Volunteering – Good For Your Health

Win A 2011 Mustang

Celebrating 20 Years of Volunteerism

Summer Activities for the Family

life TOGETHER!

Rising Food Insecurity with Middle-Class Families

c o u n c i l o f c h u r c h e s o f t h e o z a r k s

Spring 2011

The New Hungry

Mission StatementTo improve the quality of life in our region through collaborative

outreach in the name of Jesus Christ, by doing together what

can best be done together.

Council of Churches of the Ozarks

Board of DirectorsCindy Waites, Chair

Kevin Ausburn

Jan Baumgartner

Roseann Bentley

Kenneth Chumbley

Kim Erdel

Dan Friberg

Neil Guion

Gordon Kinne

Byron Klaus

Ken McClure

David Peck

Francine Pratt

Tom Reidy

Tim Rosenbury

Neil Stenger, Ex OfficioBill Foster

The CCO Foundation Chair

CCOzarks.org627 N. Glenstone

P.O. Box 3947 Springfield, MO 65808

Office: 417-862-3586 Fax: 417-862-2129

Startling Study: Middle Class Families Accessing Food PantriesDespite some economic news that suggests a recovery is on the horizon, the effect of the “Great Recession” on vast numbers of Americans is taking its toll. I am startled by a recent study released by Feeding America entitled “Map the Meal Gap” (view the study at www.feedingamerica.org).

According to the Feeding America study, about 45% of those struggling with hunger nationwide actually have incomes above the federal poverty level. Nationally, about 29% of food insecure individuals are above the eligibility cut off for most food assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), school breakfast and lunch programs, and WIC (Women, Infants and Children). Here in Greene County, Missouri, the Feeding America study reports that 31% of those who are food insecure are above the eligibility cut off for federal food assistance programs.

The bottom line is that more and more families that are considered “middle class” are counting on agencies like Crosslines to provide food assistance because of food insecurity. Food insecurity may reflect a household’s need to make trade-offs between important basic needs such as housing, medical bills, utilities, and transportation.

Crosslines to Prioritize Food AssistanceOn May 2, 2011, Crosslines began a new food distribution method/model called “Client Choice”. Clients visiting Crosslines will choose food to fit their family’s tastes, dietary needs and nutrition. This new model, which is similar to a small grocery store, will allow for a more cost-effective way to distribute emergency food. Tom Faulkner, Director of Crosslines, sees even greater benefits to our clients. According to Tom, “Offering clients a choice of food also helps to convey greater dignity to our clients. In addition, offering clients a choice will cut down on waste as clients will not receive items that they may not like or cannot eat.” Crosslines continues to be “volunteer driven” as volunteers from area churches assist clients as they select food for their families.

Like all our service agencies described here in these pages, Crosslines seeks to respond to our community’s needs as we improve our services for our most vulnerable neighbors. As Easter People, we trust that as we serve our neighbors in need there is an opportunity for a Christ encounter!

May God’s presence and peace encourage you and your faith community throughout this Easter Season!

Mark Struckhoff Executive Director

From the Executive Director

From the Cover

The New Hungry — page 4

Volunteering – Good for Your Health — page 8-9

Win a 2011 Mustang — page 6

Celebrating 20 Years of Volunteerism — page 8

Summer Activities for the Family — page 10

2 life TOGETHER!

Service Agencies

Ambassadors For Children Sondra Uzzell, msw, lcsw, Director

627 N. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65802

417-862-3586

Child Care Food Program Vicki McMillen, Director

1531 E. Sunshine E-1 Springfield, MO 65804

1-800-818-6812

Child Care Resource & Referral Nicole Piper, Director 1910 E. Meadowmere Springfield, MO 65804

417-887-3545

Connections Handyman Service Richard Virnig, Director

627 N. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65802

417-862-3586

Crosslines Tom Faulkner, Director

1710 E. Chestnut Expressway Springfield, MO 65802

417-869-0563

Daybreak Adult Day Care Rick Stephenson, Director

1461 E. Seminole Springfield, MO 65804

417-881-0133 / 417-882-4243

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Connie Payne, Director

627 N. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65802

417-862-3598

RSVP Sharon Bradford, Director

627 N. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65802

417-862-3595

Therapeutic Riding of the Ozarks Kent Crumpley, Director

627 N. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65802

417-862-3586

Uniting Faith. Serving with Compassion.

