Charity&ChildrenAnd now abides faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina

132/10

Davis returns to give back to Broyhill Home. (Page 3) Alumnus remains active at 104 years old. (Page 8)

11/19

Celebrating 10 years of ministry to the well and frail-aging. (See pages 6 & 7.)

You make smiles possible for a child who has never known

a Merry Christmas. Become a Christmassponsor and see your gift DOUBLED

through our Matching Gift Challenge.Thank you for giving children joy!

Listen and be inspired by thosewhose lives havebeen changed.

Listen and learn from expertssuch as Dr. Gary Chapman. Listen and hear stories of God’s faithfulness. Subscribeto BCH’s new podcast.

Free hugs!Stop by and give us a chance to say thank you.Visit our booths in the Imperial Ballroom at the Annual Meeting of the Baptist State Convention –– November 11-12.

See page 5.

Charity & Children – Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, Inc., 204 Idol St., PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338. Michael C. Blackwell, publisher; Jim Edminson, editor (wjedminson@bchfamily.org); Blake Ragsdale, managing editor (jbragsdale@ bchfamily.org); Marcia Housand, account clerk. Charity & Children (ISSN 0009-1723-09 USPS 100-460) is published 11 times a year for friends and supporters of Baptist Children’s Homes. It is printed at Triangle Web Printing, Durham, NC and mailed by Excalibur,Winston-Salem, NC. Circulation: 62,000 seven times a year, 30,000 four times a year. Periodicals postage paid at Thomasville, NC, and at additional mailing offices. For free subscription or to be removed from the mailing list or make address correction orchange, use the above address and write to Attn: Circulation Manager, send an email to address@bchfamily.org or call at 336-474-1209. Subscribe online at bchfamily.org/charityandchildren. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Charity & Children, PO Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361-0338.

Mission: sharing hope . . . changing lives

Vision: To provide the highest quality

of Christian services to children, adults

and families in a caring culture of

measurable excellence

Subscribe family and friends to C&C at www.bchfamily.org/subscribe.2 11/19 – Charity& Children – 132/10

The North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry is proof that there is nothing

more powerful than an idea whose time has come.First off, let’s get the pronunciation

of NCBAM correct. The “N” and the “C”are pronounced as separate letters. BAM is pronounced as a word –– “BAM.”Thus: “N–C–BAM.”Lots of people now shorten it to just

BAM. Some people still say all letters, N-C-B-A-M. But it’s NCBAM or BAM for short. Lots of lovely people say it all –– “The North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry.”The original idea that NC Baptist State

Convention Executive Director/Treasurer

Milton A. Hollifield, Jr.and I discussed was a non-residential ministry thatwould do whatever we determined it would do.That’s right — there was no blueprint,

no guidelines, no similar ministry, no nothing. We started from scratch. I was asked to begin this ministry

because, as Rev. Hollifield put it, “Dr.Blackwell, you are highly respected and

trusted by North CarolinaBaptists. The Baptist Chil-dren’s Homes is known forinnovative ministries andthat’s what we are lookingfor in a new ministry to senior adults.”With that charge from

Rev. Hollifield, we assembleda “blue ribbon committee” of experts in social services,elder law, finance, and min-istry. The energy level washigh and never ceased duringa year-long study.Bobby Boyd, BCH Trustee

and NC Department of So-cial Services legend, enlistedexperts from Area Agencieson Aging. The excitementwas palpable. We met at Caraway Conference Center,ate at Caraway, prayed atCaraway, and had our final

breakthroughat Caraway.I had to sell

the idea ––I loved doing that. First, to my ownBoard of Trustees, then to the Baptist

State Convention and its appropriate committees. We renovated (state-of-the-art) a dingy

building that had –– to be kind –– seen better days — much better days. The Baptist State Convention funded

the renovation and fully funds operationsfor NCBAM today. To celebrate that part-nership, we dedicated the Partners Librarywith resources, a meeting area, and officespace. The much larger Michael C. Black-well Conference Room hosts various eventsthroughout the year. Dr. Sandy Gregory has been the one-

and-only Director of NCBAM. I didn’t even interview anyone else for the job. I instinctively knew that Sandy was the perfect fit. Ten years later, I’m pleased to say that my choice has been proven right many times over. We have six full-time and eight part-

time staff members. They cover North Carolina like the “dew covers Dixie.” They are women and men of Christian faith and conviction and all have a heart for carrying out NCBAM’s mission of providing “Help for the Journey.”One thing’s for sure — you ain’t seen

nothing yet.

[ MY THOUGHTS }

You ain’t seennothing yet______________________________________________

ByMichael C. Blackwell, President/CEO

Blackwell inspires staff members as fiscal year begins On October 1, BCH president/CEO Michael C. Blackwell led state administration, program and services’ leadership, NCBAM and MillsHome staff members in a time of reflection and worship to kick of theministry’s 2019-2020 fiscal year. The gathering featured inspirationalmusic and Dr. Blackwell’s presentation where he reminded staff that the ministry stands “in His grace.” Our “help cometh from the Lord” he told the group calling all to “surrender to God” in their daily service.

Jason Davis has returned to Broyhill Home inClyde, and he is giving back. The 41-year-old alum lives nearby with his wife Shadow and

daughter Cloe. “Growing up here as a child, you can take

it for granted,” he says. “But looking back, you are able see how good it was. I was safe and myneeds, and even my wants, were met. I had every opportunity.”Davis recruited the owner for Auto Advantage

in Hendersonville and his co-workers to help himproduce a fishing tournament for the Broyhillchildren and staff. He has been with Auto Advan-tage since 2013 and serves as a sales manager.The company stocked the small lake at Broyhill

with 500 catfish and bream, provided new reelsand rods, awarded trophies for “most fish,”“biggest fish,” “smallest fish,” and provided a lunch cookout.“One girl caught, like, 32 fish,” Davis muses.

“It was an outstanding day –– just a great timefor everybody involved.”Davis came to Broyhill Home as a ten-year-old.

