Shao Lin classes at the Mid Town Family Resource Center

Based on his participation this summer in a career day, Jason Knapp has volunteered to come two times a month to teach Shao Lin classes here at the Mid Town Family Resource Center. We have had two sessions so far, and it is creating a positive stir around here; with an interesting mix of people showing interest. This is a generous offering by Jason, and we will see what becomes of it, as we continue to seek ways to provide opportunities for various ages of neighborhood youth and families.

WVU-P Vendor Fair this past Wednesday

Ashley and Missy attended a fair at WVU-P this Wednesday, where various community groups were connecting with the college community, to show what was available as far as volunteering opportunities and similar purposes. Ashley reports this was a great "recruiting" opportunity, in that many expressed interest in helping our agency's work with area children and families. We are proud we give people so many different ways to help us!! This was a great example of community engagement!

Judge Gustke's funeral

The funeral for Judge Gustke was held Wednesday evening at Leavitt's in downtown Parkersburg. Many dignitaries gave brief remarks, focusing on the Judge's legacy as a thorough judge who cared for the people that came before him, and for the role he played. Many mentioned the particular care he had for the young people in the juvenile system. Two speakers were people who had, in their childhood, come before the judge, and how he showed his commitment and concern for each case, and particularly "went to bat" for young people. This was a powerful celebration of his legacy, and we think his family was pleased with the outpouring of sentiment. The agency was designated to receive gifts in memory of the Judge, and for this we are very deeply appreciative.

Board Member of CHS visiting today

We always enjoy the visits from the CHS board members to our site. The agency really promotes these dedicated folks getting around to the sites, to see the agency at work. We like to share our excitement at the agency's mission, and how we put it into play here at our site.

Shine and Dine- the music's fine- revisited

Tomorrow, October 3rd, is the re-scheduled date for the Shine and Dine fundraiser for the RHY programs. Noon to 4 pm, will find Parkersburg with a sunny fall day, great for a Saturday of car washing, grilling, and live local musical talent. (I am writing this optimistically on Friday when it is rainy and dreary). Lisa and the rest of the crew have been organizing like crazy for this new, innovative event. We'll be eager to report on it after tomorrow!

Lights On After School National Day - Oct 22

Thursday, October 22nd, we will be participating in a national day of awareness for the value and importance of quality after school care for America's children. All over the country groups will be acknowledging this day, and trying to raise awareness of how communities and government entities could further support after school programs. We will be giving more details closer to the time, but will be tying it in to our monthly Family Night here at the Mid Town Family Resource Center.

John Prine Tribute - a week (and a day!) away!!!!!

The 7th annual John Prine (Birthday) Tribute show, as a benefit for Children's Home Society of WV-Parkersburg is a week (and a day) away. This year's show is at 6 Pence Pub on 7th St. Local musicians play sets of songs by John Prine. There are contests and prizes throughout the evening. We ask a $5 donation. I have a good group of musicians lined up (who all donate their time). We have the musical tribute shows throughout the year, under the umbrella of the "Americana Music Series" but this is the grandaddy of them, because John Prine has always been my favorite singer songwriter. We started doing these as "low risk" fund raisers, and just because of my love for live music, and getting people together around music. They've really become a "community" in and of themselves, with many musicians participating in all of the events, and looking eagerly forward to the next, and sharing fun stories of the past events. Check out my other blog: stevetuck.blogspot.com which focuses more on the music side interests, for more details about the Prine Tribute, and future ideas.