Fairview/Fairmont Outreach Committee

Annual Report

2009

My heart froze as I heard the words from a friend over the phone last summer - “There’s a fire at Fairview/ Fairmont – I just heard it on my scanner.” I hung up and immediately dialed the Outreach Rooms, hoping the fire wasn‘t there yet praying for those involved wherever it was. Miraculously, Karen Fillingame answered, in between delivering coffee to residents and fire fighters. The fire was in another building. Fortunately, it was contained and although 5 families had to be relocated, there were no serious injuries. The building is being repaired and should be ready for occupancy again by spring.

So it is with the Outreach Program at Fairview/Fairmont – often witnessing “fires” in people’s lives – caused by economics, caused by poor decisions, caused by illness or disability. Yet grace seems to prevail and small repairs in lives are made.

Economics has had a more debilitating effect on Fairview/Fairmont residents this year. Although many people who live there are employed, there were more requests for school clothes and shoes. Residents were extremely thankful for winter coats provided by First Presbyterian and gloves and mittens provided by Stone Methodist. Students anxiously await and are so thankful for the school supplies donated by Presbyterian Women. Grace prevailed and needs were met. For a time, we witnessed an escalation in behavioral issues with youth coming to the Outreach Rooms. Twice the Rooms were broken into and security repairs had to be made. Then, a “peace table” was set up in the Outreach Rooms and peace mobiles were made in the after-school Bible program. Grace prevailed and peace seemed to be restored. In 2007, the traditional Thanksgiving Dinner was not held. The previous year people had signed up to attend in great numbers, but then backed out at the last minute, leaving preparations and food in vain. In 2008, several residents asked for the dinner to be re-instated and several residents volunteered to help with this major project. Out of the 82 people who signed up for the dinner this year, 75 attended. Grace prevailed and community spirit seemed to be revived. A resident sponsored a Christmas tea for women in the Outreach Rooms. Grace prevailed and the event was well attended. Increased efforts were made for youth to attend BLAST Camp at First Presbyterian. Grace prevailed and 4 attended, more than in many years. The Tenants Association has been either dormant or just a flickering presence for many years. Recently, new people have come forward with interest in participating. Grace prevailed and new officers have been elected who seem to be motivated to represent the residents and their concerns. Not a day goes by that the Outreach Rooms provide a grace-filled place for residents to come to – perhaps not for an organized activity but for a “visit” – to talk over problems, to search through donated clothing, for fellowship.

Grace prevailed significantly with regard to Sarah Everett who was re-hired after Debbie Williams left due to family responsibilities. Over the years since Sarah began with the Outreach Program as a VISTA volunteer, she has bonded with many residents at Fairview/Fairmont, especially the youth. Her expertise in art and her understanding of the need to broaden the horizons of the residents has made Sarah an integral part of our staff. Sarah suffered severe injuries in a one-car accident in the fall and required many surgeries to repair her broken bones. Grace prevailed and Sarah received the unsolicited support of the ministers and friends at the churches with visits, cards, prayers and flowers. The proceeds from the December Community Handbell Concert were given to her. After many repairs, Sarah will be back with us in 2009.

Sometimes it’s more difficult to see the grace. A bright and athletic student was accepted to college with loans and scholarships, a major accomplishment. Both churches donated significantly for expenses for dorm living. At the last moment, the student decided not to attend and opted for employment based on a high school diploma. Now this student is contemplating college again but now on a less solid foundation. Grace is sometimes in the shadows as 50% of the population at Fairview/Fairmont is below age 18. Many are in single parent households and many lack supervision. Some harass other adult residents and damage property. Some never avail themselves of the Outreach Program. Others have no idea who Jesus is.

Overall, grace prevails due the staff at the Fairview/Fairmont Outreach Program. Karen Fillingame, whose employment with us has lasted over 25 years, is the glue and the grace which prevails. Sarah Everett’s skills and understanding mesh with the needs of the residents, especially with her focus on youth. Rich Pfalzgraf, our Computer Technician, maintains all the computers in the lab which is used hundreds of hours each month. He also provides computer updates, recommends new purchases and installs security programs for the lab. Our new Allegheny Bonner student, Juanita Campbell-Heredia, works with cooking and literacy programs and has brought other Allegheny students with her to help. Gloria Shields continues to work every summer and brings her vivacious faith and no-nonsense nurturing to adults and youth who look forward to her return when school is not in session.

Despite fires and despite challenges, the Outreach Program has been a significant presence at Fairview/

Fairmont and continues to provide a positive impact on the residents of this housing complex. The Outreach Program has been a mission of First Presbyterian and Stone Methodist churches for over 30 years and it is often mission at its most basic. We thank you, the members of these churches, for your continued support by way of your contributions, your prayers and your hands-on help.

Fairview/Fairmont Outreach Committee

Christine Lafferty, Moderator (First Pres.)

Mary Jane Webb, Treasurer (Stone)

Gary Alizzeo (First Pres.)

Janet Haas (Stone)

Laurie Jones (First Pres.)

Barb Kaputa (First Pres.)

Marty Malone (First Pres.)

Gerald Murphy (Stone)

Mathilda Murphy (Stone)

Nancy Snyder (Stone)

Pastor John Spahr (Stone)

Rev. Brian Jensen (First Pres.)