The Orator

THE MAGAZINE OF PATRICK HENRY FAMILY SERVICES

In This Issue:

Only as Strong as Our Board of Trustees

SUMMER 2015

David Goes Home

45th Annual Awards Ceremony

T H E

About our cover: It was our own youth that took the captivating cover shot for the Fall 2014 Orator. Now she has done it again! The cover shot of this issue was taken by Beanna just before the beginning of the Awards Ceremony in May. “It was such an honor to see one of my images on the cover of last year’s Orator,” said Beanna. “I asked Sarah, my housemother, if I could again borrow her camera, as I was hoping to get another great shot… AND I DID!!!” Beanna is a rising tenth grader at Rustburg High School.

The Orator is written by the staff and children at Patrick Henry and original artwork by the children is featured from time to time. The Orator is edited and proofed entirely in-house by Patrick Henry staff. The only aspects of production done outside of Patrick Henry are the design, printing and mailing.

The generous support of donors allows Patrick Henry to mail The Orator to suppor ters as well as to others who may be unaware of Patrick Henr y Family Services.

Chief Executive Officer Robert J. Day

Photo Credits

In This Issue

Nick and Bambi Durham Kathy Guthrie Eric and Beth Shoop Arlene Layden Photography

Our Vision, Our Name, Our Logos....................3 A Message from our CEO.............................4–5 Only as Strong as Our Board of Trustees........6 Felicia’s Thoughts..............................................7 New Board Member: Brandi Chamberlin.......7

Questions or comments about The Orator?

Contact Jennifer Wall at 434-392-4073 or at jwall@patrickhenry.org Contributions: Donate online at www.patrickhenry.org, or mail to: Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes 860 Red Hill Road P.O. Box 1398 Brookneal, VA 24528-1398

Bedford Counseling Center..............................8 Hope for Tomorrow............................................9 Enriching Lives.................................................11 Straight Talk with Robert Day........................ 12 David Goes Home........................................... 13

Administration - 434-376-2006 Admissions - 434-376-6915 Fax - 434-376-3003 Web - www.patrickhenry.org

45th Annual Awards Ceremony............. 14–16 Class of 2015...................................................17 Gold Wing Road Riders.................................. 18 Cooking in the Dirt...........................................19 Chef Michael....................................................19 Donor Appreciation Luncheon...................... 20 Summer is Here.............................................. 26 Could the Charleston Massacre Have Been Avoided?.......................................27

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

A financial statement is available with the State Division of Consumer Affairs.

Contributions to Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes are tax deductible as allowed by law. Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes is a tax-exempt corporation under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3).

Hat Creek Welcome Center..............................10

The Honor and Memorial Register........ 21–25

2

Board of Trustees, Executive Committee Mr. Steve Bowery, Salem Ms. Bonnie B. Crews, Rustburg Mrs. Beverley E. Dalton, Altavista Mr. Michael F. Daly, Lynchburg Mr. J. Michael Davidson, Brookneal Mr. David J. Marshall, Forest Mr. Aubrey L. Mason, Lynchburg Mrs. Teresa L. Sanderson, Lynchburg Mr. J. Blair Smith, Appomattox Mr. Hunter R. Watson, Farmville

Jennifer Wall Editor, Orator

Our Vision • Our Name • Our Logos As you read The Orator, you will come to understand how our name, Patrick Henry Family Services, and our various ministries fit together. Our logos will help guide you as you enjoy this issue.

O.

ur vision is “to meet the needs of every child before us, resulting in the maximum impact for that child, in the shortest time possible, in the most efficient way possible, always in a loving and professional manner ” To fulfill that vision (and to help families contend with the dynamic challenges posed by our culture), we have built upon our original residential care concept with a series of other ministries, programs, and services. Each complements the other, and together, they help to create a foundation for healthy, secure families and communities.

The steady expansion of our services has led us to change our name to Patrick Henry Family Services, reflecting the more comprehensive range of efforts in which we are now engaged. And with the help of generous and faithful donors*, we envision a time when our list of services may expand even further, enabling us to meet other growing needs facing children and families throughout the state of Virginia.

M Tomorrow

ore than 50 years ago, the ministry of Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes began as Patrick Henry for Plantation in a single brick cottage near Brookneal on the historic grounds of Patrick Henry’s Red HopeBoys Hill Plantation. In the following decades, the ministry has grown to comprise group homes for both boys and girls in five locations throughout the region. Together, our homes can accommodate more than 50 children ages 6 to 18. Each home is under the care of Christian houseparents, who model a loving family environment and encourage the children through all aspects of life and learning. We serve children who are victims of the many social ills of our time, whose parents are either unwilling or unable to raise them…kids who are going nowhere…or who have nowhere to go. Their parents or guardians place them with us in hope that someday their domestic situation may be stabilized. Ultimately, our goal is for the family to be reunited, or if that is not in the best interests of the child, for him/her to be fully prepared for independent living as a young adult.

Counseling

A MINISTRY OF

Patrick Henry Family Services

Hope for

Tomorrow

Counseling

A MINISTRY OF

Patrick Henry Family Services

A MINISTRY OF

Patrick Henry Family Services

Hope for

Tomorrow

ounseling

A MINISTRY OF

Patrick Henry Family Services

AA M MIINNIISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Family Family Services Services

A MINISTRY OF

Patrick Henry Family Services

F

AA M MIINNIISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Family Family Services Services

AA MMI INNI ISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Family Family Services Services

amily counseling has long been a component of our services at Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes. Over the years, we have realized that many of the situations that led children to our care might have been avoided through counseling. That is why we began Hope for Tomorrow. Our Hope for Tomorrow Counseling centers, presently located in Lynchburg, South Boston, and Farmville are ready to provide discreet, uplifting assistance close to home. Whether ministering to individuals, couples, or entire families, our goal is the same: to bring peace and stability to lives in turmoil. Our licensed professional counselors seek to resolve conflict, mend relationships and restore families from a Christian perspective. In keeping with the ministerial aims of our organization, no one in need of our services is ever turned away due to inability to pay.

AA M MIINNIISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Family Family Services Services

T

AA MMI INNI ISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Family Family Services Services

here are many families who may need some help in the upbringing of their children, but who may not be at the point of placing them in one of our group homes. To provide assistance to those families on a short-term basis, we created our Outreach ministry, the centerpiece of which is Hat Creek Camps and Conferences. Hat Creek is a 345-acre facility outside Brookneal that will provide children throughout Virginia (including those from disadvantaged homes) with Christian summer camp opportunities. In this scenic environment, children can experience the excitement and achievement associated with outdoor activities, while benefiting from the example of Christian mentors. Hat Creek also includes a lodge-style facility that can host a variety of events ranging from retreats to conferences to reunions.

AA MMI INNI ISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Family Family Services Services *We accept

no government grants, nor any other funding that might compromise the Christian aims of our mission.

3

A Message From Our CEO

Robert Day F

allen cultures produce broken families and weak communities which in turn harvest vulnerable children. Vulnerable children are easily overcome by the evils of humanity and become abused, neglected, abandoned, addicted, and maladjusted. For the past several decades, our one country has become ever more divided into two nations. Sociologist James Q. Wilson best describes these two nations in Human Remedies for Social Disorders:

“

In one nation, a child, raised by two parents, acquires an education, a job, a spouse, and a home kept separate from crime and disorder by distance, fences, or guards. In the other nation, a child is raised by an unwed girl, lives in a neighborhood filled with many sexual men but few committed fathers, and finds gang life to be necessary for self-protection and valuable for self-advancement. In the first nation, children look to the future and believe they control what place they will occupy in it; in the second, they live for the moment and think

4

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

Photos of Appalachia taken by Robert Day in the course of his work with Mountain Outreach.

