Lisa's Ministry Report

Asian Help Services held their annual dinner October 3 at Broadway United Methodist Church. The dinner included delicious Korean dishes. It was a good gathering of persons that have passion for ministry. I was honored to be seated with Rev. Karen Devaisher and Indianapolis Mayor and Mrs. Ballard. Rev. Devaisher, pastor at Avon United Methodist Church, talked to me about the mission giving of Avon church that has increased significantly in recent years.

Mrs. Baik honored the English teachers that have taught classes in the past year. The AHS Board has worked tirelessly promoting the work of Mrs. Baik and her volunteers within the Asian community in Indianapolis and surrounding counties. AHS provides English Classes, counseling, employment and medical interpretation. If you wish to connect with this ministry, you may call the AHS office, 317-924-4827.

East Tenth UM Children and Youth serves the community around 2327 East 10th Street with care for infants through high school students. The East Tenth annual event was held at Marian, Inc. October 8. The silent auction provided a wonderful way for the persons attending to support East Tenth UM Children and Youth programs. The celebration included touching presentations from the children, teachers, and a parent explaining why East Tenth UM Children & Youth is an important part of their lives. Jean Casmir Hill and her staff provided lots of energy to the celebration. United Way, this past week, honored the East Tenth UM Children & Youth -- United Way and its partners support child care ministries in their efforts to improve the learning environments for their children. Several companies and supporters were honored for their gifts of talent, service and contributions for building upgrades that are still going on – windows, lighting, bathroom remodeling, little sinks, and more. Jean celebrated the staff, Board of Directors and volunteers. You can reach Jean at 317-637-5144.

Brightwood Community Center was able to tell their story to more than 100 persons sharing a meal at Lawrence United Methodist Church October 9. Mr. Bernard McFarland, recipient of ABC’s Extreme Makeover Home Edition in May 2009, told his story of growing up in the Brightwood-Martindale neighborhood and attending Brightwood Community Center when he was a little boy. He has a story of a good, supportive family and community that supported him and provided a place to come back to raise his family. Brightwood continues to be a place where children can be safe. The National Council on Educating Black Children (NCEBC) opened their second literacy site at Brightwood Community Center Saturday, October 10. The program provides books and software for the Brightwood Community Center’s computer lab to work with children on their reading skills. More tutors and mentors are needed at Brightwood as this program expands. IPS school 51 is outside their back door to be reached with the care of United Methodist members. You can reach Rev. Debra Grady, 317-543-5648.