His father died when he was five and his motherturned to drugs as a way to escape her grief. Herdrug use became an addiction, and she began toneglect her son. Davis remembers being hungryand alone. Verbal and physical abuse were a part of his everyday life. He began a journey of being placed in one

foster home after another, eventually living withhis paternal grandmother Edna Davis. One night

at his grandmother’s home, his mom broke intothe house and began to beat his grandmother,demanding to take her son. After that incident,Davis came to live at Broyhill Home.Davis thrived, did well in school, and in

high school dreamt of attending the Air ForceAcademy. North Carolina Baptists who were at the 1995 Baptist State Convention would remember Davis sharing his dream as part of thatyear’s Baptist Children’s Homes’ (BCH) presen-tation. But instead of attending the Academy,Davis went to The Citadel in South Carolina. In 2005, in his full dress uniform, he surprisedmessengers at that year’s Convention when he appeared once again on stage.“There were so many people there,” he recalls.

“I thanked all the folks for all they had done forme and helping me get through The Citadel. Itwas a moment I’ll not forget.”Davis says he stays in touch with others who

lived at Broyhill Home at the same time he didand is quick to encourage them to make the best of opportunities. “Coming back reminds you of all the things

that were done to help you,” he says. “You see itagain in how the children are cared for today. Yousee how dedicated and loving the staff are in caring for the children. I’ve learned to appreciateall that was done for me, but it is important that

each of us makes something of that and then laterbe willing to give back.”Davis shared his testimony at the Western Area

Conference on September 5 at Broyhill Home.Prior to the beginning of the event, he joinedBCH president/ceo Michael C. Blackwell torecord two episodes of “It’s a family matter.” Newpodcast episodes are released twice per month.

Read Baptist Children’s Homes’ stories at www.bchblog.org. 311/19 – Charity& Children – 132/10

Two new podcast episodes of “It’s a family matter.” with Dr. Michael C. Blackwell featuring Jason Davis are available. You can search for "It's a family matter" or "Baptist Children's Homes" on your favorite podcast app and subscribe. Youcan also listen to previous and future episodes at www.bchblog.org/podcast. Davis came to live at Broyhill Home as

a ten-year-old boy. He grew up, attended The Citadel, and after a time in the Air Force, returned to North Carolina.

[ BROYHILL HOME ALUM }

Davis returns with a heart overflowing in gratitude_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By Jim Edminson, Editor

Jason Davis, with the help of Auto Advantage in Hender-sonville, produced a fishing tournament for the children

and staff at Broyhill Home in Clyde. Here Davis is pictured with his wife and daughter.

Scan the QR code to reachBCH’s podcast episodes of“It’s a family matter.” withDr. Michael C. Blackwell.

Are you ready to be astonished? Last year, you and I as North Carolina

Baptists touched more than 94,000 lives offering hope and refuge through the ministryof Baptist Children’s Homes (BCH). And, in the past five years, we praise God for 669 professions of faith!These numbers represent children,

family members, single moms, aging adults ––countless people who have been ministered to throughout BCH’s 23 statewide locationsand orphanage in Guatemala.You aren’t the only one who is astonished.

I rubbed my eyes several times making surethese incredible numbers weren’t simply a dream –– but we serve a God who is able to make the biggest dreams come true.God has grown BCH from a single orphan-

age in Thomasville to a network of ministriesthat reaches the tiniest baby at Good ShepherdChildren’s Home in Guatemala to the agingadult served through North Carolina BaptistAging Ministry (NCBAM).Baptist Children’s Homes is many ministries

beating with one heart –– the heartbeat ofChrist. Jesus is at the center of everything accomplished.Throughout 134 years of ministry and

growth, we’ve depended on North CarolinaBaptists –– people like you –– for prayer and financial support. During these years, you havehelped offer hope and healing to children andfamilies whose lives have been shattered byneglect, abandonment, abuse, drugs, alcohol,and family crisis. Each fall is our Annual Offering season.

It is a vital time for our ministry. During thesemonths, BCH staff members speak in hundredsof churches sharing how God, through yoursupport, is changing lives.Our scripture for this year’s offering, Jere-

miah 29:11-14, is a favorite of our children:“For I know the plans I have for you,”

declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you andnot to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and comeand pray to me, and I will listen to you. Youwill seek me and find me when you seek mewith all your heart. I will be found by you,”declares the Lord, “and will bring you backfrom captivity.”It was a dark time for many Israelites.

Exiled and living in Babylon –– far from their

homes in Jerusalem –– the prophet Jeremiahsent words reminding the exiles that God hadnot forgotten them. In fact, He had a plan that promised to put an end to their sorrows.Torn from home and hearth, temple and

kingdom, these people living in Babylonwere challenged to see a vision of the future that was far different than what they were experiencing.The boys, girls and families

we serve at BCH know what it is like to be held captive by fear and loneliness.Jeremiah’s words offer

comfort and encouragementto a child who feels her future is destined to onlyrepeat her past. But when a child comes into care,these words are hard to comprehend. For a child who

has not worn cleanclothes, eaten regularlyor slept in a warmbed, “plans to pros-per you” are for-eign. For a child whohas watched drugs robhim of his parents, or a child who has been repeat-edly mistreated and abused bythose who are supposed to love and nurture him, the words “not to harm you” don’t make sense. You can see the hopelessness in their

eyes. But like those who were in captivity in Babylon, Jeremiah’s words offer boys andgirls great hope: “Don’t give up, God’s got a plan for you! A plan filled with hope for your future.”At Baptist Children’s Homes, we offer hope

based on our belief that God has a plan for the children and families. It is a plan friendsand supporters help make a reality throughfaithful prayers and generous gifts.Today, as the BCH heartbeat grows stronger

and stronger, we continue to depend on you.We depend on you to help care for children. We depend on you to help meet needs of thefrail-aging and our residents with special needs.Every year, hundreds of lives are changed.Thank you for being an extension of God’s love to everyone we are privileged to serve.

4 11/19 – Charity& Children – 132/10 Leave a legacy through planned giving. Visit www.bchlegacy.org.