Council of Churches Foundation Presents

The Power of Together 2011 ChallengePresenting Sponsor - $5,000 +

Gold Sponsors - $2,500 +

Silver Sponsor - $1,000 + Peck Insurance & Financial Services

Southern Missouri Containers

Challenge Partner - $250 + Ollis & Company

The Power of Together Challenge – Coming This June!

In early June, the Council of Churches will officially announce the 2011 Power of Together Challenge. With the generosity of the CCO Board, CCO Foundation and community business partners, we will be able to match gifts of $100 or more dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000!

The funds generated by the Challenge are part of the 2011 Council of Churches Annual Fund. Funds will be utilized this year to help us continue to provide services to the most vulnerable children, elderly and people with disabilities in our community.

In 2010, the Challenge generated $102,556 in donations! Thank you for your response to the Challenge as we continue to serve our community through your generosity!

Sponsorships Still Available!

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Crosslines Mission Statement:

“Serving God’s People In Need”

The New huNgry By Tom Faulkner & Christine Moses

When many of us think of hunger, we picture a country far away in a jungle or desert plain, but not in America and certainly not in Southwest Missouri. Many of our neighbors are faced with the harsh reality of hunger. Nearly half of the children in Springfield public schools are on free or reduced lunches and with the economic downturn, downsizing and layoffs, hunger is very real in Southwest Missouri.

A recent study, Map the Meal Gap by Feeding America, shows that more middle class families are visiting food pantries such as Crosslines. Indicators at Crosslines and other pantries and food banks have pointed to a rising number of families considered middle-class needing emergency food assistance. In the case of Crosslines, within the top three reasons for visiting is “no income at this time”, “less hours at work” and “fixed income”, which corresponds with unemployment and underemployment.

The number of “food insecure” individuals represent nearly 17 percent of the 1.15 million population in the 29 county service area (for Ozarks Food Harvest), just slightly above the state rate of 16.8 percent. This is nearly 200,000 people. Of those people, 24 percent (48,000) are not eligible for any government assistance. This number would fill JQH Arena to capacity four times! Bart Brown, president/CEO of Ozarks Food Harvest explained that most are either recently unemployed or underemployed and have likely never used a food pantry or other charity in the past. For example, a family of four with an income of $38,160 may be having difficulty putting food on the table.

Crosslines Shifts to New Distribution Model With the changing times, Crosslines is overhauling the current distribution model for the food pantry. In order to better serve our clients and more effectively utilize funding, the new Client Choice Food Pantry Model has been adopted at Crosslines. In the past, clients received a pre-boxed portion of emergency food without the choice or consideration of special dietary needs or choice. With the Client Choice model, clients are able to shop the pantry

Crosslines Tom Faulkner, Director

1710 E. Chestnut Expwy • Springfield, MO 65802 www.crosslines.org

Food Bank & Food Pantry – What’s the Difference?A food bank is a warehouse that collects and distributes food to charities and food pantries at low or no

cost to the food pantry. The food pantries distribute the food directly to clients that need the food and/or supplies at no cost to the client. Ozarks Food Harvest is the only food bank in Southwest Missouri and they service approximately 300 agency partner food pantries including Crosslines. (Source: Ozarks Food Harvest — www.ozarksfoodharvest.org)

4 life TOGETHER!

for food selections that both fit the likes and the needs of their family. The amount of food will be pre-determined based upon family size and clients will continue to check in upon arrival. This model is setup like a small grocery store – with fully stocked shelves, additional selections of fresh produce and dairy products. This model will cut down on waste and allow for stretching funding more by ordering food at discounted and/or bulk rates. Crosslines accepts both in kind food and financial donations. Financial donations can be further leveraged with our discounts on food and monetary donations can be made securely online at CCOzarks.org.

The heartbeat of Crosslines continues to be our dedicated volunteers and our donors. Thanks to you we are able to continue to provide for our community’s families in crisis.

Tax Credit Available for Food Pantry Donations!Currently, the State of Missouri offers a Food Pantry Tax Credit to any taxpayer who donates money or food supplies to a qualified food pantry, such as Crosslines. This tax credit does not apply to food banks. The tax credit can be as much as $2500 per taxpayer per year and the donation must be made on or before August 28, 2011. More information and the details for this tax credit can be found at dor.mo.gov/taxcredit/fpt.

