June 4, 2019
Planting Seeds in Phenix City
Site Coordinator Joan Gatewood lead Communities of Transformation in Phenix City in a seed-planting activity. As members planted seeds, Joan related it to goal setting and planning: working the plan, tending to it, and nurturing it to make it bear fruit.
Here is what Joan had to say:
At our May 13th meeting, the Phenix City site family planted zinnia, marigold, sweet banana pepper, basil, and forget-me-not seeds in empty egg cartons, misted them with water, and gingerly carried them to our homes to be put in sunny windows to wait for the seeds to sprout. Some in the group had never planted anything before that night and were very excited about the experience, while others who had planted seeds in the past were helpful to those who were novices, giving advice about how and how much of whatever was needed. It was a great time of sharing and caring and getting our hands messy. The project was related to the making of goals, in that a plan is made which has to be carried out to be successful. Goals constantly require tending or they will wither into nothingness like untended seeds. Obstacles may come with a plant just as with a goal-- there may be a setback requiring time to heal and regroup before moving forward again. When the day finally comes when you can pick a bouquet of flowers or eat a banana pepper on a sandwich or add basil to the dish you are preparing, just as with a goal that has been achieved, all the work and problems fall away, and the rewards are sweet. Many of us have shared that our planted seeds have sprouted continuing our excitement, which is a big part of the fun of growing something and much like a goal being achieved.
Pine Hill Area Agencies Gather for Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
On Wednesday, May 29, 2019. United Way of Southwest Alabama’s Clarke County Outreach Center opened its doors at 118 Clark St. in Grove Hill. Members of Communities of Transformation in Pine Hill were on hand to show their support and share more about what COT is doing in the area. The purpose of the Outreach Center is to offer a variety of services under one roof. We look forward to working with Trista Walker, coordinator of the Outreach Center, to serve residents of Clarke county. The center will be open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays with services offered from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. COT-Pine Hill Outreach Day is scheduled for the second Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. until noon. We are excited for this community partnership!
Moving Forward in Eufaula
Communities of Transformation in Eufaula continues to move forward under the leadership of site coordinator Lasheena Flemming VISTA leader Beverly Brown has helped ensure a smooth transition. Members in Eufaula have had fun at Game Night, and they have worked to meet goals.
Recently Earlona Walker went through a 12-week training at the Alabama Corrections Academy, graduating in April. Stephanie March has completed all of her general Studies at Wallace Community College and received her degree. We are so proud of your hard work!
Montgomery's Celebration
State Representative Kirk Hatcher was our guest speaker for the celebration of our fifth class. Rep. Hatcher encouraged us to continue in our support of one another. He spoke about the importance of being part of a supportive community, referencing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s vision of a "Beloved Community" where everyone is valued and has the opportunity to succeed. Rep. Hatcher encouraged members of Communities of Transformation to continue to strive for this vision; to share in each other's successes and to carry each other's burdens. We appreciate Rep. Hatcher's willingness to visit COT on a long, busy day of legislative session
Dothan Volunteer Spotlight: Les Pinckard
Dothan volunteer Les Pinckard has been involved in Communities of Transformation since its early days. Les is a faithful volunteer who can be counted on for just about anything. He finds creative ways to serve! He has hosted a graduation party for one of our members, taken the kids to Water World, and manned the grill at cookouts. He and his wife Caroline are advocates for COT all around town. Les is a member of First United Methodist Church in Dothan, and he volunteers with Rotary, The Harbor Homeless Ministry, but his heart is with COT. Les is an excellent communicator who is willing to share his experiences with others to help them succeed. Les has a servant's heart and inspires others to serve as he does. Thanks, Les!
Volunteering in Brewton
Communities of Transformation in Brewton appreciates our volunteers! Some of our favorite ways to help include reading to students and tutoring at Brewton Elementary School. They also love volunteering at the Wonder Garden at the school. We also enjoy visiting the nursing home in Brewton.
Outside the school, volunteers help at Communities of Transformation by preparing meals, recruiting, leading book studies, and helping with our programs. Mostly, our volunteers enjoy motivating and walking along side our participants as we grow and learn together.
Events
Tuesday, June 25, July 2, and July 9- no meeting in Dothan
No meetings in July in Eufaula, Montgomery, and Phenix City
Tuesday July 2, 2019- no meeting in South Walton
Thursday, July 4 and July 18- no meeting in Evergreen
Tuesday, July 16- no meeting in Brewton
Tuesday, July 16- Taste and See in Dothan
