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Local low income homeowners to benefit from "Impact Virginia."

Chris Shoemaker

March 9, 2011

More than 100 missionaries from Baptist churches across Virginia will converge on the campus of Bluefield College, July 24-30, for the purpose of restoring homes in the community as part of a program called Impact Virginia.

Sponsored by the Virginia Baptist Mission Board, Impact Virginia is a one-week mission opportunity for youth that focuses on home repair for low-income families and spiritual growth for teens and the people they serve.

Last summer, 140 youth from 13 Baptist churches across Virginia participated in Impact Virginia in Bluefield. The teens spent the early mornings and evenings each day in devotion and worship on the BC campus, but the bulk of their daily time in the community, renovating 11 homes in Tazewell (VA) and Mercer (WV) counties.

Their work included repairing and constructing porches, ramps, handrails, flooring, roofs, windows, plumbing, and landscaping for low-income homeowners. Their goal this year will be much the same.

"The main goal of Impact Virginia is to make the dwellings of homeowners safer, dryer and warmer," said Bluefield College campus minister David Taylor. "At Bluefield College, we believe passionately in service above self and strive hard to prepare compassionate students to impact their world. Impact Virginia is an opportunity to not only serve others, but also to grow in Christian faith."

Area residents with limited resources whose homes are in need of repair are invited to submit an application now to be considered for Impact Virginia this summer. To obtain an application, call Kristen Garrett in BC's Center for Service, Mission and Ministry at 276.326.4471 or 276.326.4206. Or, e-mail Kristin at . Homes must be owner occupied.

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