[ WORTHWHILE INVESTMENTS }

Children have plan, hope for the future_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By Brenda B. Gray, Executive Vice President, Development & Communications

Brenda Gray serves asexecutive vice president, development & commu-nications and directs all

fund/ friend-raising activities for the state-wide ministry.

Give to the matching challenge at bchfamily.org/givenow. 511/19 – Charity& Children – 132/10

This Christmas, you can make twice the difference! $50 Christmas for one child! $300 A cottage holiday outing! $1,000 A large gift for a cottage!

$100 Christmas for two siblings! $600 Christmas for a cottage! $ ___________ Any size gift!

To make a gift by check, print your information below and mail form with your check to: BCH, P.O. Box 338, Thomasville, NC 27361

Name ________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________

City ___________________________ State ______ Zip __________ Phone ____________________________________ Email ___________________________________________

Give online atwww.bchfamily.org/givenow or make your gift by phone using your credit card by calling Faith Frazier at 336-474-1312.

Yes, I would like to receive email updates from Baptist Children's Homes.

Contact me with information on how to prepare a Christian Will. I have included Baptist Children’s Homes in my estate plans.

Keith and Sammy’s mother died of an overdose. Their father abandoned the family. Devastated and heartbroken, the brothers went to live with grandparents who did theirbest –– but their income was limited and their health was failing. The grandparents made a difficult decision –– they asked BCH to give Keith and Sammy the home they couldn’t.

The boys arrived only days before Christmas. The brothers, who had already lost their parents, felt like they were saying goodbye to the last of their family. However, tears turned to smiles when grandpa and grandma were invited to join their cottage for Christmas lunch.

When Christmas arrived, Keith and Sammyrushed to the cottage door to greet theirgrandparents. Can you picture thesmiles on the boys’ faces? Their joy was possible because of you! Becom-ing a Christmas sponsor helps pro-vide hundreds of children a MerryChristmas and reminds families that God loves them.

Please become a Christmas sponsor this year. Until January 30, 2020, yourgift is matched dollar for dollar up to the challenge goal. Essentially,your impact in the life of a child is doubled!

The brothers’ story was transformed from a tale of sadness to one of joy!

It isn’t often that you’re asked to createsomething from nothing. But, that’s exactlyhow the North Carolina Baptist Aging Min-istry (NCBAM) began in 2009.Milton Hollifield Jr., executive director-trea-

surer of the Baptist State Convention of NorthCarolina, “laid it on theheart” of Baptist Children’sHomes (BCH) president/ceo Michael C. Blackwell,to create a non-residentialministry for aging adults.Hollifield called Blackwell“the trusted source” inNorth Carolina Baptist life and said if anyone could create such a new and creative ministry ––with broad-based sup-port –– it would be BCH’slong-time president. Blackwell accepted the

challenge and assembled a blue-ribbon committee of experts in all matters relating to aging adults ––legal, medical, religious,psychological and social.BCH is a leader in devel-

oping family-focused Chris-tian ministries. In additionto residential care for chil-dren, the ministry has established a Christian-focused day care, wilderness programs for boy and girls, a ministry for intellectually and developmentally disabledadults, a family care ministry for single momsand their children, college campus ministry at Western Carolina University, Greater VisionOutreach, Family Foster Care, and a children’shome in Guatemala. In further fulfillment ofBCH’s calling to serve all of God’s children,NCBAM was created.Blackwell chose Sandy Gregory, who holds

a Doctor of Ministry from Emory University,to serve as NCBAM’s director. At that time,Gregory was BCH’s south central director of development and had experience working in senior adult ministry. Blackwell added to NCBAM then BCH institutional directorfor communications Jim Edminson and stateadministration executive assistant JenniferShore to help launch the new ministry.

Blackwell connected Gregory with BobbyBoyd, then president of the BCH Board ofTrustees and a retired director of CatawbaCounty Social Services with 35 years’ experi-ence. Gregory and Boyd spent the first year in research –– traveling the state speaking tosocial service directors, older adults and pas-

tors –– asking “what can Baptists do to helpolder adults?” Gregory remembers two key lessons from Boyd that profoundly impactedthe growth of the ministry: “Relationships are key.” and “Don’t promise more than you can deliver.” With a mission statement in place –– “to

help individuals 65+ maintain their independ-ence” –– NCBAM began a three-month pilotprogram with Liberty Baptist Association.Working with Associational Missionary MikeEster, NCBAM identified resources, estab-lished partnerships with existing services, andmet individuals with needs. Gregory recalls,“The pilot program helped us determine theneeds that were out there and ways that wecould begin to address them.” With the pilot program rolling, a building

at BCH’s Mills Home in Thomasville was upfitted for NCBAM’s administration offices

and a state-of-the-art Call Center. Older adultscould call the Call Center at 877-506-2226with needs such as transportation, home-deliv-ered meals, or respite care. NCBAM Call Center specialists connected callers to existingcommunity services. But it was soon deter-mined to be inadequate. Gregory remembers,

“Giving out those numbers was easy. ButGod had another plan. NCBAM woulduse the Call Center to call on Baptists and North Carolina Baptist churches to volunteer and do ministry.” NCBAM partners with individuals,

churches and Baptist organizations tomeet the needs of the frail-aging while encouraging and empowering well-agingadults to continue God’s call on theirlives.Today, the Call Center is directed by

