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Determined to Succeed RuralLeaderMagazine.com 47 Y outh is normally a carefree time to grow and to discover new things. Life is like a box of chocolates for you never know what you’re going to get. Some may consider this adage to be truth, however, how one choses to respond to life’s challenges makes all the difference. Eighteen year old Carrie Turner, native of Stewart County, Georgia has encountered a number of obstacles, yet her tenacity of spirit and resilience is an example for all.
Like most budding freshman, Turner was excited about the start of her high school career at Randolph Southern School in Shellman, Georgia. “My freshman year was going to my time to shine. I wanted to be involved in everything! I joined varsity cheerleading squad, the drama club, and ran varsity track.”
Turner was outgoing and excelled in every extracurricular activity. She was quickly promoted to co-captain for basketball cheerleading squad and was the first freshman to serve as an understudy for a leading role. Turner qualified for the state competition when she placed fourth during the regional track meet. During the state competition, Turner placed 7th out of 8.
“I finished 5th out of 8, moving up 2 places and trimming 2 seconds off my time,” she said. Though Turner excelled athletically, she was still committed to her education. She maintained a 4.0 and was inducted into the senior Beta club. Later, she became a member of the National Society of High School Scholars.
As Turner embarked on her sophomore year, she continued to excel academically and socially. She remained active in cheerleading, drama, and track. It was not until late fall when something would occur that would change her life.
“During this time, football season was wrapping up. At this time, I became really tired, which was really unusual for me. After about a week of being too tired to do my homework and falling asleep in class, my parents took me to the doctor. He ran blood work and sent us home. That night, the doctor called and sent us to the hospital. I was told that I had cancer. The next morning, I was sent to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. There I was told that I had Leukemia and that the next three years would be filled with clinic visits, hospital admissions, and blood work,” she said.
Despite numerous obstacles and dealing with hair loss, Turner was determined to thrive. “Though I had been told that I had cancer, I never let my grades slip. I constantly worked on math, English, Spanish or science and managed a 4.0 average through the year,” she said.
The experience furthered developed her spiritual faith and gave her courage to allow her life to be a testimony to others. In the spring of that year, she participated in her first Relay for Life event, walking the survivor walk. Turner’s was motivated to live her best life while pursuing her dreams. Her high school junior year was the beginning the maintenance phase of her treatment. The phase would last approximately18 months.
“I would go for treatment once every four weeks with oral chemo every night. Though I was in treatment still, I continued to cheer. I was captain again this year. I was in drama club once again, this time as the lead role. A problem arose when my blood counts dropped really low. I had to be put on isolation while the dosage for my medicine was adjusted. This meant that I was unable to go to school, doing my school work at home again,” she said.
Though seemingly the odds were stacked against her, something happened. After 3 weeks, her counts rose to a suitable level as she was once more able to rehearse for the play with two weeks remaining until the region drama competition.
“Somehow we pulled it off and won second place in region, sending us to state for the second year. I was given an individual award, All-Region Best Actress. At state, we won third place and I was rewarded another individual award, All-State Best Actress,” Turner said.
Between treatments and performing, Turner maintained a 4.0 average. She also won 3rd place in a poetry writing contest sponsored by a local college. In addition, she discovered ways to help others, such as collecting pop-top tabs for the Ronald McDonald House she often frequented.
In the spring of her junior year she was unable to run track due to doctor’s orders. Turner decide to forgo sports and to consider her health foremost. At the end of the school year, as class vice president with a 4.0 average, she won the third highest average in her school, the University of Rochester Science Award, and highest class average. Before the close of the school year, Turner’s success was shadowed by the news that Randolph Southern would be Continued on page 50 All that I’ve been through since my sophomore year has made me the person that God wants me to be.
