 "We have had a really good late turnout and are up to right around
500 volunteers, which is above where we were at going into the last
two years' project dates," said Dustin Fulton, preaching minister at
Jefferson Street Christian Church and public relations coordinator
for TFL. "However, due to the amount of labor involved in some of
the bigger projects this year, we still need at least 100 more
volunteers to complete all of the projects."Fulton adds that if
they have that turnout, they won't have to say no to any of the
approved project requests.
Anyone who wants to volunteer can simply show up at Latham Park
on Saturday starting at 8:30 a.m., and they will be assigned to a
specific project. Volunteers are also asked to bring any tools they
might be able to use on projects, such as gloves, hand tools,
ladders and especially trucks.
Those who have signed up ahead of time but have not heard from
their project leader by Saturday morning should go to Latham Park to
get their project assignment.
Also, any participants wishing to purchase this year's T-shirt
can do so at the park for $10 each.
This year there are several midsize to large-scale projects.
"We will be constructing two good-sized wheelchair ramps for
people who need help with home accessibility," said Norm Newhouse,
Together for Lincoln president.
There are also more than 30 weatherization projects, which
typically involve installing multiple windows in a home. Volunteers
on Saturday will also be painting, assisting with basic electrical
and plumbing repairs, and even visiting nursing home residents,
among many other things.
Fulton encourages families to come and serve together.
"I think it's great for children to serve with their parents and
siblings and experience how rewarding it is to give back to those
throughout the community," Fulton said.
[to top of second column] |
There is also an opportunity to be involved on Sunday night
during the community worship service in the Hargrove Chapel at
Lincoln Christian University. Several of the songs during the
service will be led by a community choir. Those wishing to be part
of the choir can come to the LCU chapel from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday for
a rehearsal.
The 7 p.m. worship service will feature former WAND-TV sports
anchor Ron Rector. Rector is currently the campus minister for South
Pointe Church in Decatur, a new church start sponsored by Grace
United Methodist Church, where he has served on the ministry staff
since March 2010.
Following his 13 years at WAND-TV (1989-2002), Rector served as
area representative for the Greater Decatur Fellowship of Christian
Athletes. He was also pastor of Maroa Christian Church for seven
years. He is a 2011 graduate of the Lincoln Christian University
Seminary.
Rector says he can't wait to share how the Lord is using the
disability of multiple sclerosis in his life for God's glory.
An offering will be collected at the end of Sunday night's
service.
"We have never done this in previous years," said Fulton, "but
basically everything that is given will be matched dollar for dollar
by the Woods Foundation as seed money for next year's TFL, as well
as for ongoing needs such as wheelchair ramps that have become
year-round projects for TFL volunteers."
The Woods Foundation in Lincoln has agreed to match individual
and businesses donations given between now and the end of the year,
up to $10,000.
[By DARA BROCKMEYER] |
