Presidential Debate Heads to The Cov!
Posted by Sue Wagener | Filed under Uncategorized
Many of our youth have questions about the upcoming presidential race and those questions were answered on Monday by Shannon Garth – Rhodes a representative from President Obama’s campaign and Lauren Heger a staff of Mitt Romney’s campaign.
What an awesome experience to have our youth engaged and actively seeking answers that will possibly influence their decision on which candidate they will vote for in the November 6th election. The youth asked various questions including “What are the plans for job creations?” and “How does each candidate deal with discriminatory practices?” Will they vote for President Barack Obama or Candidate Mitt Romney? We do not know the answer to that question, however, based on the questions asked to the representatives, they WILL vote!
Volunteering Is Good For The Soul!
Posted by Sue Wagener | Filed under Uncategorized
There is not a day that goes by that our youth never cease to amaze us! Although they have so many obstacles and hurdles to overcome, they remain committed to caring for others. Recently, the youth completed two projects – The Ronald McDonald House and The Neighborhood Stabilization Project – in which they dedicated their time in helping families of sick children and beautifying the neighborhood in which Covenant House Missouri is located.
The youth took great pride in both events and embraced the opportunities to assist wherever needed. What is most exciting about the Ronald McDonald House volunteer project is that the youth get to showcase their project to several other youth programs this weekend. They will highlight the tour of Ronald McDonald House, the stories of hope and optimism the families presented, and the impact the volunteer project had on their lives.
To quote one of our youth, “Volunteering is easier than what people think. It’s the simple things that make you feel good about giving back”. What an amazing mind set to have when even in the midst of your own storm, you can reflect on giving back to others.
To learn more about the community service projects, please review the showcase post card below.
STOP HUMAN TRAFFICKING NOW!
Posted by Sue Wagener | Filed under Uncategorized
Human Trafficking is the act of violence, fraud or coercion for the purpose of sexual exploitation and/or forced labor. Last week, Tammie Belk, our Sr Director of Operations had the opportunity to speak with Mona Suliman and Ali Wolf of Traffic In Our Streets, about their current research efforts on how agencies are addressing the various forms of trafficking. They are traveling across the US to ultimately gain a better understanding of human trafficking, what methodologies are in place to address this issue, and conclude who is most at risk of being trafficked.
Their research complements the advocacy efforts of Covenant House International and all Covenant House Sites in bringing global attention to this matter. According to research findings, homeless and at risk youth are at a Greater risk of being trafficked because they lack fiscal and social supports thereby making them vulnerable to predators.
It is our intent to prevent this from happening by providing visible and accessible services to youth so they can veer from the streets and predators to a place of refuge and support.
We welcomed their insight and questions so that we can all gain ideas on how to magnify our efforts to end human trafficking!
To follow their road to research, go to http://www.trafficinourstreets.wordpress.com
To learn more about Covenant House Internationals efforts go to
http://www.covenanthouse.org/help-homeless-youth/human-trafficking
Posted by Sue Wagener | Filed under Uncategorized
Jason & Jeff
Yesterday, Ram’s player Jason Brown and his parents visited CHMO. They came bearing a truckload of amazing Christmas gifts for our youth but the best gift was Jason’s message of perseverance and pay it forward. He took time out of his incredibly busy schedule to tell our youth to keep following their dreams and staying focused on their goals. He also told them the only thing he wanted in return for his gifts was for them to “pay it forward.” He told them there are lots of mean and dark people out there, they don’t have to be one of them. He encouraged them to be kind and giving. Thank you Jason – you’re truly an inspiration to us all!
Signing Autographs
A note from one of our donors…
Posted by Sue Wagener | Filed under Uncategorized
What’s this?
Over the weekend, I was at Kohl’s looking for a nice white turtleneck sweater. I looked and looked, but I couldn’t find anything I liked. Then I thought about a red one, then a cute sweater tunic caught my eye, but there was no real love connection between me and any of these tops.
I was on my way out when I noticed a large display of fleece throws on sale for $4.16 each! I didn’t need one, but I can’t pass on a deal like that!!! Immediately I thought of Covenant House. So, I purchased 4 fleece throws and headed for the grocery store to do my shopping. “I can’t just send 4 fleece throws,” I thought to myself. How about some Christmas cookies? Yes, that will be nice. But perhaps I should send some toiletries or something, too. Toothbrushes! After all, those cookies are loaded with sugar. I can’t send toothbrushes without toothpaste. And it’s so cold outside; some lip balm would be a good idea too. And a travel pack of Kleenex, the cold air causes the sniffles. Now, I just needed 4 cute bags and then I was done. Until I got to thinking…just one more thing…a pair of gloves and a hat. Now I’m done. Now I’m ready to send these off to the Covenant House.
I don’t believe I stumbled on those fleece throws by accident. I believe it was God’s way of saying, “Michelle, you do not need any more clothes. Do something nice for someone in need.” I can’t argue with the Big Guy!
I have many blessings to count and to say thank you to God, I am sending these 4 gift bags for the Covenant House to use in whatever way is needed.
Merry Christmas and may God continue to bless you and those you love. And thank you for all the wonderful work you do! Michelle B.