Crosslines accepts both in-kind food and financial donations. Financial donations can be stretched further and you can donate securely online at CCOzarks.org

VoluNTeer SpoTlighTKeeping Involved Keeps Us Busy!

Neal and Juanita Cannon have what some may say are ‘big hearts’. This active couple who have been married for 61 years and have two children are involved with volunteering in our community. In 1990, when Neal retired, the couple was looking to keep involved. Their pastor at First & Calvary Presbyterian introduced them to Crosslines food pantry. After seeing the ministry in action and being a part of “really doing something directly to help someone and seeing that person,” as Neal put it, they were hooked!

Over the last 20 years, they have seen a lot change at Crosslines. Then, the average was 20 families per day (the current average is 58), and now they see more young families in their 20’s. Juanita noted that so many of the families apologize to them for needing help and many talk of losing their jobs.

This active couple not only volunteers at Crosslines, but also finds time to help with the Blood Mobile at the American Red Cross, the annual book sale with Friends of the Library and for the last 15 years have volunteered at nursing homes through their church’s Sunday School. When asked, how do you do it all, a simple and quick response of, “It gives a reason to get up in the morning!” We would like to thank Neal and Juanita for over 20 years of dedicated service to Crosslines and our community!

Juanita and Neal Cannon

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May is National Foster Care Month.Please consider organizing a new clothing drive, collecting hygiene items or adopting a caseworker or volunteering as a tutor to support the over 970 children currently in foster care from Greene County.

Serving Abused & Neglected Children From Greene County

Raffle tickets to win a 2011 Mustang GT or $10,000 cash are on sale now! This is through the Price Cutter Charity Championship & tickets are $25 each. Proceeds benefit Ambassadors for Children. Only 5,000 tickets will be sold & they sell out fast!

Ticket also includes admission to all four-tournament days August 11th – August 14th and entry to win 1 of 500 gift certificates valued at $25 each (1 in 10 chance to win).

Call Sondra at 862-3586 ext. 236 to order via credit card or visit ambassadors4children.org to print mail-in order form.

Annual Foster parent Appreciation DinnerThe 9th Annual Foster Parent Appreciation Dinner was held at First Baptist Church in Springfield. AFC presented foster parents with a rose in appreciation for their service and provided various sports equipment items for foster children with funds provided by the Springfield Sports Hall of Fame. We are proud to partner with several other local agencies to organize this event each year.

2nd Annual Appreciation DinnerOur 2nd Annual Appreciation Dinner was April 7th at Wesley United Methodist Church. The 2010 Caseworker of the Year Award was presented to Renee’ Knight from Boys & Girls Town. The 2010 Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Dalene Doman. Special Appreciation Awards were presented to Anne Schubert & Karenanne Miller in recognition of 12 years of volunteer service on the Ambassadors for Children Advisory Committee. Thank you to all the donors, volunteers and caseworkers that help us serve local foster children. Renee’ Knight &

Sondra Uzzell

CHIP IN FOR CHARITY

2011 Mustang GT

Ambassadors for Children An Operating Agency of the

Council of Churches of the Ozarks Sondra Uzzell, MSW, LCSW

Agency Director 627 N. Glenstone • Springfield, MO 65802

417-862-3586 ext. 236 • suzzell@ccozarks.org ambassadors4children.blogspot.com

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Therapeutic Riding of the OzarksEnabling the Disabled Through Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Local artist gives gift of talent and a one of a kind piece of art to TRO. Now, it could be yours!Rachel Wilson, born and raised in Webb City, Mo., has gained national recognition for her “Found Wood Sculptures” in which she gives hedge limbs, which would otherwise end up on a burn pile, a second life as a unique work of art. Now one of her sculptures is raising funds to support TRO and the life changing therapy services making a difference for children and adults with disabilities in the Ozarks.After the ice storms of 2007 and 2008 left the ground of the Wilson’s farm covered in broken limbs Rachel became a painter turned sculptor with her exclusive “Found Wood Sculptures”. She has private collections in Florida, Kansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Colorado, Missouri and Texas. The sculptures have been featured in exhibits at Silver Dollar City and the Titanic Museum in Branson. In 2010, Rachel was also asked to display her sculptures at the Altec World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky.“Rowdy” is a one-of-a-kind piece created specifically for TRO. Due to the hard wood nature of hedge, which is both insect and rot resistant, this approximately three foot horse sculpture is the perfect addition to your home or garden. For a $10 donation you can support TRO and enter for your chance to win! “Rowdy” will be featured in several local businesses from now until December. Updates on these locations will be coming soon!!To donate $10 for a chance to win “Rowdy”, visit CCOzarks.org or call 417-862-3586 ext. 230. Donations can also be received via mail at the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, 627 N. Glenstone, Springfield, Mo. 65802. Please specify that your $10 donation is for TRO-Rachel Wilson Horse Sculpture and a receipt will be sent to you for your records. Thank you!