JK Veluswamy The Value of the Community Health Worker Model
48 RuralLeaderMagazine.com O n the verge of turning fifty, I found myself taking a close look at my career contributions. I had served a number of southwest Georgia nonprofits and government programs in a variety of ways. I had been a frontline worker and a manager, a writer and a doer, a leader and a follower. I began to realize that most of my productive and ‘fun” work involved being a facilitator- someone who helps others to garner their own assets and resources to improve and sustain themselves.
On several occasions throughout my life in southwest Georgia, I have heard my favorite local hero, Dr. Jim Hotz, reflect on the will of our residents. He has noted that we set our own priorities about what we want for our communities, and while we may invite others to join us, we don’t require it. The big bucks and highly educated people from Atlanta may have gifts to offer, but they are not the ones that keep our plans moving; they are not the ones that keep our hearts ticking; and they are not the ones that know best what we need. This is our community- we know it best, and we serve it best.
Just at the time I was reflecting on our rural resolve, I happened upon a job announcement from a national nonprofit, MHP. Since the 1980’s MHP has been carrying a torch for rural, isolated populations, and has worked to improve health access in these communities via the Community Health Worker (CHW) model. MHP’s history has focused on isolated Hispanic and Latino populations, and they have become a national leader in improving health care JK Veluswamy in Puerto Rico learning about plaintain farm work.
access for the populations that are hardest to reach. Because the CHW model works for any isolated population, MHP is working to spread their lessons learned to improve health outcomes across the country.
While community health workers have been around informally since there have been people – it wasn’t until the 1950’s that the concept and role of Community Health Worker (CHW) began to be closely researched and defined. The role first began to crop up in health literature in the 1950’s based on how people in the world’s most isolated places had managed to receive health care services via very dedicated and committed workers who challenged wetlands, mountains, frigid weather, and political and cultural barriers. During the 1960’s, the federal government began to look closer at the potential for developing CHWs into the US workforce, and several pilot funding efforts began. More substantial funding and research followed in order to better understand the role and its benefits.
Based on all of these efforts, we now have research on the model which not only shows the model works in both urban and rural areas, but there is also data that reflects a $2.28 return on every dollar invested ( 2008 Conference of State Legislatures). There is also an “official” definition for CHWs. The American Public Health Association defines a Community Health Worker as: “…a frontline public health worker who is a trusted member of and/or has an unusually close understanding of the community served." This trusting relationship enables the CHW to serve as a liaison/link/intermediary between health/social services and the community to facilitate access to services and improve the quality and cultural competence of service delivery.
A CHW also builds individual and community capacity by increasing health knowledge and self-sufficiency through a range of activities such as outreach, community education, informal counseling, social support and advocacy.” (www.apha.org)
So just what is it that makes CHW programs so special? It’s not just about employing people in a community to help with health education, to link community members to services, and to help find ways to overcome barriers such as transportation, language, and cultural differences. It is all of these things, but so much more. Most of all, it is about valuing and appreciating the wisdom that is within these isolated communities- and garnering that wisdom to facilitate the process of improvement. Regardless of how little formal education or professional background someone may have, there is a wealth of knowledge that comes from dedicated community members. It is this home-grown knowledge that is the “special sauce” that makes CHW programs so effective. The CHW model not only values, but requires the contributions of a community’s people. Regardless of income, education, culture, or history, CHW programs approach the people as a primary resource.
I love this perspective- it totally reminds me of Dr. Hotz, and why he is my local hero. It’s all about us, recognizing and using what we have, so that we can achieve the health we deserve. By employing people from the community- for the community- the CHW model provides a venue for information and support to flow both ways- back and forth, between and among those who serve and those who need access to the service. It is this flow of knowledge that creates improvement, allows for better care and healthier people. By implementing the CHW model, we can all be our own local heroes!
If you look around, you can see that there are several ways the CHW model is already active in our region. Community outreach workers, health and screening navigators, parent educators, visiting nurses, and lay health workers are among the roles currently being used to connect services to our isolated populations. Since we have information that tells us how we can best make use of the roles that fall under the CHW umbrella, why not take a closer look? With a few adjustments and a little better use of the model, we can be even more effective at reaching and impacting our isolated populations.
