Sept 15 President's Message

Posted by Ron Searfoss 
on Sep 15, 2015
 
Jim Byrnes, the CEO of the Allentown Rescue Mission, visited Morning Star last Thursday.
  
Jim introduced ARM with a very dynamic video covering the many phases of help and support provided to their clients. The Gateway Emergency Shelter has a 66 bed occupancy and is open 365 days a year.  It serves over 44,000 meals a year and provides over 22,000 bed nights per year. This is the role of the ARM in the perception of most people.
 
Jim went on to expound upon their Plan For Change which transitions from Intake in the Gateway Center through the Christian Living Program to the Clean Team, the Graduation Program and Independence for clients who complete the programs.  The move to the second floor with some 40 beds is a real “hand-up” for clients who dedicate themselves to fulfilling the Plan For Change. The ultimate goal is an end to their homeless living with connections to a home church, full-time job, housing, bank account and maintaining sobriety. For more information please contact allentownrescuemission.org.
 
‘Bag Stuffing’ for Our 25th Anniversary 5K/10K race is on September 17th. Race Committee Chair, Wayne Achey, indicates sign-ups of runners has already surpassed the level at this time last year. We need MSR Rotarians help in getting sponsors and prizes for the race. In addition to gift certificates, raffle prizes, etc. we need pop-up tents and more volunteers for registration, food prep, course marshals, parking, etc. Everyone, please come and bring family and friends - there is a place for you! A Volunteer Sign-Up sheet will circulate during the meeting for the race itself on Saturday, September 26th.
Registration opens at 6:30 am, with the race starting promptly at 8:00 and Awards Ceremony & Raffle Prize Giveaway at 9:30. “All Hands on Deck” - this is open to family, friends, students (community service anyone?) etc. Many people will be needed to ensure the success of this major event. (Even if not signed up in advance, please come to help!) Sponsorship info/form is available in the Downloads section at www.morningstarrotary.org with no sign-in needed. Please reach out to businesses, organizations, friends, family and colleagues.
 
Please join us this Thursday for ‘Bag Stuffing’ for Our 25th Anniversary 5K/10K race!
 
“Be a Gift to the World”
President Ron