”

that fate, not plans, will shape their lives. In both nations, harms occur, but in the second they proliferate-- child abuse and drug abuse, gang violence and personal criminality, economic dependency and continued illegitimacy.

I grew up in the second nation; not in the inner cities now associated with the second nation but in poverty stricken Appalachia. I didn’t have to deal with the scourge of gangs but every other description above applied to me, my family and almost everyone else I knew.

For the longest time the second nation (rural and urban), has been the main breeding ground for vulnerable, distressed, and traumatized children.

It’s been the second nation that has performed the lion’s share of harm to children. And those children grow up only to continue the destructive cycle. The surprising thing is that the first nation is quickly catching up to the second. We are witnessing today, the unprecedented undoing of the first nation.

The first nation is now experiencing the same ratio of broken families as the second, but up to more recent times their prosperity has largely shielded them from the same consequences. What is now overwhelming the advantages of their prosperity is the caustic influence of our fallen culture. In fact, their privileged circumstances may be speeding it along because their prosperity provides more access to the poisonous pop culture.

There is an old saying in the African American community, “When white folks catch a cold, black folks get pneumonia.” That is typically used in reference to the economy. When there is an economic downturn it might cause hardships for whites but will be devastating to a majority of blacks already mired in poverty.

I think it also appropriately describes what happens when the culture turns toxic. When the wealthy and middle class get sick, it’s the poor who die from the virus. Things like divorce, out-of-wedlock births, drug use, and delinquency have fewer negative consequences on the rich than it does the poor.

The poor don’t have the hedge of protection that money, influence, and power affords for those with resources. A wealthy single mom will naturally be faced with some challenges to be sure, but a poor single mom living in a blighted neighborhood (or hollow) with few resources will have battles that she most likely will not be able to overcome.

Children of affluence are generally presumed to be at low risk. However, recent studies have suggested problems in several domains—notably, substance use, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. In fact, studies have shown that Middle and Upper class youth actually have higher rates of drug use than their poorer counterparts.

The bottom line is that our whole society is in trouble.

The tidal wave of hedonism now washing over this country is destroying the basic foundations of our culture and it is destroying families and doing great harm to children.

Something has to happen to turn this around for all of our sakes. But our hope will not be found in some kind of big, dramatic solution and we cannot wait for someone else to fix it. There is no grand plan - nor noble leader that can or will save us from ourselves.

one decision at a time. It has to be done retail, not wholesale; person by person, family by family, community by community. More tax money for more government programs is not the answer. Congress cannot pass a law, no matter how comprehensive, that will repair it. While leadership is important, it will not matter what party is in power or the name of the person occupying the Oval Office.

“Something has to happen to turn this around for all of our sakes. But our hope will not be found in some kind of big, dramatic solution and we cannot wait for someone else to fix it. There is no grand plan - nor noble leader that can or will save us from ourselves.”- Robert Day

Governments are good at transferring money but not so good at transforming people. They can build solid bureaucracies but they can’t build strong families.

They can subsidize a family, but they have yet to find a good substitute for it.

It’s going to take a massive infusion of common sense and Christian principles into the cultural bloodstream. It’s like fighting cancer. The cure will only come by restoring cell by cell until the entire body is healthy once again. We here at Patrick Henry Family Services are committed to the long haul. We are doing the difficult task of rescuing children and restoring families, one by one, day after day, until the job is done.

Cultures change, for better or worse, out of the countless small choices of millions of people.

Every citizen matters and it matters what every citizen decides. We will only restore this culture

5

We are only as as our

J

ust like the unseen rudder manipulates the course of a ship, an organization’s often unseen Board of Trustees governs the fundamental direction of an institution. An engaged and strong Board provides strength and stability which in turn gives the institution’s officers the ability to navigate the organization’s mission and vision to optimal levels.

“An organization is only as strong as its Board of Directors,” said Chief Executive Officer Robert Day. “Patrick Henry Family Services has a great Board of Trustees as witnessed in their involvement, commitment and passion to serve our youth and families.”

The Board of Trustees meets quarterly, while the Executive Committee meets an additional three times. There are also numerous committee assignments and obligations.

“I have served on the Patrick Henry Board of Trustees for nearly 25 years,” said Board Member Hunter Watson. “The Board is extremely conscientious about the traditions of Patrick Henry and total care of the children we serve. We also have a keen commitment to the organization’s healthy future growth.”

6

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

s ’ a i c i l Fe s t h g u o Th A

t Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes I have learned a great deal. One positive, but difficult thing I have learned is to be open to other people’s perspective about me. We have peer led Cottage Meetings almost every week so that we know areas where we need to work. Some of my goals have been respecting people’s boundaries which I think I’m getting better at, as well as learning to be by myself. I really don’t like having to be alone, I never have, but through conscientious efforts I have gotten used to it. Those have been my goals since coming to PH. I feel really close to a couple of the girls in my cottage.

I’ve been roommates with Katlyn since she came a week after me in February. I’ve grown a strong relationship with her and have told her almost everything about me. She’s told me a pretty good amount about herself too. We have our arguments here and there but she’s one of the best friends that I’ve had in a long time. She stands up for me

Felicia (l) and Shiloh (r)

when people say rude things about me which makes me feel like she cares.

The other day my housemother, Mrs. Cruz and I went to the mall where we saw some friends. I said “Mom, look the Klines are over there” then I realized that I called Mrs. Cruz mom. I was so embarrassed but it was kind of funny.

Later when Shiloh, Mrs. Cruz and I were talking I said “Where is dad?”. I enjoy the Cruz’s, they really treat me / us in a very caring way. There is always a laugh with Mr. Cruz as he is a jokester.

I think we are a great cottage! We like to go places like out to eat and Fun Quest. We argue a lot because we are girls, but we are learning that doesn’t give us the right to do so.

As a cottage we’re trying to do better in working issues out but it is going to take a while and even then it won’t be perfect because we are humans. I really like it here and I hope I can learn more.

PHFS Welcomes New Board of Trustee Member Brandi Chamberlin

B

randi Chamberlin comes to PHFS with a deep well of counseling experience. She attended Baylor University and completed her undergraduate education at Liberty University where she graduated cum laude with a BS in Psychology. She later earned her Master’s of Arts in Counseling from Cincinnati Bible Seminary. Currently, she is in the process of writing her dissertation as she pursues a PhD in Professional Counseling from Liberty University.

Brandi is passionate about youth and mission work. Twice she

has traveled with the Center for Counseling and Family studies in conjunction with World Help to Rwanda, ministering to the nation that is still reeling from the genocide of 1994. In addition, she worked in a drug and alcohol treatment center working with adolescents struggling with addictions along with their families.

Brandi, her husband Steve, and their four girls are active members of Thomas Road Baptist Church.

They live in Lynchburg.

7

BEDFORD COUNSELING CENTER HOPE FOR TOMORROW CUTS RIBBON AT:

O

n March 31, Dennis Gowin, Chief Program Officer for Patrick Henry Family Services (PHFS) and Director of Hope for Tomorrow Counseling (HFT) along with Janie Mantooth, former owner of Complete Counseling Services, Inc. and now counselor with HFT cut the ribbon for the official opening of the newest HFT counseling center located at 155 West Main Street in historic downtown Bedford. Supporters and staff of PHFS, along with staff, ambassadors and members of Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce gathered to celebrate the special event.