Melanie Beason and staffed by Call Centerspecialists: Shirley Carlson, Sharon Chas-tain, Renee Adkins, and Trina Ivey. Gregory said the focus of senior adult

ministries have changed. “Senior adultministry used to be about a monthlyluncheon and special trips. Now, seniorswant more. They want to stay involved in ways that are meaningful to them andto continue to make a difference in theworld.”To better meet the needs of well-aging

adults and to impact senior adult min-istries, NCBAM placed area directors

across the state to work more closely with individuals and churches. Regional Directorsengage with local churches and senior centersto increaseawareness ofthe needs ofaging adultsand ministryopportuni-ties availableto churchesin meetingthose needs.Regional directors assess theneeds offrail-agingindividualsand recruitvolunteers

to help them. They are also available to speakto churches or community groups on a wide variety of issues facing aging adults.Currently, NCBAM has three full-time

regional directors: Robert Leonard, south central regional director (704-699-7519);Samantha Allred, north central regional director (336-307-1181); and Yvetta Smith,east regional director (919-452-6069). Three part-time directors coverthe western region: Debra Kuykendall, central west regionaldirector (828-496-6106); AnitaDavie, west regional director(828-450-1834); and AngieGregg, far west regional director (828-467-1371).Carol Layton, director of com-

munications and administration,and Amy Burns, administrativeassistant, round out NCBAM’steam.Known affectionately

throughout the state as “BAM!,”the ministry has stayed true to its name to dream big and toact boldly with explosive energy.The ministry is defined throughits innovative partnerships withpublic and private sector entities.Those partnerships include North Carolina’sOffice of State Fire Marshal which has led

to more than $100,000 insmoke alarms being installedin seniors’ homes, and theNational Fire Protection Association that has broughtfall-prevention education tothousands. Other vital part-nerships are those with NorthCarolina’s Area Agencies onAging and North Carolina’sDepartment of InsuranceSHIIP program.Numbers tell only part

of NCBAM’s story; but each number represents a life impacted. Since 2009,NCBAM’s Call Center has received more than 25,000

calls, served 4,000 individuals, met needs in all 100 counties, andfacilitated 33,000 vol-unteer hours. The min-istry has developed 11 Priority #1 Preventionprograms, throughNCBAM’s Rampin’ Up!event set the world’srecord for the mostwheelchair ramps builtin one day (321), dis-tributed 20,000 RedBags for medicationmanagement, trained27,000 individuals, andreceived

17 state and national awards(2010 & 2017 OutstandingCommunity Service Award –The Southeastern Associationof Area Agencies on Aging;2016 Innovative ProgramAward – North Carolina Asso-ciation on Aging). More than40 educational workshops havebeen developed and presented,free of charge, to aging adultgroups. Topics include caregiv-ing, healthy aging, and disasterpreparedness. NCBAM provides programming for senior

adult retreats such as Fort Caswell’s “Summer-fest” and Camp Caraway’s, “Fall Festival of Fellowship.” The NCBAM team developstailored breakout sessions and plans fun activi-ties supporting the retreats’ themes. NCBAM

is currently partnering with

Camp Truett in Hayesvilleto develop their first senior adult

retreat in 2020.Through its AAIM outreach

(Aging Adults Innovating Ministry),NCBAM provides leadership confer-ences for those involved in ministry toaging adults. Since 2014, a statewide

event has been held each May followed by regional events in the fall.As gratifying as it is to look back on the first

ten years, Gregory says NCBAM is focused onthe future. “Each day brings opportunities toexplore new partnerships, build new programs,and impact more lives. As a ministry workingwith churches, government groups and the private sector, we explore uncharted territoryevery day.”The ministry’s latest venture is also begin-

ning as a pilot program –– once again in part-nership with Liberty Baptist Association.Volunteers from the association’s churches arebeing trained to receive calls from older adults

experiencing loneliness.This NCBAM “HopeLine” is part of a broader“One Hope” outreachwhich offers a spiritual response to the epidemic of social isolation andloneliness. Blackwell sees the

growth of NCBAM as a divine blessing. “TheLord has provided excel-lent staff members and hasconsistently opened doors

for new programs and partnerships at just theright moment. In the next ten years, as BabyBoomers continue to retire and need helpmaintaining their independence, BCH,NCBAM and North Carolina Baptists will be ready! You ain’t seen nothing yet.”

Learn more about NCBAM by connecting on Facebook or visiting www.ncbam.org. For more information, call 877-506-2226. 11/19 – Charity & Children – 132/1011/19 – Charity & Children – 132/10

[ CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF MINISTRY }

North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry has grownto meet a myriad of frail-aging and well-aging needs______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ByCarol Layton, NCBAM Director of Communications & Administration and Jim Edminson, Editor

6 7

Left, Baptist State Convention executive director-treasurer Milton A. Hollifield, Jr and BCH president/ceo Michael C. Blackwell cut the dedication ribbon in front of the NCBAM

adminstration office in Thomasville on April 15, 2010.

Training the aging on a number of topics and helping aging adultleadership be better prepared tomeet needs is an NCBAM priority.

Wheelchair ramps built by Baptists havehelped bring mobility to thousands. NCBAM’s

Rampin’ Up! continues to bring attention to the great need.

20,000 Red Bags have been distributed to help the aging manageprescription medicines. The information in the bags also helps

emergency responders provide quick treatments.

Baptists, through NCBAM, have installedthousands of smoke alarms in seniors’

homes.

8 11/19 – Charity& Children – 132/10 Subscribe family and friends to C&C at www.bchfamily.org/subscribe.

Iwas facing a big life decision recently so I went again to talk with my friend Bill. He’sthe strong, silent type and a great listener butwhen he speaks, his voice always slices like a knife of insight through the goop clouding my thinking.Bill’s place is very comfortable; shady with

a great view of nature from where he rests –woodlands, pastures and now a large stand ofloblolly pines that one day will be harvested. I laugh with him to think that when those treesare cut, people that have been driving by themfor a generation are going to gripe and complainthat the forest was cut down in pursuit of thealmighty dollar.They won’t remember the trees were

planted 20 years earlier specifically as a cash crop to benefit the work of Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, where Billgrew up, and lived and workedmost of his career.I can hear him chuckling

and shaking his big ol’ head,rubbing the bald pate onceforested with hair. The moretime I’ve spent with Bill, the

more I realize he’s always understood people at a level much deeper than his easy-going naturetypically revealed. He’s not snowed by the self-important preening of others who gatheredaround his table, even when it looks on the surface like he takes their words at face value.I tell Bill how much I appreciate him, how

he and his wife, Louise, took us in and showed us the ropes when I started working where heworked. I was a generation younger, in a higher

“position” on the organizational chart and from another part of the country. None of thatmattered, only that we respected each other, each worked hard and we all loved our children.Bill doesn’t say much, but I know he cares.