Visit TRO on Facebook Check out TRO’s page on Facebook to keep informed on the latest news, events and opportunities to get involved. Follow the link on our blog or visit, www.facebook.com/therapeuticridingoftheozarks

Contact UsVisit our blog at www.trozarks.blogspot.com, or contact: Kent Crumpley, Director Therapeutic Riding of the Ozarks 627 N. Glenstone Springfield, MO 65802 417-862-3586, ext. 230 kcrumpley@CCOzarks.org www.CCOzarks.org

Summer Fun!TRO will be having summer sessions beginning in May. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit our blog at trozarks.blogspot.com for schedule updates and volunteer training opportunities. Come join our team of amazing volunteers!

Upcoming EventsJoin TRO for an evening full of barrel racing and team roping at the 6th Annual Rope & Ride benefitting TRO at the Roan Rose Ranch Arena July 9th starting at 4:00 p.m. For more information and ways to get involved contact Christine Giddings at 862-3586 ext. 230.

life TOGETHER! 7

Achieve a Happier, Healthier Life Through VolunteeringAdd another healthy lifestyle habit to your list – and it’s not another super fruit or spinning class! Recent studies have shown a strong connection between volunteering and significant health benefits. Just think, you can help yourself by helping other people and helping our community! According to a study conducted and compiled by the Corporation for National & Community Service, people who volunteer 100 hours of service per year can achieve healthier, happier lives than those that do not. Get out there and volunteer – it’s good for you!

Here’s The List of Possible Benefits• Reduced risk of depression• Lower mortality rates• Increased longevity• Greater functional ability later in life• Increased sense of accomplishment and purpose• Less incidence of heart disease

Celebrating 20 Years of the Gift of TimeThursday, June 16th

Ramada Oasis Convention Center

Recognizing Volunteers in the Ozarks!

Everyday throughout the Ozarks, hundreds of volunteers give the “gift of time” to non-profit, public and human-service organizations. Many volunteers have full schedules even before their volunteer activities. But because they consider volunteerism vital, they lend their time, talent and resources with boundless generosity, spirit and enthusiasm.

Since 1991, the “Gift of Time” awards have recognized volunteers who contribute thousands of hours to make life better for our friends and neighbors here in the Ozarks. This year, we

celebrate our 20th Anniversary! Tickets are available by contacting RSVP at 862-3586.

The Rosanna Bradshaw Memorial Wall of Fame was established in 1994 to honor volunteers through the Gift of Time awards. Portraits of Gift of Time award recipients in the Rosanna Bradshaw Memorial Wall of Fame are on display in the Busch Building throughout the year. The Wall of Fame’s namesake was an active volunteer in the Ozarks for many years and helped to create the Gift of Time program.

8 life TOGETHER!

Volunteering with the Council of Churches can be a rewarding experience for families and individuals. Through our nine service agencies, we offer a variety of opportunities for teens, seniors and entire families! Here are a few opportunities available.

Follow your heart: More Hearts=Bigger Heart!

Volunteering Opportunities for Teens and Adults

Therapeutic Riding of the OzarksA perfect opportunity if you enjoy horses and children! This can offer great experience if you are considering physical therapy as a career path.

(Minimum of 1 hour per week for up to 8 weeks)

Homeless Connection The annual Homeless Count will be July 27. Volunteers needed as hosts, help with setup, serve refreshments, survey takers and people to assist in finding homeless people.

(One day of time)

Help needed for Emergency Shelters for Winter 2011-2012 at Pathways UMC and East Sunshine Church. Opportunities include transporting guests to the shelters, overnight stays at the shelter or assistance with routine duties including light paperwork/record-keeping, replenishing food supply and assisting with laundry.

(requirements are flexible and vary)

Connections Handyman Services (CHS)A few good painters to help assist in painting the interior of a home.