8

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

The well attended event was a dream come true for PHFS whose ministry Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes operates a home for boys in Bedford and has long dreamed of opening one of its counseling centers in the Bedford community. “Our counseling centers serve not only our own youth, but they have become a highly successful counseling and resourceful ministry to the communities where they are located,” said Dennis Gowin.

“We are looking forward to our service in the Bedford community.”

A ministry of PHFS, Hope for Tomorrow Counseling offers Christian-based counseling for all ages. For additional information about our HFT Counseling Centers or to schedule an appointment, please telephone (434) 575-0145, extension 518.

Hope for

Why we do what we do at

HOPE FOR TOMORROW O

ur Hope for Tomorrow (HFT) Counselors come to work each day not knowing what problems lay ahead to be worked through, but knowing that they are committed to working through whatever difficult issues they are presentedarmed with their accreditations, determination and God’s Grace.

Anxiety, depression, guilt, betrayal, hurt, and the concerns go on and on. What is it then that enables their commitment to work through stressful layers of painful issues in order for more positive outcomes?

The answer is just that, they do it for more positive outcomes.

Recently, there was the defiant teenager who was unwilling to listen or even acknowledge that anyone really cared for her or actually wanted to help. Her negative assumptions of the world around her played out in her own defiance creating an abyss of trouble. With the aid of a dedicated HFT counselor, she is now an honor-roll student; she earned

Tomorrow

Counseling

H

Tom

her driver’s license and has a good after school job; she smiles and, most importantly, she is happy to be in this world.

Then there was the young teen cowed by unrealistic and demanding parents. He came to HFT painfully withdrawn, depressed and with basically no self-esteem. Through lots of intense HFT counseling we were able to build up the self-esteem in order that he is able to handle the hurdles life puts in front of him. He now lives at Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes and is doing very well.

He is an honor-roll student; has a good job and was even offered a shift manager position. He now laughs and is grateful for a more positive life.

Lastly, we share the counseling victory of what once seemed like a World War III combatant home.

The parents were convinced that their teen had insurmountable psychological issues. There was no trust on either side and the only

Cou common denominator in the family equation was total disagreement on most issues. With HFT’s help, a realistic understanding of what is and is not normal grew into an atmosphere of trust. Once the trust was restored, the parent and teen relationship grew back into a more healthy functioning family. This teen recently graduated from high school with a 4.0 average and is college bound!

“Bottom-line, we are committed to lives lived with the best possible positive outcome,” commented Hope for Tomorrow Director Dennis Gowin. “And that is why we do what we do!”

Providing a

Hope for Tomorrow that is brighter than the reality of the past.

Our mission is to help families and individuals with the greatest need and the least ability to meet that need. Accordingly, we offer excellent services at a fraction of the typical cost for counseling.

Hope for Tomorrow is a ministry of Patrick Henry Family Services, a Christian non-profit organization that exists to provide hope and help for families and children in need.

Hope for

Tomorrow

Counseling Lynchburg Farmville 434-239-4949 434-392-4073 A MINISTRY OF

South Boston 434-575-0145

Bedford 540-586-8146

www. HopeForTomorrowCounseling.org

9

HAT CREEK CAMPS & CONFERENCES

DEDICATES ITS WELCOME CENTER T

hough the weather had been less than the best, the skies cleared just in time for Hat Creek Camps and Conferences Open House and dedication of the Welcome Center held on Sunday, April 26. Following a warm welcome

by Patrick Henry Family Services Board of Trustees President, Michael Davidson, Robert Day, PHFS CEO, stepped to the podium wearing both a cap from the former Presbytery of the Peak’s Camp Hat Creek and a jacket from today’s Hat Creek Camps and Conferences Center, a ministry of PHFS. “At Hat Creek Camp, we honor the many years of love and labor of those who went before us and at the same time have our own compelling vision that propels us toward a positive future for this wonderful place and

especially what this place can mean in the lives of children and families,” remarked Robert Day. The event brought out both young and old. There were youth who had already signed up to be a part of this summer’s camp, there were members of Presbytery of the Peak’s Hat Creek Church, contributors, local citizens, board members, etc.

“Having this donated Welcome Center is a tremendous plus for HCCC,” said HCCC Director of Auxiliary Services Michael Briggs.

“It truly serves as a welcome for all campers and conference center guests.”

For additional information about our Conference Center or Camps, please telephone (434) 376-1250 or visit us at www.HatCreekCamps.org.

Hat Creek Camps & Conferences Welcome Center In-Kind Contributors Appomattox Glass and Storefront, Inc. Boxley Materials Company Curtains, Blinds, and Bath Dominion Seven Architects D.L. Bryant, Inc. Falwell Corporation J. E. Jamerson and Sons, Inc. Johnston Enterprises, Inc. Kerr Bros. Masonry Palmer’s Crane and Weld, Inc. RLJ Thompson Trucking Timberlake Lighting Center, Inc. The Floor Show, Inc. Virginia Steel, Inc. Winnbo Electric, LLC Wooldridge Heating, Air and Electrical, Inc.

10

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

Enriching Lives W

hether it is at one of Hat Creek Camps own camps, a retreat or conference, a quilting weekend, a church revival or at the recent Child Evangelism Fellowship camp, amazing things are happening down in Brookneal, Virginia. With 325 acres of team building activities ranging from high and low ropes courses, a climbing wall and zip line, canoeing, fishing, swimming, hiking trails, fellowship spaces, both indoor and outdoor chapels, etc. Hat Creek Camps and Conferences endeavors to exemplify the great virtues of Christian hospitality through the ministries of camping and conferences in a modern context.

“Not only are we striving to be one of the top summer camps in Virginia, we are committed to providing one of Virginia’s best retreat and conference facilities in order that all our guests have remarkable adventures, as well as warm and inviting accommodations,” said Director of Auxiliary Services Michael Briggs.

As your Orator Editor walked the grounds during a recent camp, she stopped to talk with one of the youth campers who volunteered the following thoughts: “This is an incredible place, it is beautiful and fun, perfect for our camp’s mission,” said the camper named Anna.

“What is your mission?”

“Well you see not many people have time to listen to children. They may brag about them, but they really have little time to talk or listen to them,” she continued. “At Child Evangelism Fellowship camp we have a week of talking and learning more about God in preparation for spreading His word, especially among youth and children. By sharing God’s word in the right way, we may be able to change a life and that is worth doing!”

HCCC provides a place and opportunities for young Anna and her friends to work on their mission.

It is an extraordinary facility where lives are enriched in order that they may enrich others out in the world.

11

Challenging the way we think and live. Family | Culture | Leadership | Ministry

T

he Straight Talk audience is growing exponentially, and we trust you have made it part of your daily routine.

Host Robert Day, CEO of Patrick Henry Family Services, draws from a vast reservoir of knowledge and personal experience to tackle the most difficult, complex issues facing today’s youth and families. As you tune into Straight Talk you will hear answers to some of America’s deepest concerns:

• Do you want to know the Top Ten Toxic Trends Hurting American Children?

• Do you want a viable way to handle The War on Poverty?

• Do you want to understand why it is important Not to Have Too Much Stuff?

• Do you want to do something about Low Behavioral Expectations?

• Do you want answers on how to handle our cyber Culture of Fantasy?

As heard on Straight Talk:

I

hate camping. Funny thing is, I love Summer Camp. I became passionate about the value of camp when I served as a counselor the summer after high school. I fell in love with everything to do with camp - the kids, staff, food, games, silly songs, everything. And there are lots of reasons parents should be in love with camp too.