But, I digress.I told Bill about the decision I faced. Comfort

is cool; change is hard. His expression was stonecold, waiting for me to continue. The more I told him, the more I heard myself talking itthrough, the more it became clear which direc-tion I should take.I just chuckled. He’s always like that now,

waiting for me to talk it through between us,without saying anything, knowing that eventually

I’ll make the right decision.With that out of the

way, I tell him I knowthat he and Louise are enjoying their time backtogether again after several years apart, due to circumstances beyondtheir control. I catch himup on the kids, and sensehis pride in them, as he’sproud of every kid whogrew up at Baptist Chil-dren’s Homes, also due to circumstances beyondtheir control.Bill acts as if he has

all the time in the world,and I’m reluctant to leavehim, but…life goes on. I thank Bill for his timeand wisdom, rise to myfeet, brush the fallen oak

leaves from his headstone, and close the gate toGod’s Acre behind me.Thanks again, Bill. You’re always there for me.

________________________

Norman Jameson was Charity & Childreneditor 1987-1999. He has continued to be involvedwith BCH through various writing projects, as hecontinued his career with other non-profit organi-zations. He and his wife Sue Ellen live in Winston-Salem. Their three children who lived with them on campus for several years are now adults livingin High Point, NC; Nashville, TN; and NewtownSquare, PA.

[ ALUMNI FEATURES }

Legacy of character and wisdom travels across time_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

ByNorman Jameson, Former Editor of Charity & Children

Jameson

Casey Medlin finishes his breakfast of eggs,bacon and pancakes as he discusses his walk-

ing regimen. “Being active and staying on the gois a priority,” he says. Medlin only moved to assisted living this year.He sits in a wheelchair, but stands and pushes

it back to his room where he and his son Dan,former guard for the Oakland Raiders, catch up,tidy Casey’s room, and discuss plans to attend the Friday night Thomasville High School football game. 104-year-old Medlin reads his Bible after

breakfasts every day. “I learned the value of read-ing the Bible when I was a child growing up atMills Home,” he says. “It amazes me how muchmore I understand it the older I become.”

At the 2019 MillsHome Homecomingon August 4, Medlinreminisced withother alumni, eventhough he has out-lived the residents he knew growingup. When he livedon campus in the1920s, more than500 children were in care. Those he remembers, thosewho came after him, and those who live at MillsHome remain his brothers and sisters. At 104, he is the oldest Baptist Children’s Homes alum.The lifelong Thomasville citizen served in

the Navy, had a long career at the hosiery plant, andcoached little league baseball.He also ran the clock for theThomasville Bulldog footballgames for 57 years. On October 19, Medlin

was inducted into the David-son County Sports Hall ofFame as the “Unsung Hero”recipient. A plaque hangs on the wall of his room along with others and treasured family photos.

The soft-spoken man says there really is “no secret” to growing old. But with a chuckle,he confesses, “I do avoid junk foods.”

Mills Home alumnus remains active at 104 years old_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By Jim Edminson, Editor

Louise and Bill Sisk were orphans who met at Thomasville Orphanage (Mills Home in Thomasville). They were nurtured beneath the boughs of the oaks on Paradise Hill,

later married and spent their life together dedicated in service to children.

Casey Medlin

In mid September, I received a callfrom Ethel Ball Woodall aboutthe September 14 death of her sisterLori Gale Ball Burns. Gale lived inOakland Park, FL at the time of her death. Her husband Wayne andson Robert still reside there. Otherfamily members surviving Gale areher sister Ethel Woodall and brotherRay Ball. The four Ball youngsterscame to Mills Home (MH) in 1939. Gale was the youngest of thefour, graduating in 1953. She was avery pretty, intelligent and talentedyoungster –– eager to grasp all opportunities that were available to her. Her photo was often used to help brighten posters or articlesin Charity & Children. She was a very good basketball player buther greatest talent was when shesang solos during the Sunday wor-ship services –– she was adulated by many of the younger girls. Hermemorial service was held Septem-ber 22 at First Christian Church of Wilton Manors, FL. Friends cansend condolences to Ethel at 2017Beattie Rd., Albany, GA 31721 andto Ray at 14824 S. 9th St, Phoenix,AZ 85048.Clotene “Pete” Alford of Sander-

son, FL passed away on Saturday,July 6 at her residence following a long illness. She was born in Bre-vard, NC and lived in Sanderson for29 years. Clotene held several jobsduring the years, but her favoritejob was as a licensed nurse with theV.A. Medical Center in Lake Cityfor more than four years. She was a member of the Dinkins New Con-gregational Methodist Church ofSanderson. She loved helping babiesand older people, sewing and beingwith her grandchildren. She waspreceded in death by her son MarkTatum; sisters Swannie Gregg andGertrude Case; and brother SamPrice. Clotene is survived by herhusband Wayne Alford of Sander-son; daughter Bebe and sons Ricky,Robert, David, and Jessie; step-sonsTimothy and Zary; sister PatriciaFrankum; and many grandchildrenand great-grandchildren. Her fu-neral and burial were held on July11

with interment in the Cedar CreekCemetery in Sanderson.Keith Yow called a couple of

weeks ago with the news thatMary’s placement with hospiceturned out to be a bit prematureand she has been moved to a full-time care nursing home. Friends can send cards to Mary at the PineyGrove Nursing and Rehab Center,728 Piney Grove Rd., Kernersville27284. Keith feels “lost” withouthis partner of 51 years nearby. I’msure he would appreciate cards fromfriends also. The home address is215 High Knoll Dr., Walkertown,NC 27061.The update sheet of Gale Powell

