Berry College - Office of Alumni Relations

Harlan Chapman reported on plans for "Make a Difference Day". Money, and/or food is being accepted for The Salvation Army. These funds will be taken to WalMart to purchase cases of food. WalMart usually gives additional funds, and cases of needed food will be purchased. These cases are more easily stored at the Food Center for distribution by The Salvation Army.

The volunteers will meet for breakfast at Shoney's at 8 AM, October 25th, then go to the Salvation Army at 9 AM. They will work in the Food Center helping shelve the donated items, plus other needed help.

Celeste Creswell, Vice President, reported on the Service Project for our spring meeting. Our donations will go to the Boys and Girls Club. She introduced Robbie Slocumb, Chief Professional Officer of the Boys and Girls Club of Gordon, Murray, and Whitfield counties, who spoke to the group. He shared the mission of the club; "Give kids a chance to meet in a safe place to learn and grow".

Mr. Slocumb reported that 58% of the kids served are of a single parent family. He stressed that not only were they given a safe place, but help with homework, programs, and different job, and character development experiences. One of the greatest benefits from this club, is that more of the kids stay in school and graduate from high school. Also less criminal problems, and other ways that make an impact on the children's life.

The Boys and Girls club in Dalton is located in the former Pathway Christian School building. Children 6-18 are eligible, and can attend for $10 per week. This includes a snack, plus above mentioned items.

Celeste Creswell, Vice President, introduced Whitni Bledsoe, senior student from Berry. Whitni, co-director of Volunteer Services at Berry. She shared ways the students are going forth with Miss Berry's motto, "not to be ministered unto, but to minister." Whitni has been involved in numerous volunteer missions, including overseas missions. She spoke of the dedication of the volunteers at Berry, and their help in the local community, and more. Miss Berry would be very proud that the Berry students are carrying out her goals. Whitni presented the projects in a caring and compassionate manner. Carolyn Smith thanked Whitni, and presented a gift to her from the chapter.

Tim Howard, of the Scholarship Committee, shared the news that one of the students chosen for a scholarship did not go to Berry. The money set aside for that student was shared with the two students that did attend Berry. Tim read a thank you note from Jada Isenhower for her scholarship.

Carolyn Smith, President, reminded the group that the chapter elects officers for two years. She asked that members desiring to work with the group, please contact her.

Harlan Chapman, asked the group to remember Charles Acree. Charles has been a faithful, and hardworking member longer than anyone present. He is being transferred next week from Assisted Living to the Gardens, at Royal Oaks. Some suggestions were: that we send cards, make phone calls, visit, or remember his birthday in a special way.

Doris and Harlan Chapman came prepared to keep nursery for children of the members. No children were present. Plans were discussed for the same for the spring meeting.

Carolyn Smith announced a tentative date of March 12,2009 for the spring meeting. It will be confirmed later.

Door prizes were given out by Doris Chapman and Bernice Holcomb.

Berry Alma Mater by Doris Chapman and Bernice Holcomb

Closing prayer, Mr. Tim Howard.

Respectfully Submitted

Rethia Camp Spence