At camp kids are physically active, unplugged from technology and plugged into nature. They acquire lifelong skills, including teamwork. They learn more about their strengths and gifts and discover they can be successful at so

Robert’s own personal story and dynamic testimony are sure to touch hearts and inspire, and his unique insight both challenges and motivates.

Straight Talk’s one-minute segments can be heard Monday through Friday at 7:20AM and 4:20PM on Spirit FM. The full 30 minute radio show is aired each Sunday at 8:30am on WLNI, 105.9FM. You can also catch Straight Talk on the web at straighttalkwithrobertday.org, or on Facebook, where you will find additional resources. However you choose to tune in, don’t miss Straight Talk with Robert Day…‘challenging the way we think and live’.

SUNDAYS

8:30am–9:00am (30-minute Radio Show)

WEEKDAYS

7:20am & 4:20pm (1-Minute Broadcasts)

many different things. Camp helps kids become more confident and resilient, but maybe the best part of all is the friends they make.

Since those magical summers of my early twenties, I’ve been a part of a number of camps from Tennessee to Alaska, and I’m so very excited that Patrick Henry Family Services now offers summer camp. For more information about camp this summer, check us out at hatcreekcamp.org.

TAKE AWAY: Camp helps kids become more confident and resilient but maybe the best part of all are the friends they make.

“Nothing done for a child is ever wasted.”

-Robert Day

12

StraightTalkWithRobertDay.org

facebook.com/StraightTalkWithRobertDay

straighttalk@patrickhenry.org

David (c) with his mom and dad.

DAVID GOES HOME David’s journey with Patrick Henry began as a bleak situation with little promise of reunification with his family. Shortly after his admission to the program, David became determined to comply with the program so that he could grow and develop in character and manhood to be the person God intended for him to be. Amazingly, after nineteen months, David’s family witnessed these character changes in him and a plan was developed for David to be reunited with his Family. On May 22, 2015 David was successfully reunited with his family. - Residential Care Director Sherri Meeks

“Hello, I am David. I am here to tell my testimony of why I came to Patrick Henry and why I get to go back home.”

I

was born into a rough situation.

Surrounded by drugs, bad influences and bad people, the Department of Social Services got me and my sister out of there. I was six. We went to several foster care families but none of them worked until we came to the family that we are with now. We lived there for a year before both my sister and I were adopted. In that year my sister and I were told that there is a God that loves us and wants the best for us.

After adoption, that first year went really well. I was so happy that I actually had a dad to do things with and a real mom to talk and express my feelings to. Unhappily, soon the tide shifted.

Before coming to live with my adopted family, I had grown up not being able to trust anyone and that is what I reverted back to doing. I wouldn’t listen to my parents and I did as I wanted. I trusted only me.

After about three years, I realized that I needed to do what they said in order for my life to start getting better, but it was too late. My habits felt so strong and felt impossible to change.

My parents did everything they could even sending me to a military academy where though I did very well when I went home the same old problems and conflicts still stood.

I felt as if I was pushing a boulder up a

mountain. Right when I felt like I was getting somewhere that boulder rolled back down crushing my hope and my progress. It was hopeless. My parents didn’t know what to do. They wanted the best for me / for us all. I forgot how it happened but my Dad found out about PHFS and we went for a visit.

I didn’t want to go but there were no other options.

I didn’t think I would ever see my parents again or my family. After eight or nine months I learned that my parents wanted to visit me. I was thrilled but very nervous because I didn’t want to mess up again and I didn’t want to see them upset. The visit went very well, so well that they came again. Visit after visit came and went and they all went great.

About 1½ months later I was picked up from school and taken to Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes (PHBGH).

I felt deserted, mad and upset. I felt like I didn’t belong in a family and I was better off by myself. Even though I felt helpless and didn’t feel like trying to do anything, I seemed to do well at first. I figured I should keep doing well even though I didn’t know what I was working towards.

When my parents wanted to take me home for three days, I was thrilled but once again I was nervous but that home visit went great also. One home visit for spring break my dad asked if I wanted to come home permanently.

Even before he finished the question I said YES. I missed my family and friends back home. I was so excited and happy I couldn’t stop talking about it. I was praying to God to open doors and show me what I needed to do. In going back home I can see my future opening up again.

“Having David at PHBGH was God’s Grace,” said housemother Laura Nail.

“Yes, he arrived with confrontation and control issues, but he was willing to try.

Through counseling, camp, hands-on collaboration with our residential care team, etc., we watched him grow in these areas with which he struggled.

“Most importantly was when David grew to accept that God is a God of reconciliation and is the Great Physician. David and I often discussed that God is all about restoring healthy relationships, if you will only do it His way. I believe that David came to understand that anything can trigger confrontation if you let it, but if you patiently work through it, with God’s help, then the outcome is far better.”

I think the biggest thing that Patrick Henry has done for me and my family is providing a place for me to live so that my family and I could heal from past scars and to, also, show me how much my parents actually meant to me. Now instead of making bad memories, I am committed to making good ones, gaps are being filled, sadness turned into joy. I have gone home thanks to God who through PHBGH, gave me the opportunity to work through negative issues for a positive outcome.

Without God none of this would have ever happened.

13

T

o be a part of Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes Annual Awards Ceremony is an amazing opportunity to see God’s grace unfold. As most of our youth have had to overcome difficult challenges, our Awards Ceremony rewards their efforts with certificates of accomplishment.

This year’s ceremony was especially meaningful as the choir sang flawlessly; the guest speaker delivered her inspiring Patrick Henry personal story; and the videos of our amazing seniors brought a tear to many attending.

“It is an evening we all work for all year, both staff and youth,” said CEO Robert Day. “In our Vision to meet the needs of every child before us, resulting in the maximum impact for that child, in the shortest time possible, in the most efficient way possible, always in a loving and professional manner, this ceremony embodies our commitment to our youth and the triumphs of their efforts.”

1

DESCRIPTION OF AWARDS: The Christie Fariss Hite Memorial Ambassador Award recognizes the contribution of the resident who best represents PHBGH at churches, civic clubs, and special occasions by their testimony or talent. Crystal Hutson was this year’s recipient.

The Edgar and Rachel Bowery Music Award and the Charlean Light Carson Memorial Music Award are awards given in recognition of the boy and the girl who use their talent to the best purposes. The criteria for judging the recipients are based on overall performance, use of abilities, development of talent, and participation in areas where the music is demonstrated. Chase Collins and Tori Myers were recipients of these awards.

2

3

4

The Philippians 4:13 Outstanding Athlete Award and the Lt. Col. and Mrs. Eldon Cox Outstanding Athlete awards are given to encourage each child in the program to put forth his or her maximum effort and develop skills to the fullest in competitive sports. In addition, these awards are sponsored to develop a sense of fair play; to create a desire to excel; and to foster individual responsibility in each resident who strives to earn these awards. This year’s recipients were James Lewis (12) and Nicole Davis (2).

The Schaeffer and Overbey Outstanding Citizenship Awards are competitive achievement recognition awards that each boy and girl strives for through their accomplishments. Youth are evaluated annually and given points in 12 categories. Each boy and girl strives to excel in the 12 categories earning admiration and respect through growth in good citizenship even though only one boy and one girl can be honored. This year’s recipients were Malcolm Davis (10) and Nicole Davis.

14

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

The Dr. O. E. Howe Board Peer Leadership Award is given to the boy or girl who has best demonstrated a positive attitude and provided the best citizenship role model among the residents. This should be a young man or young woman who is looked up to by his or her peers as a positive leader striving to live a moral and productive life. The 2015 recipient was Britani Dalton.