MHP is ready to join with us, and I am on board to do all I can to facilitate the use of MHP’s resources and expertise to move our efforts to the next level of success. For more information on how MHP can tailor services to improve local program efforts, contact me @ jkveluswamy@mhpsalud.org, and www. mhpsalud.org.— Your AD Here Contact us today for details. RuralLeaderMagazine@gmail.com
50 RuralLeaderMagazine.com Turner, continued from page 47. closing at the end of the semester. “That opened a whole new chapter up for my senior year,” she said. Starting a new school my senior year was tough and to make matters worse, it was our rival school, Terrell Academy in Dawson, Georgia, that I had to go to. But the transition was easier because I still cheered. However, the new school did not have a drama club. Instead, I became a member of the dance line,” she said.
Turner was not only a model student but also an exemplary individual who loves help others. The cheering squad and dance line participated in 4 Quarter 4 a Cure for the Rally Foundation. Over three thousand dollars was raised for childhood cancer research!
Turner is not only a high school senior but a college freshman as well! “I only take 2 high school classes, trigonometry and biology II. I am a duel enrollment student at Darton College in Albany, Georgia, so I take college courses in place of high school classes. This year, I have maintained my high school GPA of a 4.0 yet I also now have a college GPA of a 4.0.” said Turner.
When asked what her future plans are, Turner had this to say, “All that I’ve been through since my sophomore year has made me the person that God wants me to be. Because of my experiences, I want to be a pediatric oncology nurse. In the meantime, I plan to raise awareness and funding for childhood cancer research. Even after I receive my BSN and return to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to be a nurse, I still plan to raise awareness for childhood cancer. I won’t give up until every child has a chance to have a childhood without the threat of cancer.”— Building your professional brand P ersonal branding is an elusive topic to most people, yet it is important for career success. Wise professionals with career success know it can mean the difference between landing that dream job and never getting noticed.
So what do you think of when you hear the word "professional brand?" Simply stated, a brand is a promise of the value you'll deliver. "You may think you don't need a brand, but the reality is that you already have one," says Jana Fallon, vice president, Executive Development for Prudential Financial. "By managing that professional reputation you already have, you increase your chances of being known for qualities that can land your dream job or get you noticed by a company you have always wanted to work. If you do start actively managing your brand, you can find real power in knowing and sharing what your unique differentiators are." Fallon recommends five specific actions you can take today to improve your brand reputation. B = Build
Build your brand by first defining what you want that brand to be. To make this simpler, it should include no more than three or four characteristics that describe what you offer or aspire to offer. It is good to be aspirational but it also must be realistic. If you are having trouble getting started, begin by asking people you trust what they immediately associate with you. Ask for honest feedback and listen to what you hear. R = Reflect
Reflect on your strengths and liabilities frequently. What is the unique value that you have to offer and what do you aspire to be? Think about your strengths and what you do really well. What do you want to be known for in business? What differentiates you? Use those reflections to establish your unique brand. Perhaps you want to be known as a very curious, engaged consultant. Or perhaps your unique brand is one of intelligence, candor and strong ethics. A = Actions speak
In order to sustain your brand, you have to act accordingly. Your behaviors and the decisions you make daily impact your brand. Be bold in defining your brand and then have the courage to live up to that brand promise. If you are finding it challenging to start living your brand, find someone that has a style, behavior or an approach that you admire. Emulate what works. Try it yourself and see if it feels right for you. Experiment until you find your own authentic behavior. N = Network nonstop
To get others to recognize your brand, you have to market yourself. This clearly takes time and effort,
but it can be done effectively if you follow these key steps. To share your brand, network in the organization you work in, outside work with other professional contacts and in your community. Make yourself visible to those that can influence your career. The key to a successful professional brand is having strong "word-of-mouth marketing" from friends, coworkers, customers and other contacts. Having a strong brand means finding ways to network and manage what those contacts know and then say to others about your capabilities. D = Decide today
"Decide to make managing your professional brand a priority," Fallon says. "Carve out time each week to fine tune and evolve your defined brand. Make time to reflect and try out new behaviors and to expand your network. There is real power in knowing where you are focused and letting others know for what you aspire to be known."—BPT
Under 20 Honoring young individuals for exemplary academic achievement and service to community Nationally and Abroad
Ricardo continued from page 44 mentoring Hispanic youth. Some of the people that attend the youth have not always had a good friend base and have been lead to do wrong things. I try to hang out with them as much as possible so they can stay away from some of the bad things they used to do," he said.
