Scholarship Finalist: Chandler Key

March 23, 2021March 23, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

Chandler Key attends Briarwood Christian School in Birmingham, Ala.

At Briarwood, we bear the title “Christian” in the name of our school. Since we are a Christian school, we are held to a higher standard at all times. I view this standard of being a Christ follower as an opportunity and not a burden. Even though I cannot be perfect, I can strive to be my very best and demonstrate the love of Christ to those at school and those at other schools. Athletics has been my primary outlet to have an impact on others through my faith both on and off the field.

I have participated in school athletics since my junior high years at Briarwood. During my senior year, I was selected by my coach as the captain of the basketball team. As captain, I felt a huge obligation to represent Christ both on and off the court. Although most may not view the captain as a very important role, I wanted this role to be an opportunity to show Christ to my teammates and other teams by my sportsmanship. During practice and games, I tried to set an example by being one of the hardest workers on the court and giving 100% effort. In Colossians 3:23, we are commanded to work hardily as unto the Lord and not unto man, because we know it is the Lord Christ we are serving. During the games, I tried to represent Christ in multiple ways. Many times during games and practice, the situations get intense and the emotions run high. I believe small things can impact others during these situations. I did my best to guard my mouth from evil and encourage others instead. I made it a point to always be the first one there to help a teammate or an opponent up from the ground after a fall. These small acts of kindness during these situations help dispel the tension and demonstrate the love of Christ. Setting a Christ-like example by these small acts can cause others to wonder why someone would care enough to pick them up with a kind word or with a hand to get up off the court. Our ultimate example of selflessness and love for others was Christ demonstrating His own love for us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

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March 23, 2021March 23, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

Taylor Woodard attends Appalachian High School in Oneonta, Ala.

My faith in God throughout my high school career has been the most important structure and stronghold in my life. Whether I was in the classroom or on the softball field, He was always there keeping my mind right and my trust in Him strong. I participate in a program for elementary kids called the Big Brother Big Sister Organization. I have an assigned elementary student in fourth grade named Nolan. Every week I pull him out of his class and spend quality time with him. Although I have been blessed to have a loving home life, he has not. He did not grow up in church and did not know the Lord as I have come to know him. One week, right before Christmas, we were talking about all of our exciting plans for the holiday break. I told him one of my family’s traditions was reading the story of the birth of Jesus from the Bible right before going to sleep on Christmas Eve. He then asked who Jesus was and for me to tell him the story. My heart sank because I had no idea that he had never went to church, heard about the grace of God, and most importantly, did not have a relationship with the Lord. I told him many stories that day. I told him about the birth of Jesus Christ, the Crucifixion, David and Goliath, John the Baptist, the 10 lepers, and the love that God had for him. Nolan, being in fourth grade, sat in awe. He took it all in and listened to every word I said. Since then, we do a bible study every week and he learns a little more about God’s grace and love. I am beyond thankful to be in the Big Brother Big Sister Program and that I got to witness to someone who is very dear to me. My faith in Christ gave me the strength to tell Nolan about God’s word to him that day. I will forever be grateful for the relationship I have with the Lord and the strength that He has given me. My witness to Nolan has not only impacted my high school career, but my life as a Christian. My Christian faith has impacted me in so many ways in high school, but this is one time that will forever be close to my heart.

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March 23, 2021March 23, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

Alexandra Axtell Thompson High School — Alexandra Axtell attends Thompson High School in Alabaster, Ala.

My freshman year, I was struggling severely with my mental health. I lost sight of God and how much he cared for me. I was not sure if I was worthy of His love for a long time. After some time however, I began to notice the little things that God had created and wondered, if God can create and love every single thing on this Earth, that must mean he loves me too! After that, with the help of God, I began to dig myself out of the hole I had buried myself in. When I rediscovered God, my life changed for the better. I felt a weight lifted off of my shoulders and I felt at peace with myself. I realized that I am most definitely fearfully and wonderfully made in the eyes of God and I was seeing all the beautiful things about myself. Finding God again made me view the people in my high school differently as well. Suddenly, they were not who everyone perceived them to be. They had a past and a struggle that I knew nothing about. God helped me to understand that everyone else is fearfully and wonderfully made too! He increased my compassion for those in my high school. High school is difficult for everyone in many ways. God not only helped me see other people’s hurt but He helped me ease my hurt. High school isn’t the best time in life, but God helped me to figure out who I want to be.