The Shaffer Academic Leadership Award and the Jenny Hartless Memorial Academic Leadership Awards were established to encourage excellence in academic performance. They are awarded to one girl and one boy from our homes. The recipients should have maintained the highest grade point average for the first five of the sixweek grading periods. This year’s recipients were Jamie Bible and Lynn Johansen.

The Donald C. Seagroves Memorial Scholarship Award was established by Mrs. Wanda Seagroves (former houseparent) in memory of her late husband and is presented to a high school senior who is awarded a scholarship by the Scholarship Committee and who demonstrates the most initiative and financial need. Crystal Hutson (6) was the 2015 recipient of this award.

The Norman Dennis Memorial Scholarship Award was established by Mrs. Patricia L. Dennis in memory of her late husband. It is presented to a worthy recipient in the Step Forward program who needs additional assistance. This year’s recipient was Josh Fifer. ...continued on following page.

5

6

7

F

ormer PHBGH resident, Shelley Mays-Couch, M.S.W., was the evening’s guest speaker. Her inspirational message pivoted around her trust in God, her appreciation of the love given and lessons learned while living at Patrick Henry and her reliance on the invaluable attribute of determination. “When I first entered the Wylliesburg Cottage on August 24, 2004, I was angry, hurt, sad, and I blamed the world.

However, because of the love, patience and teaching of God’s Word by the staff here at Patrick Henry I was able to forgive and to grow as a person,” said Shelley Mays-Couch.

“Determination has helped me jump many hurdles in life and if you become determined to fill in the blanks to the questions you have about your life you, also, will see God work greatly in your life. If I can say anything to encourage those who have dreams and difficult decisions that they are currently facing, I will say this: PUT GOD FIRST regardless of the situation or predicament you may find yourself in. He knows we are not perfect and we all make many mistakes. Also, always remember there is no limit to what you can accomplish if you just believe in yourself and when you don’t feel that you can go on, just PUSH and PRAY until it happens.

8

9

15

AWARDS CONTINUED: The Carl Mylius Award is sponsored

by Mr. and Mrs. Ray Turner, Jr. in memory of Mr. Carl Mylius and is given to the resident who is graduating from high school and entering college in the fall of the same year that has the best academic average for the past two years of high school and has a financial need for help. Two youth were awarded this recognition this year, Britani Dalton and James Lewis.

Kenneth L. Sr. and Lucy Woodall Harris Work Ethic Awards are presented to the one boy and girl in the program who exhibit the best allaround work ethic in all endeavors, including, but not limited to cottage responsibilities, yard work, academic work, extracurricular and athletic participation, and community service.

Paid employment is also considered when applicable. Kisean Boyd and Alex Reagan received these awards.

Archer Carr Satterfield Work Ethic Awards are presented to the one boy and girl in the program who exhibit the best all-around work ethic in all endeavors, including, but not limited to cottage responsibilities, yard work, academic work, extracurricular and athletic participation, and community service. Paid employment is also considered when applicable. Justin Jenkins and Lynn Johansen received these awards.

The Sgt. Jason C. Carr Memorial Academic Improvement Award and the Jenny Hartless Memorial Academic Improvement Awards are competitive progress awards for a boy and girl who show the most improvement during the academic school year. Each resident competes with himself/herself to show sustained improvement during the year. Justin Jenkins (7) and Beanna Stokes were the award recipients.

S. Frank Pratt Most Improved Award and the Mr. and Mrs. Lewis C. Moorman Most Improved Awards are presented to the one boy and one girl who have demonstrated the greatest all-around improvement in areas including self-discipline; respect for self and others; acceptance of

16

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

10

11

boundaries and consequences; appropriate relationships with family, friends, and members of the opposite sex; academic effort and performance; athletic and musical involvement; spiritual growth; peer leadership; and an evident desire to do what is right. Donte’ Chambers and Raven Bible (3) received these awards.

Dr. Culver Miller Great Effort Awards are presented to the resident in each home who has consistently demonstrated their best effort in all that they do. A positive attitude and determined effort are the marks of residents receiving these awards.

Recipients of the Great Effort Awards may not receive an award in any other category. James Lewis, Beanna Stokes, Charlie Jenkins, Leigh-Ann Michael (8) and Elijah Matherly (9) were the year’s recipients.

The Diamond Hill Presbyterian Church Godly Man Award is given to encourage growth and Christian maturity in our male youth. It is presented to the boy that best exemplifies the biblical description of a godly man and that seeks to be a testimony and an example to others through his words and deeds. Josh Fifer was this year’s recipient.

The Dr. O.E. Howe Board Most Virtuous Woman is given to encourage growth and Christian maturity with girls in our homes. It is presented to the girl that best exemplifies the biblical description of a virtuous woman and that seeks to be a testimony and an example to others through her words and deeds. Nicole Davis was this year’s recipient.

Senior Recognition was given to each of the four Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes seniors that will be graduating this year. As our seniors press onward to the outside world that awaits them, this year was a

12

true blessing as all our Seniors have plans for higher education and /or the military. The Seniors recognized were Britani Dalton, Crystal Hutson, Josh Fifer, and James Lewis.

The Top Cottage Award is given to the cottage that has prepared the interior and exterior of their home the best for the attending guests. This year’s award went to English Cottage (1).

The Best Table Display is awarded to the cottage that has created the best table display for the Awards Ceremony. There was no disputing the tie for this award between Bedford and Stephens cottages.

Residential Care Staff Member of the Year Award was given for the first time by the Residential Care Department of PHBGH. It was created to be given to an outstanding employee who has gone over and above their call of duty. Without doubt Kathy Guthrie and Kent Burnside deserved the tie recognition as they both received this award.

President, Board of Trustees, Michael Davidson closed the evening in appreciation of CEO Robert Day’s first five years with Patrick Henry Family Services. “We are blessed to have Robert at the helm of this organization. He has not only grown our services for youth and families, but his vision and commitment to quality care of those we serve is stellar!”

ALSO PICTURED: 4 PHFS Board of Trustee member T.C. Leggett standing with two of our youth.

5 Robert Day, CEO, is photographed with the boys from Stephens Cottage.

6 PHFS Board of Trustee member Lucy Harris is photographed with the Scholarship recipients.

JAMES

CRYSTAL

JOSH

BRITANI

JAMES has been a resident of Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes since July of 2011. He has at-

tained phase three in our Character Based Program. He has a smile that lights up the room and has been a joy to work with. While a resident of Patrick Henry, he has been active in high school sports to include football, basketball, and track. He will be graduating from Liberty High School and plans to enlist in the US Military.

CRYSTAL has been a resident of Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes since March of 2013. She has at-

tained phase three in our Character Based Program. She has demonstrated exceptional determination to excel both as a resident and in the area of academics. She has worked very hard to complete both her junior and senior academic year in the 2014-2015 school year, while balancing part time employment at Five Guys in Lynchburg, VA. She has willingly shared her testimony at several Patrick Henry events and participated in the Patrick Henry Choir. She will graduate from Rustburg High school and plans to attend Central Virginia Community College to pursue a Degree in Registered Nursing.

JOSH has been a resident of Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes since June of 2005. He has attained

phase three in our Character Based Program. During his tenure, he has built great relationships with many staff and residents that are certain to be maintained as he begins the next season of his life. In addition, he is a woodsman and enjoys designing and using tools. For several years, Josh has been the recipient of the Godly Man Award for his willingness to openly share his testimony with those around him. He will be graduating from Liberty High School and plans to attend Virginia Technical Institute in AltaVista, VA to earn a Certificate in Carpentry and Welding.