Ricardo has also worked with several other outreach programs and community service projects such as Faith in Action and O’Neal Pre-K to help some Hispanic children that are having trouble with their English. "Seeing these kids grow academically and socially because of this small hour each day is a testimony to how investing in other’s lives in even a small way can make a tremendous impact that will contribute to the rest of the lives of the people around us. I enjoy working with others because I benefit from seeing change in people. It’s amazing how people change their perspectives in life just by having somebody to look up to and spend time with. Working with others and watching them grow is the greatest motivating factor in my life. — Brian is 16 and Americus, Georgia is his hometown. He is the proud son of Brian Keith Terry, Sr. and Rebecca Thomas Terry and currently attends Americus-Sumter County High School. His career path is Business and Communications. In the future, he plans to become a Fashion Marketer and Designer.
Brian has several accolades to his credit. He is an Eagle Scout, which is the highest rank and volunteers for Boy Scouts of America. He also graduated from the Swagga and Lace Initiative program based in Columbus, GA.
Brian is not only an Beta Club member but also participates in the an Americus Sumter Singers (Show Choir). In addition to numerous community activities, Brian also serves on the Prom committee, was elected Sophomore Class President, and Junior Class Secretary.
Annually, Brian assists with Annual Birthday Party for Jesus activity, Panther Mascot Member of L.E.G.O., which stands for "Leadership through Education Under Greek Lettered Organization."
Brian's faith plays a huge role in his life. He is a member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church of Americus where he sings in the choir. " I'm well planted in my religion. I believe that everyone has there own opinion. I also believe that everyone should follow there dream because the sky is the limit," Brian said. — Brian Keith Terry Jr. Nominate A Candidate for Under 20 We're looking for exceptional and deserving youth under 20! Nominate your candidate today for the next edition of Rural Leader Magazine. Now accepting applicants throughout the United States and abroad. Visit RuralLeaderMagazine.com for more information!—
52 RuralLeaderMagazine.com Outdoor Ministry, continued from page 34 and they have a daughter named Michelle. He farmed and raised purebred swine most of his life. He graduated in 1974 from Clay County High School and later attended Abraham Baldwin Agriculture College (ABAC) in Tifton, GA. Two years, later Watson returned home and joined his father in their farming operation. Eddie gave his life to Christ and accepted the call of the ministry. Eddie was licensed by his church to preach in 1998 and accepted to Southern Baptist School of Biblical Studies in Jacksonville, Florida where he received a doctorate of Christian Ministry Degree in April 2002. He also is not only a minister, but an author and song writer. Watson has lead revivals from South Carolina to Missouri, and even as far west as Idaho.
"I was raised in Clay County in a time when going to church was the thing to do. I went to church because that is what all good people did and at the age of eleven or twelve I joined the church. I did understand the fact that I was a sinner and that I was in need of a savior. I knew that Jesus Christ was the one who died for my sin. I knew that He lived a sinless life, that he healed people, cast out demons, died on the cross, rose the third day, and now sits at the right hand of the Father to make intersession for those like me. I knew all those things; I believed all those things, but I was still lost!" Watson said.
