HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – The late Wally Bryan, former mayor of Christian County, founded Challenge House because he felt a need to be more involved with the community he served. Nineteen years after its conception, Challenge House Ambassadors gathered Saturday at the First Baptist Church in Hopkinsville for “A Celebration of Those Who Serve” recognition dinner, dedicated to the volunteers that help them fulfill his dream of rebuilding neighborhoods and relationships.
Focusing on at-risk, under-resourced inner-city areas in Hopkinsville, the missionary Ambassadors move into the neighborhoods, making connections and seeking ways to help the community grow. They assist with after school snacks for those who may not have access to food after school, tutoring, helping others find treatment groups and offering fun activities to bring youth and adults together in a constructive way. While the Ambassadors involve themselves in the area, they rely completely on volunteers and donations to continue their work.
Gina Cordella, who serves at Challenge House #4, said that Mr. Bryan had a lot of love for the community, and after volunteering with him for a Bible study program, she and her husband felt called to move from Tennessee to follow his example. After six years, they are now a vital part of the lives of those around them, and it showed with the large group of adopted families who attended the event.
The goal of the program is to transform these communities from the inside out. Jason Scruggs, speaking to the crowd on the impact the program has had on his life, said he was invited to attend an event when he was in third grade, and it gave him a place to belong to and be safe. Now in high school, he considers his ambassadors to be a part of his family.
Honors
The six Challenge Houses honored a variety of volunteers who help them with their mission. They awarded Ardel Owen and Angleique Vicks who keep an eye on Challenge House #1. They handle repairs, lawn care and watching for trespassers until a new Ambassador can be installed. Tutors Mary Beth Ross, Kay Henderson and Scotty Ross for Challenge House #5 were acknowledged, along with the many churches that provide funds and resources. More than 22 volunteers were honored for their efforts.
Board member and alum of the Challenge House program, Jesmun Willes summed up the power of the program. “When you grow up in the hood, you surround yourself with what you see. Mr. Bryan opened my eyes to see that you take responsibility for yourself instead of saying this is just happening to you.”
Executive Director Michelle Wilson thanked everyone for their dedication to the mission and promoted the upcoming Attitude and Training program, to provide high school students with firsthand training in various career paths. Without receiving funding from the federal or local governments, donations of time or money are always needed. If you would like to get involved in the mission, reach out to her at exectuivedirector@challengehouse.org.
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