The Military Recognition project began as a "thought" by an extremely dedicated and always smiling Rebecca Melick - chairperson of the Social Ministry committee at Zion. Since her project list is much longer than the hours in any day, the project was given to another committee member, Shellie Evers – a “newbie” and a military mom, so it was a perfect match.
The project that began with brainstorming ideas in the summer, all set to culminate on November 11, Veteran’s Day, involved meetings for fleshing out ideas, approval of a budget from the Council, a Thrivent grant application (and subsequent shopping trip to Walmart once the grant was received), several emails to the congregation to gather names, addresses, and requests for the care package contents for those currently serving, and names and details for those who had previously served -- as well as a request for donations. Next steps included "Trick or Treating for the Troops" and packing of the boxes by the Sunday School classes, and addressing and finishing of the boxes by other “recruits” before taking them to the church for the big day.
On Sunday, November 11, the bulletin insert named each service member, those currently serving and those who had previously served, in detail. The worship service was full of poignant references and recognitions with the highlight being the blessing of the boxes by the children, introduced by Courtney Rzeplinski and by led by Pastor Mark Summer.
The individually and uniquely packaged boxes were sent to service members in the following places:
Alabama (1), Hawaii (1), Maryland (1), Missouri (1), New Jersey (1), North Carolina (2), Tennessee (1), Virginia (1), Korea (2)
The boxes consisted of some or all of the following items paid for through the $250 Thrivent Grant:
· Riesen candy (you’re the “Reisen” our country is free)
· Lifesavers (thank you for being our heroes and “lifesavers”)
· Dog toys
· Protein bars
· $25 Walmart gift cards (7)
The Thrivent grant was supplemented by the following donations for the care packages:
· $25 iTunes gift cards (4) donated by Bill & Eleanor Kover
· Photos, notes, and Halloween candy donated by the Sunday School classes
· God’s Eyes crafts donated by Courtney Rzeplinski
· Fresh produce donated by Rebecca Melick
· Ear buds (4) and other miscellaneous items donated by the Evers family
Due to the success of the project, and requests by several congregants, we hope to make this an ongoing annual project. Our sincere thanks to all involved!
SPECIAL THANKS:
Pastor Summer – For the beautiful way you always make the worship services feel special – but especially for the November 11 service. It was perfect!
Courtney Rzeplinski – For your creativity, your work on this project personally, your leadership of the kids, and for your participation in the worship service – it was wonderful!
The Sunday School classes – For your sweet notes, your creativity, your time in putting the boxes together, and for your kind generosity in donating your “hard earned” Halloween candy!
Rebecca Melick – For the idea to formally recognize our active duty and veteran military members, for taking the budget request to the Council, for all your support throughout …and for helping finish assembling the boxes!
Todd & Stacey Rothermel – For applying for and helping us get the Thrivent grant to help fund the project.
Eric and Joshua Evers – For helping shop at Walmart, for your help in finishing the boxes, and for being the “muscle” needed to carry them to the various places they needed to go.
Jenny Gelson – For proofing and sending emails, collecting and formatting information for the November newsletter, printing pictures for the boxes, and for the November 11 insert. You are so great, and your attention to detail is so very appreciated!
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