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March 19, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

Cool Stuff

ShopWell Crosses — ShopWell offers great gift ideas all made by survivors of human trafficking and each sale furthers the Wellhouse mission. www.the-wellhouse.org/store.

Find great gifts for mom this Mother’s Day while helping local women in need. The products at ShopWell, a division of The WellHouse ministry, directly help survivors of human trafficking find hope for the future. Choose from beaded bracelets, necklaces and earrings as well as clay crosses, coffee mugs, hand-embossed cards and candles. Holly Bunn, Development Officer of the WellHouse emphasizes that all of the products are gifts for a good cause. All proceeds help the ministry live out its mission of honoring God “by rescuing and providing opportunities for restoration to female victims of human trafficking who have been sexually exploited.”

ShopWell Candle — ShopWell offers two types of candles in earthborn candle holders: the Precious candle (sugar cookie scent) and the Breakthrough candle (rain scent).

How do ShopWell & The WellHouse connect? Bunn explains that The WellHouse, located in Odenville, Ala., “gives a home to women who have been identified as victims of sex trafficking.” The organization offers a wide variety of spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical support services for the women who stay at the WellHouse. This includes individual and group therapy, Bible studies, and prayer time. The staff also helps the women plan for the future through exploring educational options and job opportunities. “ShopWell is the first step in working for the women,” Bunn explains, adding that they consider ShopWell a type of work therapy since the women are working with their hands and learning new skills to create the products. To view and purchase ShopWell products, visit www.the-wellhouse.org/store. You can also purchase ShopWell gifts at the Celebrate the Family Expo on May 8 the Pelham Civic Complex. Just stop by the ShopWell booth!

-Melissa Armstrong

March 25, 2021March 16, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

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Special Feature

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham(BBBS) is now offering virtual mentoring through its new e-mentoring program. The program launched last March during the pandemic and gave BBBS a way to continue its mission of creating and supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The initiatives of BBBS bolster self-esteem and work to improve the chances that the youth served will achieve success in their academic, social, and family lives. BBBS of Greater Birmingham operates under the vision that all youth achieve their full potential.

big brothers big sisters image of mentor call — Consider being a virtual mentor to a child in our community. Learn more at www.mentoralittle.com.

Given recent calls for social distancing, many Littles experience an exacerbation of the issues they regularly face, from societal barriers and opportunity gaps to poverty and identity-based discrimination. Consequently, it is incumbent upon Big Brothers Big Sisters to continue fulfilling their mission by being there for the youth they serve. This new virtual mentoring program ensures BBBS remains a visible ally, for mentoring means that they will not have to face life’s challenges alone.

E-mentoring involves creating one-to-one relationships virtually through phone calls, video chat, and more. Youth in our communities are paired with volunteers seeking to mentor within a more modern, current platform. Volunteers serve as mentors from their phones and computers at a minimum of 30 minutes each week. This partnership allows volunteers with limited schedules the ability to give back while working with a busy schedule. Additionally, although it takes place virtually, the E-mentoring program is not limited to just chats on the phone. Match Support Specialist will help provide virtual activities for each match. Such as online cooking classes, dance lessons, homework help, virtual story times, and more.

As CEO Sue Johnson states, “Our priority and what distinguishes Big Brothers Big Sisters is our commitment to providing long-term mentoring, resulting in proven positive educational and social outcomes, improving kids’ chances to succeed”. Currently, BBBS has over 150 Littles in need of a mentor. With mentoring now more accessible and easier than ever, you can become a mentor today. To learn more about volunteering or to donate visit: www.mentoralittle.com. †

March 25, 2021March 8, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

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Parenting Points

Brought to you by: Community Partner Covene, www.convenenow.com

Our nation and every family are facing one of the most serious epidemics in history.We’re battling a disease that strikes more people than cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Even worse, it’s deadly, killing more people than car accidents, murders, or suicide. If you’re a parent, imagine that one of your kids was at risk of this potentially fatal disease, and you find out that it’s treatable! Would you get educated on the sickness? And get some help? What if you found out the disease was preventable?