BRITANI has been a resident of Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes since September 2013. She has

attained phase three in our Character Based Program. She has demonstrated great leadership qualities within the cottage and demonstrates a strong work ethic. She has a passion for caring for animals and has participated in the Patrick Henry Work-Study Program providing care for the horses. She will graduate from William Campbell Combined School and plans to attend Danville Community College to pursue a degree in Veterinarian Technology.

17

T

he riders of Lake Country Wings, Gold Wing Road Riders Association, Chapter J, South Boston, Virginia clearly love the youth of PHBGH. For over 18 years they have come to the Brookneal campus to provide information to the youth about motorcycle safety, maintenance requirements, as well as basic motorcycle skills tips.

While the information is important, the motorcycle rides are tops, as well as the cook-out and unlimited ice-cream.

In addition, as has been the tradition for years, the youth have the opportunity to vote on their favorite top three bikers. Basically, who, in their opinion is the “coolest biker!” The biker with the most votes wins a trophy presented by the youth themselves.

“It is an awesome event not only for our boys and girls, but often the families of our youth also come and participate in the fun,” said Residential Care Director Sherri Meeks. “It is a day of fun, fellowship and great food!”

The Rider Education Program of the GWRRA is intended to increase rider knowledge and safety skills; prevent accidents, which reduce injuries and fatalities; and improve the general public image of motorcyclists.

This year 42 riders participated in the event. THANK YOU GWRRA for your time and generosity!

18

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

T

he PHBGH cottages on the Brookneal campus always enjoy the opportunity to get together for meals, especially when the weather warms and outdoor cooking is involved. It was quite an experience this Spring when former Scout Master of Troop 546 in Appomattox, now Chief Operating Officer for PHFS, Stephen Edwards, challenged our youth to create delicious cobblers the Boy Scout way…. in DIRT! “When I asked our youth if they would be interested in cooking in the dirt, their eyes got really big,” said Stephen Edwards. “I then explained that with Dutch Ovens, charcoal and a garden of dirt, we had the perfect baking circumstances.”

The group made three different cobblers from scratch – apple, peach, and blueberry. All three recipes were

different, the peach recipe was one of Stephen’s own concoctions; the apple recipe was from an old Scouting book and the blueberry recipe was from a South Carolina church cookbook.

“Staff here at PH love each of these youth and want to give them as many opportunities as possible,” continued Stephen. “My years volunteering for Boy Scouts has taught me that youth love doing most things that are adventurous and interesting, therefore I just knew learning to cook in a Dutch Oven would be an experience they would never forget.”

“It was amazing,” said PH youth Leigh Ann. “At first we believed it would never work, but it did and it was delicious!”

Chef Michael

COOKING UP SOME EGGS! Successfully cracking an egg can be tricky, especially when you are just seven years old. Housedad Eric Shoop did not see that as a problem, however, because he had an eager and attentive learner, Michael. Photographed is Michael successfully cracking an egg and then having fun cooking it. Yeah Michael!!!

19

R i c h m o n d , Vi rg i n i a n June 11, Patrick Henry Family Services hosted several donors from the Richmond area at a special luncheon with CEO, Robert Day at The Grapevine Restaurant.

The gathering of contributors included friends of our ministry that have supported us for more than a half-century. In addition, it provided the perfect opportunity for sharing the vision and mission of PHFS.

O

individuals who make our programs for children and families possible,” said Director of Philanthropy Adam B. Spencer. “In her note of thanks, it was especially meaningful to read what guest Betty Sue Barnes said, ‘…What a delicious meal and good fellowship! Listening to Robert Day makes me wish I had unlimited wealth to share with PHFS!’...”

“Not only was this event fun, but as ministers would confess, you always know that you have delivered a meaningful message when your audience stays longer for engaging questions and conversation,” said Robert Day. “Not only did our guests stay, but it was most rewarding to hear their thoughts and questions.”

PHFS receives no governmental assistance; therefore, it is truly because of the long-standing generosity of our donors that we are able to make a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. For more information about philanthropic opportunities with PHFS, please telephone Adam Spencer at (434) 376-2006, extension 201.

“We praise God for the generosity and compassion of the many

20

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

Photographed from top to bottom: Mr. Vernon Barnes with Robert Day, CEO; Mrs. Essie Bryce Gordon with Robert Day, CEO; Mr. Robert J. Spiers with Adam Spencer, Director of Philanthropy; and Mrs. Betty Sue Barnes with Robert Day, CEO.

The Honor and Memorial Register

T

he following donors made honor or memorial gif ts to Patrick Henr y Family Ser vices in recognition of those who have made a difference in their lives. These gifts not only help our ministry, but they also live on as a lasting legacy to those who are honored. In fact, many people have been introduced to Patrick Henry Family Services through honor and memorial gifts.

When honor and memorial gifts are received, our office promptly notifies the honoree or the family of the deceased and provides the name and address of the donor of each gift.

IN HONOR OF:

J

B

Margueritte Jordan

Virginia Dawson Beebe

Mr. and Mrs. Louis W. Moore

Adam Spencer Jessalyn M. Burcher

Alma Elizabeth M. Love The Medicine Shoppe

Mr. and Mrs. Louis W. Moore Bobby and Lucy Conner Anonymous John Crews Laurie Ann Mergler

Aubrey and Sissy Mason Baird Foundation, Inc. Sandra Davis and Thomas Mong Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth L. Harris, Sr. Roy A. Moon Margaret A. Moon Shirley Moorman

F David and Susan Faidley Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey R. Fulgham

Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Duckworth The Woman’s Club of Lynchburg

G

S

Joan I. Grishaw

Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Shelton and Family

Erna Isaacs

Libby Smith

IN MEMORY OF:

A Robbie Arrington

M Sue M. Campbell

Mr. and Mrs. Lyle D. Shelton

L

Mr. and Mrs. Louis W. Moore

C

Sue M. Shelton

Leon T. Goin

Mr. and Mrs. Tom J. Veillette Tom Bradwell

Houseparent Gloria Cruz has a tremendous heart of love for all our youth!

Mr. and Mrs. Billy Reynolds

Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Tom Arrington Roberta H. Helms

Becky Mr. and Mrs. Billy Reynolds Janet Bennet Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Harry Bohannon Mr. and Mrs. Merle T. Adkins III Lewis T. Booker Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Leggett Margaret Booth Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Grace Bostick

B Logan Bagby Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Pittenger Frank L. Bailey Mr. and Mrs. Merle T. Adkins III Frances A. Palmer Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. William L. Wellons Doris Baugh Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr.

Dr. and Mrs. Roger W. Browne Johnathan Bowman Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Pamela K. Brown SamiDail Gilley William Bradley Brown Dr. and Mrs. Robert W. McCullough Hank Bruning Glass’s Auto Service, Inc. Mattie C. Burley Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth L. Harris, Sr.

21

Bernard H. “Buddy” Cole Donnie R. Conner Barbara Coleman Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. M.J. Boyd Colgate Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Duckworth Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Samuel Compton Faye S. Keesee

Elsie Rhae Anderson Edmunds Dr. and Mrs. Lewis W. Bridgforth Mr. and Mrs. William L. Wellons Martha W. Elliott Jeanette M. Walker Frances Evans Josephine F. Burks Jean M. Everett Mrs. Grace Marshall and Leroy E. Marshall

James Bryan Cook Jr. Essie Bryce Gordon Richard B. “Rick” Crafton Mr. and Mrs. Merle T. Adkins III

D Phil Rex Davis

When Lynchburg’s Yogurt Yeti was having a special Family and Friends Fun day with inflatables, hot dogs, etc., Patrick Neff, Owner and Director of Patrick Henry Family Services’ ministry Safe Families for Children, made sure that the youth from PHBGH came for the fun. “We are always honored and excited to have the youth and staff at the Yeti, our motto is COME BUILD A DREAM!” said Patrick. “We believe in each of these children and know that God truly has a SPECIAL DREAM for each of their lives.”