(One day of time)

Long-Term Care OmbudsmanCurrently looking for Resident Advocates for those living in long-term care homes. As a volunteer, you would visit an assigned home weekly to visit with residents and listen to any concerns, provide residents with information on their rights and reporting your observations of the home.

(1 hour per week)

Top 10 reasons for

Volunteering 1 Add new meaning to

your life.

2 Meet new people.

3 Enjoy new experiences.

4 Explore new vistas.

5 Add sunshine to someone’s day.

6 Feel good about yourself.

7 Stay young at heart.

8 Teach others.

9 Better your community.

10 Enrich your life.

get involved in our Community!

Volunteer Opportunities for Groups

Leap of Faith Mentor Groups

Teams of four or five people to help mentor a family for a six month period helping them to make a new start after completing a transitional training program.

(2 hours every two weeks for six months)

Adopt-a-Caseworker

You and your group can be an important part of a foster child’s life by helping to fulfill specific needs for them and the foster family through the caseworker. This is very flexible based upon your groups time and ability to help meet the specific needs. Family needs typically include items such as car seats, furniture, safety proofing items and cleaning supplies.

(varies based upon need of adopted caseworker)

Volunteer Opportunities for Adults 55 and Older

RSVP

Currently looking for van drivers to transport RSVP volunteers to and from their volunteer work stations. A valid Missouri Driver’s License and a clean driving record. Other volunteer opportunities are also available!

(2-6 hours per week)

Helping the Community as a Family

As a family project, consider when you are on your next shopping trip helping a family or child in need. When you are purchasing some new items for your families summer outings, ask your children to pick out something for a foster child to utilize at the Kid’s Clothes Closet. Or, when at the grocery store, ask your children to pick out a few items for a family that doesn’t have enough to eat. Not only will you be helping area families, but you will be showing your children how to help!

life TOGETHER! 9

Money Saving Fun for Kids! Don’t forget the most fun activities can be the messiest and don’t have to cost a lot. Here are some tried-and-true recipes that are sure to add giggles and smiles to the faces of all!

1. GAK: In 1 bowl, mix 1 cup of warm water with 2 tsp. of Borax. In another bowl, mix 2 cups of glue with 1-1/12 cups of water. Blend the two mixtures together and feel free to add food coloring for different shades.

2. Sidewalk Chalk: Mix 2 tablespoons powdered tempera, 3 parts water, and 6 parts plaster of paris. Pour mixture into a greased toilet paper tube and let harden. When it has become hard, peel off the paper and enjoy.

3. “Goop”: Mix cornstarch with water until it’s pasty consistency. Enjoy the gooey texture as it melts through your fingers.

4. Scented Play dough: Mix 3 cups flour, 1-1/2 cups salt, 1/4 cup oil, 1 cup water, and 1 packet of drink mix (Kool Aid) in a bowl. Knead together and smell the wonderful scents as you play.

5. Shaving Cream Pictures: Give each child a piece of aluminum foil and a squirt of shaving cream (whipped cream works great for toddlers). Encourage children to smear the cream around and use their fingers to draw pictures or practice writing their name.

For more information or to make a gift, please contact

Nicole Piper, Director 417-887-3545

1910 E. Meadowmere Springfield, MO 65804

www.CCOzarks.org

Same Agency – New Name!CCRR has a new name – Child Care Aware of Southern Missouri! This name change is a direct result to further

align them with their National and Missouri organization. In addition, with the new name, Child Care Aware of Southern

Missouri has expanded to 10 more counties in Southern Missouri. Get additional details at www.ccozarks.org!

Child Care Provider Appreciation Day is May 6, 2011

Child Care Aware® of Southern Missouri would like to thank all child care programs in our region for the care you provide to families and children each and every day. Because of your dedication to the early childhood field, families can rest easy knowing their child will be safe while getting their developmental needs met, AND you are also contributing to a more productive workforce which fuels the nation’s economy! Thank you!!!!!

If you have a child care provider in your life please take time to thank them too!

