Starting the School Year with a Bang!

When Azalea Apartments Manager Peggy Koruschak reached out to Bowling Green area churches in June to assist with providing backpacks and school supplies for the complex's students, Pastor Amy Harper was eager to help out. "What an excellent opportunity to show the community how much we care," she said. 

With only a few weeks to plan, Amy and Peggy worked together to craft not only a school supply giveaway, but also a huge block party where kids and their families could come and let out some late-summer energy.  "We worked hard to get the word out to the residents at Azalea Apartments, and applied for a Transformational Grant from the South West District office, as well," Pastor Amy explained.

That matching grant went a long way toward helping to make the event a huge success.  With it, Bowling Green UMC was able to purchase supplies to give away to more than 75 kids, including kids both within and outside of the Azalea Apartments Neighborhood.  What's more, the church brought a bounce house and obstacle course, food, and games, along with about two dozen volunteers to ensure a fun-filled day. "I really enjoyed spending quality time with the kids," church member Wade Sperry said. 

Plugged in is a good way to put it.  Pastor Amy says that the church is just beginning its relationship with Azalea Apartments, and has plans to continue working with Koruschak to provide outreach and ministries to the community.  "We're so excited to share the love and grace of God with this neighborhood."  Pray about how you can get involved with reaching out to these families.