2020 Highlights
In the midst of a chaotic year…
your generosity provided stability for the children and families in our care. Although a lot of things in 2020 were unexpected and brought new challenges almost daily, we continued to see the Lord bring hope and healing to children and families across Alabama. From small, everyday moments to big life achievements, we wanted to share a glimpse of a few fun and exciting things that happened this year!
Dinnertime Fun In Mobile
House Parent Tiffany Smith started a fun dinner tradition at our boys campus home this spring. "Every evening I choose one of the boys to be my sous chef,” said Tiffany. “This allows one-on-one time, along with teaching them a skill to help them function in everyday life when they leave our care. I always allow the boys to help plan the weekly menu. This way they each get one of their favorite foods one night a week. One night, we had Pollo con Leche. It's a dish very close to one of our kids in care, and it always reminds him of home. You can see a boost of confidence in each boy when everyone tastes their hard work and a job well done!”
Accepting Christ in Auburn-Opelika
On Easter Sunday, Tia* asked Jesus into her heart! Her foster mother talked with her about this important decision. She had a lot of questions, including, “Does Jesus really love me that much?” and her foster mother responded, "YES!" Even though Easter Sunday looked really different this year due to COVID-19, we are so excited for Tia and the decision she made to walk with the Lord.
A Creative Day in Montgomery
One of our foster dads created a “Dad Day Camp” during quarantine earlier this year. He took their five boys on several adventures, while mom got some down time. The boys played in the rain, rode bikes, hung out with their superhero dad, and so much more! They finished their day camp with an evening bike ride with mom.
Making Memories in Oxford
This fall, the boys in our campus home went to Six Flags with their church youth group. For most of them, this was their first time not only going to Six Flags, but visiting any large amusement park. Although the trip was cut short early due to rain, they had a ton of fun and made some great memories with each other and with friends from church!
Seeing the Possibilities in Dothan
A young man in our care who never thought college would be an option for him was able to take his first college tour to Troy University this fall! Please pray for him as he considers this next, big step and makes a decision on where to attend college in the coming year
Night to Shine in Decatur
Many of the girls from our Decatur campus got to participate as volunteers earlier this year at a local Night to Shine celebration. This annual event is sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation and gives “an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older.” In 2020, over 700 churches came together to host this event in their communities. Our girls had a great time helping out!
A Bright Future in Birmingham
Formerly in our foster care ministry, one of our College Care students completed his associate's degree and is now working on getting his bachelor’s degree. He was also offered and accepted a job in ministry on staff at a local church. We are so proud of him!
*Names and photos have been changed for privacy purposes