This disease is substance use disorder, and it strikes 1 in 7 Americans. It normally starts during the teenage years: 90% of people with addiction started to drink or use before the age of 18. All teenagers face temptation and peer pressure with alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs, and it’s common for them to want to “fit in” with their friends. Many also deal with issues such as insecurity, anxiety, or depression which can amplify their desire to feel better, even if only for a short while. Plus, teenagers’ mental and physical make-up increase the risk of substance abuse.

In the last year, the danger has intensified. With COVID-19’s negative impact on the mental health of virtually everyone, teenagers included, it is imperative that parents do what they can to help their children not only survive, but thrive, during this historically-challenging pandemic.

But there is good news. STEPS Proactive Parenting, a Birmingham faith-based non-profit organization that focuses on helping parents raise healthy families, is announcing PACES for Parents, an online learning center with products that help parents protect their kids from substance abuse and other harmful issues.

The unique approach of PACES for Parents integrates emotional, spiritual, and personal principles into easy-to-understand steps. As parents put these concepts into practice, their children will not only be safer, but happier as well. Through a flexible set of online resources, PACES works to increase awareness and provide education to parents. With training delivered in the comfort of one’s home, this program has adapted well to the challenges of the COVID pandemic. If you are a parent, there are now steps you can take so your son or daughter can remain safe and happy during the teenage years, and you can sleep well at night.

But it’s up to you to take the next right step.

-Steve C. Ward

Executive Director, STEPS Ministries

Author of STEPS: A Daily Journey to a Better Life

STEPS Ministries provides training, coaching, and online content to equip parents to help their kids improve their lives, grow closer to God, and prevent addiction.

-Brought to you by: Community Partner, Convene

Local Chair, Harris Wheeler; [email protected]

205-936-7038 www.ConveneNow.com

March 8, 2021March 5, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

father with daughter in consultation with doctor i G2ZQ7S4

Healthy Living

Parents can understandably be concerned when their child doesn’t feel well and has a fever. But how high is too high? When should a parent treat a fever at home and when should they seek medical help?

Dr. Mark Baker is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Children’s of Alabama and works in the Emergency Department. He says a fever is anything higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. “Fever is the body’s response to an infection,” he says. “Fevers are generally well tolerated in healthy children, especially if they are up to date with recommended childhood vaccines.”

Dr. Baker says there are instances when a parent should take a fever seriously and seek medical attention. These include when a child has a temperature higher than 100.4 AND:

Is 3 months of age or younger
Has serious underlying medical problems
Experiences pain or other concerns

If any of these conditions exist, parents are encouraged to take their child to the Emergency Department. If a parent is unsure how serious the situation may be, their child’s pediatrician is available to help. Even after hours, a pediatrician’s office has a 24/7 on call line.

Dr. Baker says in an otherwise healthy child, a fever can usually be treated at home with either ibuprofen or acetaminophen, (Motrin or Tylenol). He says it is best to stick with one form of treatment and follow the dosage instructions. If the over the counter medicine isn’t helping, Dr. Baker advises parents to call their child’s pediatrician or go to the Emergency Department.

Parents can also make sure their child is more comfortable by dressing them in lightweight clothing and covering them with a light sheet or blanket. It’s very important that the child gets plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. A sponge bath or wet cloth may help lower their temperature and make them feel more comfortable.

All kids get fevers, and in most cases recover completely within a few days. But if you ever have concerns about your child’s well-being, it’s best to contact their doctor for guidance. Information provided by Children’s of Alabama, learn more at www.childrensofal.org.

January 12, 2022March 3, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

Mission Makers

When William Roberts received the keys to the little red truck in Brother Bryan Mission’s parking lot he broke down in tears. “No one has ever treated me with such love and kindness,” said Roberts. William came to Brother Bryan Mission after years of drug and alcohol abuse. He joined the New Life Fellowship Program and shortly afterward rededicated his life to Christ.

Since then Roberts has seen God answer many prayers, the most important of which is, “I’m now on speaking terms with my daughter,” says Roberts. Obtaining a good job was another answer to prayer but he needed transportation. So If a little red truck passes you on the road it may be Roberts who is now driving with a purpose. As he explains, “I now have a purpose in life thanks to God and the staff at Brother Bryan Mission.”