Amanda George (Avon Representative); Askinosie Chocolate; Auto Magic, LLC; Basket Case; Branson Towers; Christian Publishers Outlet; Dickerson Park Zoo; Discovery Center; Edible Arrangements; Fitness 19; Flowerama; Fruity Land, Self-Serve Frozen Yogurt & Custard; Hard Luck Dinner; Hollywood Theaters; Hollywood Wax Museum; IMAX Entertainment Center; JMark Business Solutions; Keeter Center; KWFC Radio; Lambert’s Café; Lifeway Christian Stores; Local Flavor Café; Pine Mountain Theater; Ride the Ducks; Schaffitzel’s Flowers & Greenhouses; Schlotskys; Smith’s Restaurant; Sports Clip; Springfield Cardinals; Springfield Massage Works; Springfield Little Theatre; Stained Glass Theatre; Star Bucks; Thurman’s Lodge; Titanic Museum; The Tower Club

Administrative Professional’s Day Celebration LuncheonSponsored by the Council of Churches at Highland Springs

“Planting the Seeds of Hope” Special Speaker, Jody Glazner, Student Ministries Coordinator of North Point Church, Springfield MO was the guest speaker for this event. In her daily duties, she gets to do a bit of everything and enjoys the challenge of fulfilling multiple roles within her department. Jody has a passion for people and loves seeing them connect in a real way with Jesus. Jody spoke to a group of Administrative Professionals in the community about ways to stay encouraged in our “everyday office jobs.”

Special thanks to the following sponsors for making this event a success!

This was a great day to step out of the

office and have some fun!

Thank you to ALL our Administrative Professionals that

serve throughout the community!

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Thank you to our generous grant making partners. Your support is appreciated and vital to the services of CCO!

Abilities First

Community Foundation of the Ozarks

Rotary Club of Springfield – Southeast

Greene County Senior Citizens Fund

Wal-Mart

Festival of Sharing

Missouri Foundation for Health

Ozarks Food Harvest

On the Road AgainA few days out of each month you will find CCFP staff hitting the road as early as 3:30 am. With the responsibility of overseeing 55 counties in the state, CCFP Staff are required to view meal services at the nearly 350 child care facilities they service. State and Federal regulations require that each facility receive at least 3 home visits each year. Staff are required to view different meals at each visit during a year.

With many child care providers serving breakfast as early as 6:30am to accommodate before school children, CCFP staff are required to arrive at the facility a few minutes prior to the meal service.

CCFP staff are also required to view evening meals for those providers that offer late evening or overnight care. So for CCFP staff that could mean not arriving back home until 8 or 9 pm.

CCFP Director Vicki McMillen said all of her staff understands this responsibility comes with the job and are very dedicated employees.

Some of the CCFP staff are either previous child care facility providers or daycare employees. This makes for a great team effort with providers.

While making a home visit, staff enjoy intermingling with the children. We love quizzing children on their favorite foods and encourage them to try new foods. It’s amazing how many children will remember our conversations and can’t wait to share their food adventures on our next visit.

CCFP staff spend time at each visit giving training and encouragement to the providers. We appreciate each and every one our child care providers and recognize the much needed service they provide in our communities.

Child Care Food Program Vicki McMillen, Director

1531 E. Sunshine, E-1 Springfield, MO 65804

417-865-8427 or 1-800-818-6812 ccfpfood.com

Child Care Food Program (CCFP)

David Pointer, CFOChristine Moses & Mark Struckhoff, CCO

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NEWS FROM DAyBREAKDaybreak Adult Day Care is one of more than 4,600 adult day services centers across the country, a 35% increase since 2002. Adult day service (ADS) centers are key providers of long-term care services in the United States. Our services include health monitoring, socialization, and assistance with personal activities. This enables consumers to remain in their homes while receiving needed care in a supportive, professionally staffed, community-based setting. Daybreak is among 80% of adult day services centers with a nursing professional on staff, and among 60% who offer case management services. Our activities include Bowling and Zoo trips, Branson shows and picnics at Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield.

We thank Wesley United Methodist Church’s Prayer Shawl Ministry for the beautiful shawls and lap-robes personally knitted for Daybreak consumers. During the recent Mission Blitz, over two dozen Wesley UMC members power-washed the outside and painted the inside of Daybreak. Thank you, Wesley UMC!

We greatly appreciate the financial support from Abilities First, Community Foundation of the Ozarks, its collaborators as well as parents and guardians of our consumers.

