October 17 Day Camp

For this day camp, we served 21 families, the majority of whom we have known for a few years. They have attended various activities in the past, including day camps, picnics, English classes and family retreats. These families come together as family.

As the key message today, we focused on Max Lucado's book You Are Special. Thanks to book donations from a group in Beijing, we have used You Are Special several times with the children, but this was the first time we discussed it with the parents. Although a children's book, the themes were significant for the parents. Even into break times, mothers continued discussing the book. 

I (Kevin) led simple English songs.

The kids also enjoyed drawing and crafts with beads and modeling clay.

Shirley, who had read the book You Are Special to the kids, taught the whole group an accompanying song.

Helen served as the emcee for the kids as they sang solos, recited poetry or played a flute. Even kids who could barely speak wanted to participate.

Although this photo does not show the whole group (65 individuals participated), all of the children are present. Also, the volunteers from Dayna's newest group of students are in the photo.

After the group photo, several families took individual shots before having to say good bye.

This little guy was our youngest participant. His nap began as the day camp ended.
~ Kevin

Follow up

I had not expected to return to this town so soon, but I was glad to follow up with new friends. These photos give a glimpse.  

~ Kevin

April 25 Day Camp

The final day camp of April went well. Of course, it didn't go as planned; it seldom does. We had to adjustment our schedule and activities, but thankfully, the families felt loved and free to be themselves. It was a good day. 

~ Kevin

April 4 Day Camp

This second day camp of 2015 was in the southern part of our city. It was quite different than last week, although the tentative schedule was similar. As far as families, we originally planned to focus on kids with physical disabilities since last week focused on intellectual disabilities. The final outcome was half with cerebral palsy, three with autism, one with Down syndrome and one with a hearing impairment. Also, last week was basically a reunion of families and volunteers from last year; this week involved many new families and volunteers.    

 

~ Kevin

Deer Necklace

We gave our friend a special necklace given to us by Joni Eareckson Tada. This necklace was designed by a lady named Tracy, who suffered from a car accident while attending Baylor several years ago. The necklace displays the image of a deer described in Isaiah 35:6, and our friend is wearing it with joy. He didn't even want to remove the necklace tag. I imagine he will wear it every day.

Then the lame will leap like a deer,

    and the mute tongue shout for joy.

Water will gush forth in the wilderness

    and streams in the desert.

~ Isaiah 35:6

~ Kevin

Caregiving Training

One of the best ways to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families is through caregiving training and encouragement. Today's focus was caregiving for physical disabilities, especially Cerebral palsy. Additionally, we provided activities for the kids.

~ Kevin