states she came to MH in 1967 withsiblings Margaret, Mary (deceased),Ellis, and Butch (Gomer - deceased).Gale expressed interest in learningmore about her MH roommate JeanNorton whom she loves. Jean was agreat friend and special confidantefor her. Gale graduated in 1971 andwent on to enter the medical profes-sion as a nurse. At MH, she enjoyedhaving the duty of being a tutor and“office girl.” She was especially fondof houseparents Sadie and OdellRankin. Gale also mentioned Fredand Annie Sain as favorite workers.She recalls that on one beach tripAnnie said, “I can almost see Jesuswalking toward me on the water.”She recalls when she was late return-ing from a date, Mr. Rankin onlygave her a warning and no punish-ment. But he also told her, “Wedon’t always believe those flat tirestories.”Gale expressed a special feeling

for her case worker Evelyn Roachwho she says “saw me through someof the hardest times of my life.”One final most interesting thingGale wrote about is that through a DNA test she now knows who her biological father is and that shehas a sister she never knew anythingabout. She is proud to have her ownname and another sister that she willbe meeting during October. Carolyn McCarson Tharrington

kindly notified me of the death ofclassmate Glenn Randolph. A servicecelebrating Glenn’s life was held on

October 9 at Woodlawn BaptistChurch located at 4622 NationsCrossing Rd. in Charlotte. Glennentered MH in 1947 with his twinbrother Lynn (now deceased). Theyset many hearts aflutter down inthose junior high grades. They weregreat friends who always kept incontact with their MH friends ––even though they both left in 1953,three years before their class gradu-ated. Condolences may be sent toGlenn’s wife Lois at 5234 FurmanPlace, Charlotte, NC 28210.Carolyn was kind to send an

update sheet this year. She came to MH in 1943 with siblings Ruth,Betty and Don all now deceased. Allfour of them were active and out-standing in almost every aspect oflife on campus. Carolyn’s time oncampus was spent singing in thechurch choir and girls’ sextet, play-ing basketball, and playing theFrench horn in band. Campus du-ties included several years of beingone of the bigger girls in a cottageof younger ones –– which usuallymeant helping a lot with cleaninghouse and working in the kitchen.She especially loved the churchwork because of the great love ofmusic instilled in her by LucilleReed. Carolyn returns for Home-coming almost every year and thor-oughly enjoys visiting with herclassmates and others friends. Carolyn has demonstrated her

love for MH through her support ofall BCH ministries. She is extremelyproud of the fact that grandsonJohn has demonstrated that samelove through his work in a specialhigh school project. He chose a project involving BCH because of his “Nana.” The Pillow Project is a practical way to meet a specialneed and has raised funds to pur-chase pillows for all BCH homes.His siblings followed right behindhim carrying on the project. Hebegan with $300 for pillows forMH and Kennedy Home. But mostrecently, he and his siblings raised$4000 to provide pillows for allBCH facilities and meet the pillowneeds of three other organizations.They raise funds mainly through

donations. We understand Carolyn’spride in the children’s five year com-mitment to The Pillow Project.According to his update sheet,

Dan Lambeth came to MH in 1967and left in 1967. Despite such a short time, he has a deep love forMiss Estelle Crouch and MH. Heshowed appreciation for Estelle beginning a scholarship at DavidsonCounty Community College in hername and the name of Lugenia Pen-nix. Estelle insisted that he improvehis grades and he did. Her interestin his learning influenced his inter-est in collecting books –– especiallyfirst editions –– and creating education displays. One display is entitled “Education is Freedom.”Despite Dan’s short time at MH,being at Homecoming gives him a tremendous feeling of ”belongingto a family.”Just a touch of history: In early

October, I received an interestingphone call from a Dan Warren ofTrinity. He wanted to donate twointeresting photos and accompany-ing information to Mitchell Museum. He is an amature historianwho collects things pertaining toTrinity College which was birthedin the town of Trinity, then latermoved to Durham where it becameDuke University. The pictures hegave, however, were of the threeMiller sisters from Trinity and thehome which they left in a uniquethree-way will to Thomasville Baptist Orphanage. Upon the death of the last sister, their housewas gifted to the Orphanage. Themoney from the subsequent salefunded the building of Miller Cot-tage. It was built on the hill abovethe old swimming pool which wasacross the road from Little Cottage.When the attic of the Miller Cot-tage burned in 1936, the buildingwas converted into two apartmentsto house Charlie and Polly Kearnsand Van and Willie Mae Richardson.

The building stood formany years thereafter.

Lib Johnson was a resident of MillsHome from 1946 to 1957. Johnsonbegan writing the Mills Home alumnicolumn in 1992.

[ MILLS HOME ALUMNI COLUMN }

Update sheets invaluable for keeping in touch ––Alumna’s grands help through “The Pillow Project”_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By Lib Smathers Johnson (336) 299-7412 libsjohnson@triad.rr.com

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/millshomealumni 911/19 – Charity& Children – 132/10

10 11/19 – Charity & Children – 132/10 Learn how BCH helps children and families at www.bchfamily.org/help

Can we help? Many ministries beating with one heart.

Making News Every Day Around the State

Intellectual & Developmental DisabilitiesChurch provides day of funMembers of Galatia Baptist Church in Seaboardspent their Saturday with adult residents from ourintellectual and developmental disabilities homes.Learn more at www.bchfamily.org/idd

Ride to Clyde charity rideBiker church kicks off 2020 rideFreedom Biker Church in Monroe kicked off Ride toClyde 2020 raising $7,660 by giving away a motor-cycle donated by church member Debbie Van Scyoc.Register for the ride at www.ridetoclyde.com.

Community supportYouth make generous donationMills Home received a $1,000 donation from the Archdale-Trinity chapter of Reddy Foxx Family.These young men serve as a reminder that there are youth determined to make lives better.

Camp Duncan in AberdeenFriends flock to Founders DayGuests came out on September 24 to spend timewith the girls and tour the campsites they helpedbuild during Founders Day. The annual event cele-brates the girls’ accomplishments .

Mills Home in ThomasvilleSenator Burgin makes a visit On October 4, staff hosted Senator Jim Burgin representing the 12th district. He toured BCH’s different ministries and visited with cottage parentsDale and Danae Mizner.

