Habitat. During that time I've met so many caring and talented people that I can't begin to count them. They come in all sizes, ages, races, religions, and skill levels. I've met families who have overcome obstacles I couldn't even imagine - simply to keep their families together while striving to improve their lives.
It is almost overwhelming to see the impact a decent, affordable house has on a family and a neighborhood. At the same time, it is challenging to realize that there are thousands more families in the community living in substandard housing - needing and deserving a hand-up.
Every time I attend a Habitat home dedication, I am touched by the love and commitment given by sponsors, volunteers, and Habitat staff to turn a family's dream into reality. I am touched by the obvious genuine gratitude of the new homeowners. I sense how that family will turn the house into a real "home." I feel blessed to be associated with these extraordinary people.
I look forward to meeting more.
ITN Bluegrass
By Frances Bloom
As a 91-year-old rider of ITN Bluegrass - and a very satisfied one - I was asked if I would be willing to write a short essay about ITN. My immediate response was that I had no time or inclination to write even a short paragraph. I was near the end of a project I had undertaken over a year ago - writing the story about my life. What I thought would be a "short story" had expanded to about 160 pages of pictures and reflections about my parents, grandparents, children and grandchildren. I was now at the final editing stage and not willing to think about writing even a short paragraph.
I then realized that nowhere in my story had I mentioned that I was no longer driving. Merging had become a problem. My solution was to drive only where traffic was controlled by traffic lights. Driving was no longer relaxing and easy. And then I started to think "what if?" "What if I was responsible for another driver or pedestrian being hurt?" I stopped driving even before my doctor told me that I probably shouldn't be driving. It was a difficult decision for me. It meant giving up my independence. I tried Wheels - a service sponsored by the Red Cross and occasional taxis, but mostly depended on one of my daughters. And then ITNBluegrass arrived in Lexington. I promptly signed up.
Do I still wish I could just hop in my car to meet friends or shop? Of course! But I head for the phone instead and call ITNBluegrass. Their service has been great. The drivers - who are mostly volunteers - are all courteous, helpful, prompt and also interesting to meet and talk to. I also decided that my decision to stop driving should be included in the story of my life and am glad that ITN is available in Lexington.
Kentucky Refugee Ministries
By Mary K. Leffel
I have been meeting with a single parent refugee family with three children; the family has lived in a refugee camp in a neighboring country longer than two of the children have been alive.
They were forced out of their country by a government that was "purifying" the ethnicity of the population by getting rid of those who didn't fit the profile.
Now this family has moved to America, knowing very little English, and to a culture that is very different from their own.
Watching them navigate a completely new and (to them) incomprehensible culture, with little English and few literacy skills, gives me great appreciation for the bravery, strength and courage it takes to make a move so far away from all that is familiar.
Many refugees come out of traumatic situations that we can only begin to imagine;
and then they come here and need to
learn a bewildering number of new skills including navigating public transportation, learning English, acquiring job skills, and finding jobs in a difficult economy that will allow them to become independent.
The children need to adjust to a school system that at times can be alien and frightening.
It's a bewildering and stress-filled time for these folks who are often coming out of chaotic and life-threatening situations.
KRM is the organization that bridges the gap for these refugees by furnishing and settling them in apartments, and getting them connected to the resources they need.
They can only do this, with their small staff, through volunteer donations of time, money and resources such as furniture and household items.
Being involved in this organization gives me a broader view of the world beyond what's in my back yard, along with a greater appreciation for how privileged most of us are in America.
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team in Training
By Andrea Wilson
Thanksgiving morning 2004, my Dad bent over to pick up his dog's food dish when he heard a "crack." That crack was his back physically breaking.
He was admitted to the hospital and shortly thereafter diagnosed with Myeloma. He spent the next year undergoing treatments that were just horrible by any cancer standard. September 2005, he made the decision to stop all treatments & entered Hospice.
He felt good long enough to enjoy one last holiday season with his family.
March 6, 2006 I was by his side when he succumbed to Myeloma.
Words cannot describe the moment when I watched him take his last breath.
For the past few years I had received the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Team in Training flyer in the mail. I have always dreamt of doing a triathlon but the fact that I could barely swim held me back.
In April of 2009, I again received the flyer and saw they were recruiting for the Tri for Sight in Lexington.
The moment I read the flyer I knew it was the year I was going to raise funds for LLS and train for my first triathlon in memory of my Dad, Fred Payne.
The summer of 2009 was a life changing experience for me.
In a short 14 weeks, I exceeded my fundraising goals and was able to swim the entire 800m freestyle in 24 minutes!
The Lexington TNT chapter has the most amazing coaches, mentors & TNT alumni.
The camaraderie of the team is just phenomenal.
Where else can you get in the best physical shape of your life for a good cause?
The 2010 summer season is right around the corner.
I plan to be a mentor for many seasons to come.