For more information visit bbmission.com or contact Daniel at [email protected] or 205-322-0092. Read here how you can help the Mission bring hope to many more individuals. †

February 26, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

bigstock Young batter hitting the ball 297519895

Education Extra

Focused on improving children’s lives across the Birmingham area, the ZeroZero Foundation will provide children with sports-related enrichment and educational opportunities through several key programs and events. Rooted in the Birmingham community, ZeroZero believes every child’s potential extends beyond their athletic ability. The foundation aims to broaden a child’s perspective and identify their passions to help children achieve a career path in sports. The foundation’s mission is to leverage the diverse opportunities of sports to enrich the lives of others: one child, one family, one community at a time.

Founder Caleb Schmidt started the foundation after seeing three critical areas that the sports industry lack; access, inspiration and aspiration. A typical family with kids who play sports spends about $700 a year on fees, equipment and more, but some families spend up to $35,000 a year. This financial gap does not allow families of lower socioeconomic status to provide the same opportunities as other more financially advantaged families. The sports industry also lacks inspiration; only four percent of children who graduate from high school will receive an athletic scholarship to play sports for their college or university. While many children dream of playing sports at the collegiate level, it is not feasible for all. ZeroZero wants children to know that a career in sports is still possible even without playing at the collegiate level. Finally, of top roles in sports outside of playing professionally, white individuals comprise most of the industry. The ZeroZero Foundation aims to close these gaps in the sports industry because when the score starts at 0-0, the foundation can create equitable opportunities for success.

“We are thrilled to start making a difference in the lives of countless children in the Birmingham area,” said Schmidt. “As someone who believes in sports and is passionate about the industry, it is time for a change. We need to create equitable opportunities for all children interested in sports and show them that a career in sports is more than just playing professionally.” ZeroZero will focus on three phases; entry, enrich and enhance. Each phase will provide unique opportunities to children from ages 6 to 18 that they would not otherwise have the ability to access. Reggie Torbor, ZeroZero board member, said, “I was fortunate enough to see the power sports had in my life, but not all children had or will have the same opportunities I had. ZeroZero can help bridge the gap and allow more children who are passionate about sports with the opportunity to enter the sports industry other than through their athletic ability.” Learn more at www.zerozerofoundation.org. †

February 26, 2021 by Laurie Stroud

bigstock Mixed race girl spending time 367349863

Parenting Points

When we typically think about missions, we think of teams and missionaries going to take the Gospel to the world. In today’s world of COVID, quarantines, and lockdowns, the opportunity to do a family mission trip this year may not be an option. However, God still reigns and His work in the world is not paused by pandemics. In Luke’s description of Jesus’ missional marching orders in Acts 1:8 ESV, we are called to be Jesus’ “witnesses in Jerusalem in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Christian families are to be on mission to the neighborhood, to the city, to the United States, and to the nations. We are to witness by sharing the greatness of Jesus’ grace and showing His mercy to others. In 2021, where serving as a family on mission looks different than it has in the past, here are three things you can do to be a part of Jesus’ missional call:

1. Look for Everyday Moments to Serve and Share with Others. We have opportunities every day to serve and share Jesus with others that we often miss. You can have a Gospel conversation with your neighbor. You can look for an elderly person in your church who your family can serve. Though relational connections may be temporarily masked and socially distant, we can still serve and share with others.

2. Connect to Kids Around the World through Child Sponsorship. Imagine connecting your child through a relationship with a kid the same age around the world. Through ministries like World Vision and Compassion International, your family can be involved as an encourager and prayer partner for a kid in poverty on the other side of the world.

3. Pray for the Unreached People Groups of the World. There are over 3,000,000,000 people around the world who will be born, live, and die without hearing the gospel. As families, we can join in praying for unreached people groups and missionaries on the front lines taking the good news to them. With the Joshua Project Unreached People Group of the Day phone app, you and your family can know the names of these groups, hear their story, and pray for them.

God is at work on His mission in the world. Let’s look for ways for our families to join Him in this work!

-Dr. Ben Birdsong

Missions Minister at Christ Church Birmingham

Writer and Speaker

www.benbirdsong.com

Scholarship Finalist: Chandler Key

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