Working Together Creates a A New Beginning

A WW-II veteran’s widow, and her son live in a modest house which needs a little TLC. Connections Handyman Services (CHS) was asked by the Health Department to come in and stabilize a front porch area to keep it from caving in and hurting someone. On closer examination CHS

also learned that the roof had already caved in on the back porch and over the bathroom area in the middle of the house. More than stabilization was needed to repair the house! CHS partners with a variety of organizations to put together a project that is beyond the scope, both financially and volunteer wise, of any one single organization.

The Urban Neighborhood Alliance (UNA) is working with the homeowner for the roof replacement through a special loan program. These loans are typically forgiven over a period of time based on the homeowner’s income. CHS will work with a couple of contractors to get a competitive bid and oversee their work as well as doing or directing the rest of the home repair that will get done.

The project got underway with the Wesley UMC Annual Mission Blitz in April. Once the project is underway, major structural repairs will make way for a new roof, plumbing, doors, reinforced insulation and new storm windows for the home. Upon completion, CHS hopes to have a few volunteers to help paint the interior of the house.

CHS will rely on the UNA to pay for the roof. CHS will fund part of the work with grant money from a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and a Missouri Housing Trust Fund grant. A lot of the interior finish work will be funded by Realtors® Helping People, the outreach part of the Greater Springfield Board of Realtors. Of course, the wonderful volunteers will come from churches; Wesley UMC, Peace Lutheran, the Ash Grove Ministerial Alliance, and folks like YOU.

Daybreak Adult Daycare Rick Stephenson, Director

1461 E Seminole Springfield, Mo 65804

417-881-0133 CCOzarks.org

For more information, contact:

Connections Handyman ServicesRichard Virnig, Director

417-862-3586627 N. Glenstone

Springfield, MO 65802ccozarks.org

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RSVP, Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, is the matching of time, talents, and experience of over 1698 volunteers in 125 not-for-profit and healthcare agencies in our community. A virtual smorgasbord of volunteer opportunities exists, challenging persons from all walks of life to get involved, and they are! Volunteers have given over 183,833 hours of service in many different capacities: from assisting with mailings, being a Reading Buddy, Homebound Shoppers, driving one of the RSVP vans, staffing the information desk at hospitals and the court house to ushering at Juanita K. Hammons Hall to delivering homebound meals. The common denominator is a willingness to be involved and be a part of a “Good Community.”

RSVP has the privilege of coordinating these many activities to make the greatest impact on the real needs of our community. Some of the significant accomplishments of 2010 include our Reading Buddies with 176 volunteers who read with over 1,000 kindergarten through third grade students in four counties. Also RSVP Transportation, with 27 drivers, transports volunteers to and from their volunteer jobs, and our Homebound Shopper volunteers go and shop for individuals who cannot navigate through the store.

Some new opportunities we are offering include Missouri Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), where volunteers will be trained to help seniors protect their personal information and empower them to prevent healthcare fraud. RSVP is looking for volunteers for the SMP organization. As a SMP Volunteer Specialist you will work in your community to help stop the over $60 billion dollars lost to Medicare fraud and abuse each year. Trainings for volunteers will begin in June so sign up now!

For more information about this opportunity please call Sharon or Bev at 862-3595

Also Ronald McDonald House needs volunteers to help with mailings, and Safe At Home is looking for volunteers to help with fundraisers.

RSVP volunteers set a good example for persons of all ages. They realize that each person has something to contribute

in the creation of the “Good Community” and they make a conscious choice to find their niche. As the Council of Churches mission states, “doing

together what we can do best

together.” We can’t do it

without you, thank you for your

support!

RSVP is seeking

donations or sponsors for our 37th

Volunteer Recognition Dinner Event to be held

on September 13th 2011. We would like to give

area Businesses and Friends the opportunity to support this

event. your generosity will help us honor the over 400

volunteers that will attend this special dinner and program.

For more information about donations or becoming a

sponsor contact Sharon Bradford, Director,

627 N Glenstone, Springfield MO 65802 or

call 417-862-3595

For more information about the programs

offered through RSVP, or to make a gift

or volunteer, please contact

Sharon Bradford, Director 627 N. Glenstone

Springfield, MO 65802 417-862-3595

www.CCOzarks.org

Follow Us on FaceBook - www.facebook.com/RSVPSpringfieldMO

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Volunteer Training Conference HeldThe Missouri Long-Term Care Ombudsman Agency held its annual Volunteer Training Conference on March 21-22, 2011, at the Hilton Garden Inn, Columbia, Mo. During the conference banquet, volunteers giving at least 20 years of service were recognized. Each volunteer received a commemorative paperweight and a proclamation from Governor Jeremiah W. (Jay) Nixon.