Rest in Peace Dad!
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team In Training
By Amanda Moore
To say that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team In Training (TNT) has positively impacted my life, would be an understatementÖTNT has not just impacted my life, it has become my life. In high school I would enter road races and run them alone. At every race there would be this large crowd of people dressed in purple cheering like crazy for their "Team." I told myself that I too would one day be on that Team and have fans cheering for me.
In my senior year of high school, my grandfather lost his three year fight with Leukemia. I began to give a little more thought to joining TNT, but never put those thoughts into actions. The winter of my first year in college, I finally decided to commit to TNT. My dad had just been diagnosed with LymphomaÖthe disease had finally hit close enough to home for me to actually do something about it. I found my nearest chapter, attended an information meeting, and became an official member of the Team In Training's Triathlon Team.
In the summer of 2007, I did whatever I could to raise money for TNT. I mailed letters, held bake sales, and attended roadblocks. I told everyone I knew about the mission I was onÖto help raise money to find a cure for blood cancers! That summer, and every season since, I have met amazing teammates and friends for life. It quickly became less about the cheering fans, free coaching, and tough competition, and more about making friends and raising money for a cause bigger than me. I always look forward to a new season of training with old and new teammates while raising money to erase blood cancers. Team In Training has done more than impact my lifeÖGO TEAM!
Lexington Children's Theatre
By Cheryl A. Taylor
There are exceptional organizations in Lexington that provide for people in need. What that need actually is can be as varied as the people who seek it. In the case of my family, that need takes the form of expression, contribution, and inspiration.
We have a large, blended family with six children. Our two youngest are twin boys, and from their earliest days, we knew they would follow a different path than the others. Their view of the world is quite uniqueÖ. They sense colors, sounds, events, and interactions with others in a way that is not quite standard procedure. Seeing the world through a different lens can be a beautiful view, but it is also a view that alienates children who are "different." From the beginning, they struggled to make friends, to fit in, and to engage with others. And, there was cruelty. They learned there are some mean people in the world.
Through a friend's suggestion, we discovered the Lexington Children's Theatre. For the first time, my sons were considered imaginative, creative, and wonderful. By exploring their own creativity, they were able to connect with others who also had an artist's view. As the boys tried different roles, memorized lines, created sets and costumes, and worked in teams to tell a story, I saw their confidence and faith in themselves grow exponentially. The theater serves a diverse community, and I have seen this miracle of growth repeated in many other children from all backgrounds. Every child is given a part and a place to belong. In our case, it has transformed my children from outliers to young men who have been inspired to work hard and challenge themselves to create a product of quality that families can watch and enjoy.
The experience has transformed their lives and restored their hope. Imagine what could happen if every child had that chance.
Lexington Humane Society
By Ellen Neuville
I am a volunteer at the Humane Society and this essay is actually submitted by two dogs, Damien and Drew.
This is their story, as told to me.
We didn't understand what was going on when our owners dropped us off at the Lexington Humane Society and said their tearful goodbyes. We found out that it wasn't because they didn't love us, in fact they loved us enough to admit that they could no longer take care of us, so they brought us to LHS to give us a better future.
We've discovered that a lot of people have been forced to give up their beloved pets due to the economic downturn and changing circumstances, so unfortunately the shelter is filled to capacity and beyond.
Here at the shelter we are taken care of by an amazing group of people who do an often thankless and unglamorous job because they care about the welfare of animals and want to make the world a better place for us. They see to all of our basic needs:
food, water, shelter, and veterinary care; but most of all they make sure we are loved. We're brothers and best friends so we have to stay together forever, and we're looking for an owner who is an experienced dog owner and comfortable with big, strong dogs like us.
We've been here for over a year and a half now, but the staff is committed to taking care of us for as long as it takes to find our forever home.
If you think you might have room for us in your home and hearts, come down to the shelter and meet us.
And even if you aren't able to adopt us, come out to the shelter and say hello to us and all of our friends looking for our forever homes.
We love company, especially around the holidays.
Lexington Humane Society
By Gail Branham
This fall I lost a special member of my family. Lucy was my 12 year old white boxer and she was very much a part of my family. I happened to be volunteering at the shelter the day she arrived at the Lexington Humane Society. She was a year old, skinny and scared. She kept her head down not making eye contact with anyone. She had been turned in because her owners said she "didn't listen" Her owners thought that hitting her, knocking out some teeth along the way - might help teach her...What they didn't know was that Lucy was deaf. She was born deaf but she couldn't tell anyone. I planned to foster her until we found a good home but that skinny little white boxer stole my heart that very night. This may sound like an unusual story but you may be surprised to learn that there are 5,000 more animals just like Lucy waiting at the Lexington Humane Society. They all have stories. These innocent creatures, through no fault of their own landed at the shelter for many reasons. Some were given up becasue their owners lost their homes and had no other option. Others were discarded with no thought to their future or wellbeing and many others were offspring of animals that were not spayed or neutered. No matter what the reason, each animal is welcomed into the Lexington Humane Society - They are given love, food and shelter. Over 5,000 loving animals are currently waiting for someone to open their hearts and recognize the love they have to share. Each and every day, the dedicted employess and volunteers continue to love and nurture these animals as they wait..some for more than a year, to find their new home. If you have never been to the new Lexington Humane Society, please take a tour, your heart will be filled with love as you see the unconditional love that awaits you. It will change your life. It changed mine.
