SEPTEMBER, 2010

"A new day is dawning and I will not allow unruly circumstances or failures to dampen my spirit, but use it as a catalyst for greater faith." - Unknown

Had you been at camp this year you might have noticed a couple of Rovers who quietly served by setting up decorations, running snacks to the pool, or directing traffic for four hours straight. You might have learned a thing or two about their love for the beach, hiking, travelling or their two cats. You might have learned that Mike is a Respiratory Therapist and that Kathy was a Nurse Aide before retiring last year and now volunteers for Show Mercy International and as a mentor for a REACH mom.

What you likely do not know about this dynamic duo is their unique history with REACH. They are former REACH parents. Their son Matthew acquired the HIV virus through a blood transfusion soon after his birth, and together with his parents and sister attended the first REACH camp in 1997. Though Matthew passed away in 2007, Mike and Kathy tell their story with a grace and confidence that demonstrates a sense of hope and even victory despite dreadfully difficult circumstances.

In their own way, Mike and Kathy demonstrate that sorrow is not always able to hold down hurting hearts. They encourage us, by their faith, by their gratitutude for the time they had with Matthew, by their serving hearts, by their willingness to stand beside others who have fears or doubts of outcomes, they demonstrate to us that after the darkest of hours, "a new day is dawning."

Their serving is a gift to REACH Camp and they affirm that Camp has, from the very first year, been affirmation to them as well.

So, in this brief note, we of REACH wish to say thank you to Mike and Kathy who are a grace and hope-filled inspiration to us all, who have walked with us even as we walk with them. As well, we thank those of you who faithfully contribute time, prayer, funds, talents and skills to the ongoing work of REACH. All of this is used as catalyst for our continuing faith.

Sincerely,


Stefanie Johnson


Merry O. Moyer

P.S. Check out two fundraising events we have coming up in October! We are partnering with Tacoma Glassblowing Studio for the Great NW Pumpkin Patch! A portion of the proceeds for signature pumpkins will help local children infected with HIV/AIDS through programs and services of REACH. Dust off your running shoes, the 2nd annual 5K Run for HIV/AIDS with Overlake Christian Church is coming October 9th! Check out the homepage for more information!