Intellectual & Developmental DisabilitiesBrothers always wear smilesBen and R.L., brothers who live at Three Forks Home in Zionville, enjoy life wherever they go. They recently visited Burger King where they happily wore their Burger King crowns.

Odum Home in PembrokeChurch presents gift cardsEven though Food Roundup is in the Spring, friends,like ladies from Riegelwood Baptist, know how important it is for children have plenty to eat. Theypresented $1,400 in gift cards at Odum Home.

Weekday Education in ThomasvilleAfter school offers enrichmentKindergartners and first graders attending WeekdayEducation’s after-school program work on a S.T.E.M.(science, technology, engineering, and math) project.Enrichment is a vital part of the center’s program.

Churches Make a DifferenceChildren contribute to offeringPastor Cliff McKnight stands with the children ofOak Grove Baptist in Lake Toxaway who collectedmoney in jars to help BCH’s boys and girls. In all,the church collected $2,000!

1. Western Area Family Services Linda Morgan, Lead Dir., 828-627-9254

2. Central Area Family Services Regina Keener, Dir., 336-474-1200

3. Eastern Area Family Services Christopher Allabaugh, Dir., 252-522-0811 www.kennedyhome.org

4. Odum Home Kathy Locklear, Res. Mgr., 910-521-3433www.odumhome.org

5. Oak Ranch/Family CareLynn Garner, Dir., 336-474-1240

6. Cameron Boys Camp Drew Scott, Dir. , 910-245-4034 www.cameronboyscamp.org

7. Camp Duncan for Girls Brad Gearhart, Dir., 910-944-3077 www.campduncanNC.org

8. Weekday EducationBrooke Child, Dir., 336-474-1201

9. Tucker Greater Vision MinistrySara Becker, Mgr., 336-687.6384

10. Family Foster CareBob McCleary, 828-627-9254www.bchfostercare.org

11. HOMEBASE at W. Carolina UniversityJim Dean, Dir., 828-293-4660

12. Intellectual & Developmental DisabilitiesTara Sessoms, Dir., 336-474-1259www.hereismyhome.org

13. NC Baptist Aging MinistrySandy Gregory, Dir., 336-474-1221www.ncbam.org

14. Good Shepherd Children’s Homein GuatemalaKeith Henry, 336-474-1215

Back on the farm by the oldpond was always a great place

to camp out or have KennedyHome (KH) parties –– The SkeeterHut. There was no electricity, nomodern conveniences, and no beds.We slept on the floor. But whatgreat memories! Even my Beckywould go there. Her favorite timewas October when she dressed upand hid in the “hut” to scare theyoungins when they came for theannual Halloween party. My youngins would go with me

to hang moss, inside and out, tomake it even more spooky. We gath-ered wood and built a big fire andprepared a large black cauldron ofapple cider. The children didn’t know who

the scary witch was. One Halloweennight, Becky jumped out at one ofthe older boys and he hit her in theeye –– she had a black eye for days.The boy was so embarrassed whenhe learned that he had hit MissBecky!Thanksgiving month was always

memorable. Cottages decoratedtheir front yards with pumpkins,baskets of apples, and beautiful col-ored leaves. To me, it was lonelywhen the children left to go homeor to visit KH friends for Thanksgiv-ing weekend. We didn’t even havechurch because all were gone.During October and November,

the different choirs worked extrahard to be ready for the Christmascantata in December. At that time, I had five choirs to prepare with the assistance of Becky at the organ,Mrs. Doris Russ at the piano, and a piano student playing with them.In those day, we had a piano inevery cottage so all the 62 pianostudents could practice –– I’m surethe houseparents loved that. October, November and Decem-

ber were always very memorablemonths for the children. I will always have a place in my heart forthose times when Becky, Johnny,Scott, and I were a part of KH from1972-1977. We tilt our hats to Brian Baltzell

who has served so well as KH direc-tor. His role is changing. He will beworking full-time with BCH’s Fam-ily Foster Care Program. On behalf of the KH Alumni,

I send a great big “Thank you!” forall that he accomplished. He hasserved well. He is a humble leaderand would be the first to say that hecouldn’t have done it without thehelp of all the staff members ––from the maintenance staff, tohouseparents, to office personnel,and the support of KH Alumni. We have had some of the best

Homecomings during his leader-ship. He was always available toAlumni officers and helped planHomecoming events. The campuswas beautiful for us. He made surewe had plenty of good food to eatas well. He also made sure the beach cot-

tage was ready for our annual beachretreats. He led through sometough times when hurricanes hit the coast and caused lots of floodingon campus. Through his leadership,volunteers came, alumni came,workers came and helped KH staffmembers as they worked to bringthe campus and cottages back tobeing beautiful again. Mr. Baltzell was a director who

loved all the children, alumni andhis staff members. And, we can’t sayenough about his lovely wife Lyndawho was by his side all this time.His son Nathan was also right thereto help with anything. The Alumniand I really appreciate all that he didduring his time as director. Now, on to welcoming Chris Al-

labaugh –– the new director. Welook forward to getting to knowhim and working with him in theyears ahead –– just let us knowwhen we can help. I have had the privileged to see

other directors serve with great dis-tinction. It was a privilege to workwith Rev. Roger Williams back in the70s. He and his wife Mary led us allthrough a lot of great times. He wasa great administrator, preacher andfriend.The hardest part of writing this

column every month is waiting forfolks to send information I can use.Our readers want to hear about thetimes you had at KH as well as toread where you are today and whatyou have been doing. Please help by taking just a few

minutes to write about two pagesfor me to use –– I would feel like I had died and gone to heaven if I was to get about 200 alumni tohelp. Send your story to my e-mailaddress at jthompson117@ec.rr.com. I recently received a letter from