The Lexington Woman's Club
By Glenda Raltiff
The primary charitable activity of the Lexington Woman's Club has been dressing needy school children in Fayette County since 1948. The first year the clothing for the students was stored in the closet of a member's home in the Chevy Chase area. Students are currently brought by school bus to a house located on Bullock Street behind the Fayette County School Board offices. The house was donated by a member of the club to be used for the purpose of storing clothing and as a place that would allow the children to come and personally select and try on the clothing. When we begin dressing children this fall, it will mark the Club Members 62nd year to assist children in selecting clothing for school and a winter coat if needed. We have given new coats and other new clothing items to over a 1000 Fayette County School Children for the last several years. also give the children clean, gently used clothing items of their choice.
The Lexington Woman's Club also Sponsors scholarships for full time non-traditional female students as funding permits and a four year scholarship when we have funding. The scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of need and must maintain a 2.5 grade point average.
In the early years the club raised funds for their charitable projects with the "Follies." When the "Follies" became a losing proposition, the club had to develop other programs to fund the cost of dressing children and funding their scholarships. The new fund raiser was titled "Bids for Kids". The first Bids for Kids was held in the parking lot of Rector Hayden Real Estate and was a silent auction of items donated and solicited by members of the Lexington Woman's Club. Bids for Kids has become an annual event and has changed quite a bit since the first three or four were held. For the past several years Bids for Kids has been a Luncheon with a Style Show. However, Bids for Kids is more than just a luncheon and fashion show. We have a silent auction, a live auction; bake sale, condo raffle, cash raffle, and grab bags. We also sell space to vendors, program ads and keys to unlock a box with a piece of jewelry.
The Lexington Woman's Club also raises funds with a solicitation letter that is sent to individuals in the community who support our efforts to purchase clothing for children in need. The letter requests a $50.00 donation to Clothe A Child. All members of the club must also contribute at least one Clothe A Child.
All of our funds stay in the community to assist members in our community.
Poezia
By Drew Logan
Life has emotional content with variable intensity associated with emotions. Conveying the experience of these emotions to another is an art or skill and at the most sophisticated level of development is called poetry. There is probably nothing harder to write than poetry. Writing good poetry is of course even harder to do. Getting paid for writing poetry rarely if ever happens. It is more likely to occur if the poetry is exceptional. If you are a white middle class American male then experiencing and expressing your emotions is the hardest thing to do. You are not supposed to have any emotional content in your life and if you do you are not supposed to talk about it.
I will never forget the first time I met another poet. There was some awe and trepidation. Somebody in addition to me wrote poetry and was probably better at writing poetry than I was. It took me awhile to learn that it is the poem that matters most and not the poet. The poem is the art and the poet is the artist. I had to be in a group of poets to realize this. On thursday nights at 7, I am at Common Ground Cafe to share my poems with other poets who generously do the same for me. We each comment on the poem and not the poet. Although, I sometimes want to make an exception. Most of the poets are men.
My poetry has improved and I have improved. I am a better person for my experience every Thursday night and have standards for my art.
There is this wonderful person who runs the organization and helps us all because that is what a poet does. Katerina Stoykova-Klemer is a poet and well respected.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Bluegrass
By Becca Cordon
Helen Keller once said "There is no lovelier way to thank God for your sight than by giving a helping hand to someone in the dark."
I help bring light to those wandering in the darkness as I volunteer on the first Saturday of each month at the Ronald McDonald House Family Room. The Family Room provides an area of respite and relaxation for families of children being cared for in the critical care units at the University of Kentucky Hospital. I am lucky enough to hear the stories of the families, help them carry their burdens, and provide them with just a little hope to get through their day. Whether it is making them laugh, letting them cry, or simply making a new pot of coffee, I help shed a glimmer of light on what is otherwise a dark and dreary day. The people that find relief in the Family Room have heavy hearts; their loved one is in critical condition. They haven't slept well, they have most likely been disconnected to the outside world, and all they can do is pray, cry, and worry. I am privileged to come in contact with these family members, and I take it upon myself to offer them hope.
Even if it is just a little bit. And what they don't realize is that through it all I am the one who walks away changed.
As I get in my car on the first Saturday of each month, I feel blessed to be alive and healthy. I thank God for showing me the light through the darkness and allowing me to show someone else, too.
