It was hot!! Above 95 degrees most of the day. That did not stop over 35 volunteers from coming for at least part of the day to build a fence to make a safe place to play for kids at the SCCAP facilities in town. The South Central Community Action Programs of Gettysburg had a need. Thrivent members and friends answered that need by showing up with some sweat equity and built that fence. It was all organized by the Thrivent Community – Southern Commonwealth. Volunteers started to arrive about 9 AM.
Shade tents were set up and plenty of ice and water were on hand.
Men were digging post holes and carrying fencing. At first there were a lot of guys who were getting organized and doing a good job figuring out how to go about the process of getting the fence up. It was getting hotter faster and progress seemed slow. Then out of the blue a stranger to most of the volunteers appeared on the scene and calmly announced that he has been in this business for 18 years. Suddenly we could see the light at the end of this hot tunnel! The fence began to take shape in a hurry.
The men worked together so well with the help of this professional. When asked how we were blessed with his presence he replied, “I saw it in the newspaper and thought I could help.” Help he did, and everyone appreciated his expertise so much as we watched this miracle take shape.
Meanwhile back in the shaded area, others were busy assembling play ground fixtures. Some of them came together quite simply, others felt like a frustrating Christmas Eve dilemma.
As soon as the toys came “off the press” so to speak, they were put to good use. Gina, on the left, a Thrivent representative and Tanya on the right, representing SCCAP, share a mutual admiration hug, as they both worked very hard to see this day to its completion.
“The pig” rolled in just after 11. He was well done.
This is what is known as a “Pennsylvania Pig Roast” as opposed to the “Hawaiian Luau.” One of the kids standing by when the hood was open said quite flatly, “Who killed the pig?” Adding emphatically, “I don’t eat pig!” After a second thought she said, “Oh except for bacon and ham.” When the piles of meat ended up on the platter, she ate “pig” as well.
As lunch time drew near the end of the job seemed closer and even the kids joined in to help with the work load.
Others were having fun, and the men, kept digging post holes.
Soon enough the fence was completed and the pictures proved a job well done. The end product did seem a miracle given the heat of the day and the surprise show up from an unexpected angel.
I love it when a plan comes together and how just “showing up” for a community project can bless so many people.