Mr. and Mrs. W. Craig Mays

Delma Trent Chumley

Hope Royer

Mr. and Mrs. Doug Kenney

Sardis United Methodist Church

Shreve & Berger

P. Norman Burton Anonymous

Karen Beverly Shelby Buffington Catherine Buffington Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Frazier

C

Ruth W. Frazier

W. T. Carr

Mr. and Mrs. Brandt Martin

William P. Guthrie

Mr. and Mrs. Alfred H. Puckett

Mr. and Mrs. Curtis E. Hamlett, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. William M. Trent

Clara Powell Carver Nancy D. Proffitt Ruth M. Carwile June B. Chenault Mr. and Mrs. Benny O. Marston

Willis Clayton Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. John William Cocke Mr. and Mrs. James J. Lewis Lula Bray Cockerill Glass’s Auto Service, Inc.

Donnie R. Conner Lucy del Cardayre Robert Gill Thomas Desmett

F Walter Lewis “Happy” Farmer Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. Hubbard Mr. and Mrs. Clarence N. Irby Erna Isaacs Dorothy B. Jennings Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Markham Mr. and Mrs. Clyde T. Mathews Iris Ferguson

Jane L. Desmett

S. Howard Ferguson, Jr.

Frances Joy Dews

Christopher Daniel Fisher

Carolyn M. Dews Rev. David Dickerson Donnie R. Conner William W. “Bill” Dickerson G. H. Jamerson, Jr. Floyd Dickinson, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Poindexter Dr. John M. Flippin Mr. and Mrs. Clarence N. Irby Adam Spencer C. B. Fore Dr. and Mrs. Harold Crowder, Jr. James M. Frye William N. Mays

Helen Dodson Anabel Carter Alex and Madeline Driskill Eva D. Gardner Anne Dunton Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Burton

E Dennis Edmonds Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr.

G Steve Garber Mr. and Mrs. Sonny Suddith Warren A. Gardner Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. Gentry Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth L. Harris, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Pugh Seven Hills Women’s Golf League Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Garner Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Garner

22

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

James Gilley Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Hankins, Jr. Obed Gonzales Anabel Carter Allyne Greene Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Lilburn Greer Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Dorothy Gunter Dorothy M. Eppes

Eddie M. Powell

I

Frances Anne Thackston

Irene Ingram

Mr. and Mrs. William L. Wellons

Mrs. Michael I. Anderson

Lorene D. Womble

Glass’s Auto Service, Inc.

Harvey Heck Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Burton Vickie P. Hite Hattie B. Puckett Walter C. Henderson William P. Guthrie Don Hepner Dorothy M. Eppes

H Dr. Warren C. Hagood Kenneth Cassada Mary Jean Childrey Dr. and Mrs. Harold Crowder, Jr. Lucy. Fuller Barbara B. Johnston Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Leggett

Michael Arthur “Mike” Higgins Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Rachel Hodge Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Wayne Holland Adam Spencer Linda Holt

Mr. and Mrs. Harry L. Mapp, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. T.C. Leggett

Betty V. Nelson

Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Nichols Dr. and Mrs. Lucien W. Roberts Eva Smith Mr. and Mrs. John S. Streker Nancy H. Wood Dr. and Mrs. Frank G. Wray Rev. Lee Warren Hahnlen Mr. and Mrs. Clyde T. Mathews Dr. Sharon B. Hahnlen

J.D. Holton Virgie Beasley Jerry B. Coffey

Tigers for Employee Fund

Kathryn C. Lawson

Erna Isaacs

J Mabel Walker Jackson Donnie R. Conner Ronald M. Jenkins Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Newton C. Crump, Jr. Lucille Crews Coates Jennings Mr. and Mrs. Samuel H. Burton Jr. Doug Joiner Josephine F. Burks C. Edward Jones Dorothy H. Jones

George A. Lawter, Sr. Donnie R. Conner Emily Lewis Lee Mr. and Mrs. George Hanlon Elizabeth Stembridge Leggett Dr. and Mrs. Harold Crowder, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert T. Greene Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Leggett Irvin “Lee” Lenhart, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Mary R. Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Merle T. Adkins III Amelia G. Link Barbara B. Collie Helen Long Mr. and Mrs. Gary Roller

Thanks to the generosity of the Lynchburg Community Trust there is a new jungle-gym at Hat Creek Camps and Conferences. Photographed above are some of the youth of PHBGH just before they jumped into jungle-gym fun!

William N. Mays

Mr. and Mrs. Gene Rebholz

Judge William P. Hay, Jr.

C.E. Isaacs

Rebecca Hawkins

Mr. and Mrs. Roy Stiltner

Mr. and Mrs. Merle T. Adkins III

L

Tampa Bay Financial Planning

Greif

Mr. and Mrs. Clyde T. Mathews

Arthur Lee “Art” Harrell

Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Keys

Bernard S. Gowen, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Donald Pafford

Dr. Cynthia K. Hall

Thomas and Faye Keys

England’s Stove Works, Inc.

Lalliance Francaise Delynchburg

Iris Wells Hall

K

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Shrader

Virginia “Ginny” Hopkins J. Taylor Thornhill, III Gloria Kavenaugh Hughes Barbara C. Hash Ryland and Nancy Hunter Mr. and Mrs. Louis W. Moore

Mr. and Mrs. Harry L. Mapp, Jr. Betty V. Nelson Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Nichols

23

Kelly Miller Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Leggett Jacob Mills Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Douglas Mitchell Joyce H. Green Mark Mokris Mr. and Mrs. William L. Wellons Mr. Maxwell F. “Maxie” Moore Mr. and Mrs. Merle T. Adkins III Mrs. Grace Marshall and Leroy E. Marshall

Making new friends at PHBGH is special.

Alma Elizabeth M. Love

Sharon Isaacs McCulley

N Jack Neal Mr. and Mrs. William J. Long, Jr.

Jackie B. Conner

Mr. and Mrs. Clarence N. Irby

Mr. and Mrs. Ernest M. Nichols

Jean T. Holmes

Erna Isaacs

The Church of Jesus Christ

J. Herbert Joyner Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Lester

James McFarland Mr. and Mrs. Joe Bird

Mrs. Grace Marshall and Leroy E. Marshall

Mr. and Mrs. James McGhee

Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Parham

Lorena McIvor

Charles Lynch Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr.

M Betty Robertson Marsh Barbara Helms Lynchburg Home Rebekah Lodge No. 41 Richard Earlwin Marshall Mrs. Grace Marshall and Leroy E. Marshall Robert L. Martin Audrey Martin Robert “Bob” Mateer Mr. and Mrs. Clarence N. Irby Barry Wendell Maxey Elsie M. Denton Dr. Jim McClellan Mr. and Mrs. Sumner R. Pugh

Evelyn O. Goodwin

Lucy Neal W. Lewis Neal II Jack Newcomb Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr.