Sayre Christian Village Nursing Home
By Carolyn Helt Colliver
"A wonderful place to call home" is the quote of a former resident of Sayre Christian Village Nursing Home. This facility, a part of a non-profit campus for seniors, is a nursing home extraordinaire. My precious mother spent the last six months of her life there as a resident, as did my brother-in-law and my husband's aunt for various periods of time. I speak from a lived life experience which continues. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to volunteer here for almost 25 years. This is my home away from home.
The entire staff, regardless of position, provides a high quality of nursing care, knows each resident well and interacts with them just as they would a family member. I think of a residency here as just a change of address.
As a volunteer and daughter I have long been comforted and appreciative of the individually crafted care plans both for body and mind. The icing on the cake to be able to enjoy life to the fullest is the incredible activity program with includes opportunities which I would never imagined possible for nursing home residents.
How about having the opportunity to be bused to the state fair for a ferris wheel ride, to attend the Keeneland races twice a year, and leave the facility for regularly planned shopping and luncheon opportunities. The joy of watching senior volunteers performing Snow White, The Wizard of Oz, Super Heroes, Hee Haw and antics of the Clampett family from Beverly Hills brings beautiful smiles to faces and gales of laughter.
For a daughter who made wonderful memories in this place while fellow shipping with her mother during waning days of health, I am blessed and most grateful. Sayre Christian Village Nursing Home is a gem in this community and needs to be recognized.
SOAR
By J. Hurley
Lucky? Not so muchÖ
I drive down 421/Leestown Road from Lexington to Frankfort for work Monday through Friday every week. When the gas prices suddenly rose two years ago, a few of us started to carpool to meet with the challenge of the high gas prices. 421 is a beautiful drive and I was sort of glad I would have the opportunity to look around more on the days it wasn't my turn to drive.
One day we were heading home and it was pouring rain, literally coming down in buckets. As we drove towards Lexington I was doing my usual looking around when in a yard/field I saw a veiled image of a large dog sitting in the rain in a flooded depression in the ground tied to a tree. He was just sitting there, not moving, staring into the rain with his ears bent halfway as if to keep the rain out. He had a plastic dog house but it had a huge hole in the roof and I guess he figured it was better to sit out in the rain in a big puddle rather than in the little house with half the roof missing. I wish I would have had the opportunity to take a photo because this image was one of the saddest I have ever seen. It has stayed with me since. The plain despair this rain-covered creature conveyed unknowingly to me was profound. I thought to myself here we are - safe, dry and comfortable - why should this poor dog be so utterly miserable? It seemed ridiculous for this to happen in a country that lives at one of the highest standards in the world. This sad fellow couldn't even do what any living creature has the instinct to do in a rainstorm which is to find shelter.
The next day I was watching the news and they featured an animal rights group that was dedicated to getting animals off chains. Their name is SOAR - Speak Out And Rescue. There was a number to call in to report any chained dogs that were neglected. I was relieved and called them. They were already aware of this poor fellow; ironically his name is Lucky and he is one of the most reported dogs that SOAR receives calls and e-mails on. They have spoken with the owners and the owners are willing to relinquish him once a foster home is found.
The more I checked SOAR out the more impressive they became. SOAR does the job no one wants to do; they go to homes to speak and hopefully educate the owners about the negative effects of chaining a dog. There are other groups in many states around the country dedicated to the same cause. This is a daunting task in Kentucky, but they do it every weekend. They load up their own vehicles and go talk to people who have chained dogs, provide straw and even offer to build a fence for the chained dog. They have fundraisers and go to local events to spread the word and find homes for dogs that have been given up. I think it is rare to find a charity that purely gives, but this one does.
The United Way
By Shauna Leis
"Why do you give to the United Way?" people often ask me.
People often think that nothing bad will ever happen to them, or that they are invincible and will never need the assistance of others. Years ago, our family learned that could not be further from the truth. Our home was hit by an F4 tornado, and we were understandably devastated. United Way sponsored agencies were the first on the scene to provide comfort, shelter, food, support - whatever we needed in the hour of our greatest need. We quickly realized that we could not get through this alone and needed the support of such incredible agencies.
From that point on, I vowed that I would try to give back to an organization that had already blessed me in so many ways. The United Way is such an efficient organization to donate my time, talents, and money supporting. They diligently research agencies and the programs these agencies bring forward for support, so they know the best way to distribute anything that I can contribute. There are so many great agencies deserving support that I do not have time to do all of the research to determine which to donate money or time into. So, I trust the United Way and their community board of volunteers to do all of that work for me.
I can tell you now that I have never been disappointed in working with the United Way, and believe so much in them that I led our company's own United Way campaign for a couple years. Want to do something this holiday season that will last for a lifetime? Give to the United Way and learn to "LIVE UNITED."