Captain Lawrence J. Walters, USN(Ret). He wrote to let me know thathis mother had gone to be with theLord. His letter reads: “DearFriends and Family, I am writing totell you that my mother, Lucy ParkerVaughan Walters, departed thisearthly life on August 27. Motherturned 94 on Aug. 4 and an-nounced that she had done it! Sheoutlived her sisters. Mother wasborn on August 4, 1925 in BertieCounty. She was the adopteddaughter of Nell and DavidLawrence Myers of Ahoskie. Shegraduated from Lenoir High Schoolin Kinston in 1942. She attendedChowan College in Murfreesborofor one year before entering nursingschool as an Army Nurse Cadet atNC Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, graduating as a registerednurse in 1946. World War II hadjust ended and she was not called to active duty. “Mother worked as a registered

nurse specializing in obstetrics, maternity and neonatal care at Wesley Long Community Hospitalin Greensboro for more than 30years. She was very proud of beingat the arrival of almost 2,000 newbabies during her career. Althoughher health had declined significantlyover the past few years, she remained active in the events at the assisted living facility where sheresided and taught many differenttypes of crafts –– knitting, needlework and beadwork. She was anavid reader consuming three to fourbooks per week. She loved playingbingo and completing at least onejigsaw puzzle a week. She even

wrote articles for her high school,college, nursing school, and churchpublication –– as recently as twomonths ago. “She was proceeded in death by

my father and her husband of 64years, Floyd Perry Walters ofGreensboro.” Mrs. Walters had written me

several times with great informationfor me to use in my column. I lovedher letters! She wrote about theteens meeting under the grapevine,about how boys and girls could walktogether –– but it had to be downthe KH main drive with the boy onone side of the center line and thegirl on the other side. She sharedabout when they attended worshipand the girls sat on one side of thesanctuary and the boys sat on theother side. I hope you all rememberher stories. What a wonderfulalumna.All KH alumni are invited to the

annual Christmas party which willbe held at King’s Restaurant in Kin-ston on Saturday, Dec. 7, at noon.Our Alumni President, Katie, saysthat we will have a private room andhave a lot of delicious food fromwhich to choose. I don’t know thecost at this time, but it will probablybe about the same as last year. Tryto come about 15 minutes. You areasked to bring a gift to swap withothers in a special drawing. It would be great if you brought

a story for me use in this columnwhen you came to the party. Hopeto see many of you there. ALWAYS REMEMBER that Becky

and I are here for you if you needus. We love each one of you. Please come by to see us at our

“new” location in Havelock –– 110Lee K. Allen Dr. You are always welcome. Several of you have already dropped by on the way tothe beach or just to come see us.

See you at King’sRestaurant. Loveya! –– jt

[ KENNEDY HOME ALUMNI COLUMN }

Son remembers 104-year-old mom after her passing ––Christmas Party on Saturday, Dec. 7, at King’s in Kinston_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By John Thompson, 110 Lee K. Allen Drive, Havelock, NC 28532 (252)671-3515 jthompson117@ec.rr.com

John Thompson served at KennedyHome from 1972-1977. Today, heenjoys a very active retirement.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/kennedyhomealumni 1111/19 – Charity& Children – 132/10

Read more HOMEWORD at www.bchblog.org or www.bchfamily.org/charityandchildren.12 11/19 – Charity & Children – 132/10

In a few days, my family will rememberthe birthday of my grandmotherBertie Terrell Lee. We’ll recollect hersmiling face beneath the white knittedcap she wore when the weather dippedinto the 40s and see in our mind’s eyethe hundreds of potted plants that oncedotted her yard. The memory of MawMaw’s delicious black skillet biscuits —the ones she left the imprint of three fingers to flatten the dough, so flaky yet only an inch tall –– will make our mouths water. The sweetness of her preserved mayhaw jelly mixed with rich, creamy butter will bring longing sighs.

My grandmother’s legacy includes great homemakingknow-how. But more impor-tantly, I remember MawMaw’s Christian faithand how she reliedheavily on herdaily conversa-tions with

her Lord and Savior. She observed strict periods each day alone in her room, head bowed and her Bible resting on herknees. As a small child, I happened uponher time and again before my motherushered me away, explaining Maw Mawwould be out directly and I must not disturb her. My mom explained aboutprayer, talking and listening to God wholoved me so much and cared about me.Mom also made sure I and my siblings

went to church, attended Sunday school,and took part in Vacation Bible Schooleach summer. She fielded all my queriesregarding the mysteries of faith in a Heavenly Father and trust in a Savior

who died for my sins. Although I came to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus“just as I am,” Ihad a godly modelin Mom pointingme to the throne of mercy. In her final

months of this life, Mom’s prayerjourney reminded me more and moreof early memoriesof Maw Maw’sprayer time. HerBible rested

on her lap — her hands folded on top.When we visited by phone in her lastweek, she moved between reminiscingabout life in her past and wonderingabout her life to come. She moved easilybetween talking with me and prayingwith Jesus.Because of the faithfulness of my

grandmother and my mother, I lived in a Christian home and learned the joy of trusting in a Savior who loves me almost beyond belief. They lived for Christ and I watched them cross into His care at the moment of their deaths. I’m not sure I ever told them how valuable it was to be trained by suchgodly women in the way I should go.The choice was always mine, to accept the love and sacrifice of Jesus for a sinnersuch as I, but their examples encouragedme along that path. “How marvelous!How wonderful!”And now, it is one of the greatest joys

of my life to pray for my children andgrands every day — Bible open, handsfolded on top, talking and listening. As I offer my “Amen,” I smile knowing withassurance that they both prayed for me.What a legacy, and what an opportunityto faithfully pass along to those I love,just as the author of Proverbs adjures usto do: Train a child in the way he should go,and when he is old he will not turn from it.I live that fulfillment of the Word ––

hopefully a life worth imitating, too.

Raise up children in the way they should go__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________By Jim Edminson, Editor

[ #HOMEWORD }

Edminson encourages others through theGood News of Jesus. Invite him to preachor speak at your church. Email him atwjedminson@bchfamily.org .

Baptist Children’s Homes isaccredited by the Council on

Accreditation and is recognizedas a certified CARE agency.

your gift from now until January 31, 2020!Great news! A challenge gift of $250,000 has

been issued. Your gift will be matched dollar for dollarand go twice as far to helping a child. Act now! Use theenclosed envelope or go to bchfamily.org/givenow