Carolyn M. Dews Rosetta Wallen McKinney Cathryn W. Culley Elnora W. Duffey Becky Moorefield Betty D. Rodenhizer WOM of Gravel Hill Baptist Church Lucille Medley Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Clyde B. Midkiff Joyce R. Midkiff Mr. and Mrs. Wendel Miles Mr. and Mrs. Arnold C. Ripley Mancel Leroy “Sonny” Miley Lura Jean W. Chandler Joy R. Miley Gail W. Miller Adam Spencer Esther Vulpius

O Mary Frances O’Brian Mr. and Mrs. William E. Jamerson Leonard Oliver Mr. and Mrs. Benny O. Marston

PAT R I C K H E N R Y. O R G

Anabel Carter James Rigg Mr. and Mrs. T. C. Leggett Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Ripley Mr. and Mrs. Arnold C. Ripley Barbara Rowland Ann C. Edmunds Mr. and Mrs. Robert T. Greene Barbara B. Johnston Sam Russell Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Lightle

S Jane Quinn Saunders The Community Foundation Jackie P. Shields Janice Burton Dr. Jean Short Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Willis Smith, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Mary C. Snoddy Glen N. Abernathy Mary B. Feagans Stinnett Mr. and Mrs. Bobby J. Bondurant Hanna Burruss Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Butler Cynthia Calkins

P Merle C. Pairet Deborah A. Banton Randy Kile Doris C. Harrison James H. Hughes Ms. Margaret A. Stombock and Mr. William E. Stombock Brad Puryear Mr. and Mrs. John B. Puryear, Jr.

Lt. Col. and Mrs. Eldon W. Cox Mr. and Mrs. John N. Faris Mr. and Mrs. Edward D. Feagans Carol Garland Robbie M. Howell Mr. and Mrs. Clarence N. Irby Helen S. Massie Judy A. Mayberry William N. Mays Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Mitchell

R

Mr. and Mrs. John K. Pettyjohn

Robbie Reed

Mary Riely Pettyjohn

Dr. Cynthia K. Hall

24

Norman Reese

Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin D. Smith

T.M. Tucker

Col. William W. Thompson

I. Paul Wailes III

Edwin M. Pairet

Mr. and Mrs. Gregory L. Wright

Mr. and Mrs. Sumner R. Pugh

Thomas Walter Stubblefield Julia West Nichols Pearl Sturgill Mr. and Mrs. Clarence N. Irby

T Dewey E. Jack Tanksley Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Thomas Neavil Teass

Joseph Tucker Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr. Charles “Chuck” Tucker Rosemary Anglin Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Moore

Mr. and Mrs. Newton C. Crump, Jr.

Donna M. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Burton Frances Long West Wayne M. Whitlow Mr. and Mrs. George Clover Frank R. Williams, Sr.

U

Judith Dzaack

Catherine Utley

Larry Francisco

Mr. and Mrs. Norman D. Wagstaff, Jr.

V Janie Viele Mr. and Mrs. Stephen D. Walker

Ray Wood Mr. and Mrs. Clarence N. Irby Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Markham Leota Wright American Legion Auxiliary Unit 104

Glass’s Auto Service, Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Steve Anderson

Mr. and Mrs. Horace A. Teass Tucker Watkins Tharpe

Mary Walton Hattie Warren

Irene Stinson Bernard S. Gowen, Jr.

W

Y Bernice Younger Mr. and Mrs. Robert T. Greene Pastor Matthew and Dee Yukon Adam Spencer

Harold Williamson Mr. and Mrs. William J. Long, Jr. Ileen Wills Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. Hubbard Betty Joan C. Winston Jeanette M. Walker

For five years First Baptist Church in South Boston has made and sold Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter and Coconut Easter Eggs as a fund raiser to help pay for their church bus. Church member Carolyn Short is committed to selling many of the eggs, but often finds that a purchaser would rather make a monetary donation rather than actually purchasing an egg. Several years ago Mrs. Short decided to take the eggs that would have been received due to the donated money and give them to the youth and staff of Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes. Thank you First Baptist Church and Carolyn Short, the eggs are delicious!!!

25

Bikes, Skateboards, Chalk and Scooters...

I

n the summer there are the normal chores, work/study requirements, school requirements, etc., for the youth at PHBGH, but there is also genuine old-fashioned summer fun! Whether it is a splash in the pool; a thorough investigation of an unusual bug; watermelon delight; garden duty; just hanging out with a best friend; and so much more our youth get the opportunity to run around the old-fashioned way in the great out of doors.

We are reminded of the outdoor opportunities each day as we walk out of the administration building at Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes where you immediately see our enormous front lawn. In the winter, when it snows it is always a treat to see it filled with youth building

26

snowmen – or snowwomen – and having friendly snow ball exchanges.

In the fall, it is often filled with boys and girls jumping in and out of leaf piles or practicing to become the next great football player or cheerleader.

It is in the Spring and Summer, however, that we most enjoy seeing this green space, and the semicircular drive that defines it, bringing out the youth in everyone. Bikes, skateboards, chalk and scooters are out just about every sunny day.

Houseparents become kids again as they join in friendly games of Frisbees and baseball.

Our youth come to live with us most often because of distressing situations where wounds of anxiety

and despair can cripple. As we work to meet the needs of every child before us, we are truly thankful for our big green lawn. Our lawn is, in and of itself, a healer of sorts; it is a happy mostly open place where the sun can shine brightly and everyone can run, jump and play. A place where confidence is built, where play is safe, where laughter heals and where just being a kid again is cool!

We are also reminded that this lawn was purposefully planned out over sixty years ago by the founding directors and trustees of PHBGH. Not only did they respect the need for every child to have space to run and play, but they knew that a place free of worry and anxiety would provide healing happiness.

Could the Charleston Massacre Have Been Avoided?

W

hile most Americans are devastated by the loss of precious life and the lasting effect of the killings in Charleston, there remains the young killer, Dylann Roof now faced with a long road of guilt and misery. If only Dylann could have found a place like Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Home to help him face his anxieties and to support him in finding positive solutions to the obvious hatred he has, I truly believe he could have turned his life around.

Being placed in a group home such as Patrick Henry is an eye-opening experience, this statement coming from a former resident. Yet by living in a group home, Dylann could have

had a support group, a whole family to walk behind him if need be, and friends that could last a lifetime no matter what race or religion they were.

The people who work at Patrick Henry are all ears. While they will not support negative action, they will back you up when they feel as though you are right in the way you handle difficult circumstances. That could have been something that Dylann needed - a person who could be there to listen when he needed to vent. If they feel as though you are wrong, they will correct you and help you out in finding a solution, but if they feel your actions are worthy they also will support your decisions.

By Erica, former PHBGH Youth Patrick Henry Family Services is truly God centered. Whether it takes you a day to find Christ, or a year, the staff members there aren’t going to just turn away from you. Powerful life lessons come out of PHFS. The love that is given by PH staff is something that is cherished by many and never taken for granted. Maybe that’s all Dylann needed was a place like PHFS. People to stand by him, to believe in the goodness within, but people to also turn him around from useless anger and negative actions.

People unafraid to let him know that even if someone is a different race or religion as you, they can still be a loving and caring individual. Who knows? They can possibly even turn into a best friend…

27

Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Homes P.O. Box 1398 Brookneal, Virginia 24528

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Lynchburg, VA Permit # 161

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to learn about all the ways you can help.

Our Youth Honor and Respect the values of God, Country and our own founding father, Patrick Henry.

Hope for

Tomorrow

Counseling

A MINISTRY OF

A MINISTRY OF

AA M MIINNIISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Henry Patrick Henry Patrick Patrick Henry Henry • PatrickHenry.orgFamily • (434) 376-2006 Family Patrick ServicesHenry Family Services Family Services Family Services Services

AA MMI INNI ISSTTRRYY OOFF

Patrick Patrick Henry Henry Family Family Services Service