Irene Mosher, Reeds Spring, MO, Iva Rust, Houston, MO and Charlotte VanBibber, Mtn. View, MO were all recognized. All of these volunteers

feel their service to the residents is priceless and very rewarding. Charlotte, a retired nurse who just celebrated her 90th birthday said, “I’m just glad that I am able to do it.”

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Agency is recruiting volunteers to serve as Resident Advocates for those living in long-term care homes. The job will include visiting an assigned home weekly, building a relationship with residents, providing resident’s information on their rights and reporting observations of conditions in the home and any concerns shared by residents to Ombudsman Program staff. Staff will provide ombudsman service, if needed. To apply, please call 417-862-3598 or email us at cpayne@ccozarks.org.

Long-Term Care ombudsman Program

“I was sick and you visited me…” (Matthew 25:36)

Follow all the news of Council of Churches of the Ozarks on facebook www.facebook.com/pages/council-of-churches

Long-Term Care Ombudsman

Connie Payne, Director 627 N. Glenstone

Springfield, MO 65802 417-862-3598

CCOzarks.org

Left to Right: Carol Scott, Mo State Long-Term Care

Ombudsman; Margaret Donnelly, Mo DHSS Dept.

Director; Charlotte VanBibber, 20 year volunteer; and Celesta

Hartgraves, Mo Senior & Disability Services Director

2011 Volunteer Ombudsman Conference Front Row: Lana Anderson, Ina Goddard,

Sandy James and Charlotte VanBibberSecond Row: Darrel Smith, Bonnie Jones,

Don Lott, Connie Payne, Carolyn Alexander, Pat Felton and Norma Stillings

UTILITy ASSISTANCE WHEN AVAILABLEOACAC ......................................447-0554 The Kitchen ...............................837-1512

RENT ASSISTANCE WHEN AVAILABLECrosslines ......................... 869-0563 The Kitchen ..................... 837-1500 OACAC ............................ 447-0554 Salvation Army ................ 862-5509

FOODAngel Food Ministries...............1-977-366-3646 Crosslines ..............................................869-0563 The Kitchen ..........................................837-1512 Salvation Army .....................................862-5509

FREE MEALS TO PUBLICHarbor House, 636 Booneville ...........862-5509

Help Is Available!

Project Share through City Utilities helps to support OACAC for

Utility Assistance. More at cityutilities.net

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pictures TOGETHER!

Find more photos on our Facebook Page or CCOzarks.org

AFC Appreciation Dinner

CCO Annual Meeting

Clergy Luncheon

Interfaith Gathering

Crosslines Pantry Sponsors Lunch

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Life Together! is a quarterly publication of the Council of Churches of the Ozarks, designed to inform readers of current community needs and service agencies activities and recognize donors and volunteers. Life Together! is mailed without charge to anyone interested in the Council of Churches of the Ozarks.

Council of Churches of the Ozarks Dorsey E. Levell Ministry Center of the Ozarks 627 N. Glenstone, Springfield, MO 65802 MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 3947, Springfield, MO 65808-3947 Phone: 417.862.3586 Email: ccozarks@CCOzarks.org Fax: 417.862.2129 Website: www.CCOzarks.org

Central Office Staff Paula Austin • Advancement Assistant • ext. 233 Romona Baker • Resource Coordinator for Homeless Services • ext. 225 Leslie Boughton • Grant Writer • ext. 235 Krista Crumpley • Receptionist Barbara Gardner • Executive Assistant/HR • ext. 224 Janet Garoutte • Receptionist Rick George • Director of Finance and Operations • ext. 232 Christine Moses • Director of Marketing & Development • ext. 238 Mark Struckhoff • Executive Director

The Council of Churches Foundation Larry Freund, Interim President Phone: 417.839.7450

Council of Churches of the Ozarks PO Box 3947 Springfield, MO 65808-3947

NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE

PAID SPRINGFIELD, MO

PERMIT #772

Congratulations! Sondra Uzzell

2011 Honoree of the SBJ’s 40 under 40!

Sondra is the Director of Ambassadors for Children - Helping Local Foster Children!

Find out more about Sondra and what she does for our community at Ambassdors4Children.org

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