Watson believed that he was doing what was expected. He served in the church in various ways such as taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, served on the committee, and list of other church activities.
"We talked about God leading, but I never saw anyone following. We talked about God’s power that was available to Christians but I never saw anyone using it. I never saw a life changed and I didn’t Worship Service at Clay Hill Christian Retreat
even know it was supposed to. I was just doing what I saw everyone else doing and we were all just doing church," he said.
However, an experience would change Watson’s life forever. “In the mid-nineties, I attended a revival service in Eufaula, Alabama being led by a friend that I had met at a recording studio. I couldn’t tell you a thing he said but that night I came to the understanding that there is a difference in having faith and having saving faith. It was revealed to me that night, if your faith in Christ is not strong enough to cause you to follow Him, then you really have no faith at all. If you really believed in Him, you would listen to Him, and you would follow Him and that night I determined in my heart to not only know the Word of God but to know the God of the Word. That night I submitted my life to Him. I started listening and believing to the point of following,” he said.
“God gave me a vision of a place that was different from the normal routine church, which is where
Clay Hill Christian Retreat got its start. It was first to be a place to minister to young people because very few churches in the area were truly ministering to youth and young adults. It was to be rustic because young people are not really all that impressed by fancy cathedral style buildings. Most just want a place where they can feel at home,” Watson said.
Watson began sharing the idea with Pastor Jeff Hines, of Fort Gaines Baptist Church. They discussed ideas about outdoor ministry to reach people with the Gospel through hunting, fishing, for example. “I started an evangelistic ministry called Eddie Watson Ministries back in 2003 when I began slowing down our farming operation. [He is also president of Eddie Watson Ministries, a non-profit, tax-exempt, evangelistic ministry for the spreading of the Gospel.] It was called that simply because at the time I couldn’t think of a cool, catchy name to Pastor Jeff Hines and Pastor Eddie Watson Turkey hunting at Clay Hill Christian Retreat
give it. We started a small hunting operation on the farm that we called Clay Hill Hunting. We came up with the name because we lived on a clay hill in Clay County. Clay Hill Christian Retreat was a ministry under the umbrella of Eddie Watson Ministries. We used the name Clay Hill because it too was located on the farm and since we would also use an outdoor theme for much of our ministry here,” he said. The outdoor ministry meeting occur the first Thursday of each month. A wild game supper then a speaker share information on an outdoor related subject. Clay Hill consists of four cabins, which accommodate six people per cabin.
“It (monthly meetings) is not a "churchy" event but we always make a spiritual application before the night is over. There has been a number of people whose walk with the Lord started at the Outdoor Ministry Meetings at Clay Hill,” Watson said. Watson hopes to expand the facilities in the future. The once farrowing barn that held twenty-two creates and twenty-two sows and their piglets, now is the chapel.
“The same building that use to nurture pork chops now nurtures Christians. Our goal for the Retreat is to have a place where youth, men or women can come for retreats, Bible studies, or just have a place to get alone with God,” he said.
Clay Hill Christian Retreat is available for churches or Christian groups to utilize. Prepared and customizable programs are available. At least one camp or Bible school is held during the summer for youth. Outdoor activities are incorporated into the program. To date, Clay Hill Christian Retreat has become the host to national skeet, rifle, and archery champions, outdoor TV show producers, in addition to hunters and fishermen.
Watson said, “Through our outdoor ministry meetings and our camps we always teach Bible truth and we try to teach life skills that seem to be a thing of the past to many today. We have Spirit led services each Sunday starting at 11:30AM (EST) and we always have lunch after each service. Our desire is to have a group of believers who can share their spiritual gifts and minister to those who may come to Clay Hill for retreats or camps. We also do monthly programs at the Nursing Home in Ft. Gaines.”
For more information about Clay Hill Christian Retreat, contact Eddie Watson at 229-768-2820 or write to eddiewatson@windstream.net; or visit https://www.facebook.com/clayhill.christianretreat—
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