Good Evening,
Today is a day we should not forget September 11, 2001. I am remember that day so well. We started a new program at our church called Aim For Health Ways. It was a program to offer the church members and the community FREE Prevention Health Education and Programs. We are still going strong at our church offering these programs in partnership with Phoenixville Hospital.
Then it was the same day the Twin Tower terror attacks happen too. It was a day the world had never seen before. So many lives were lost. We lost a local by the name of George Smith who was killed that day. He was grew up here in Phoenixville, graduated from high school then earned his degree in Accounting and work in the Twin Tower. George Smith was one of the original five men who started the organization Phoenixville Area Positive Alternates (PAPA). This organization started with five men, Kenneth D. Winston, George Smith, Darryl Vinson, George Gadsden, and Rev. Greg Thornton established Phoenixville Area Positive Alternatives in the spirit of The Million Man March. Their first initiative was the rehabilitation of the C'Jon Saunders Park.
Each year, Phoenixville Area Positive Alternatives serve the children and youth from surrounding neighborhoods, providing quality programs through academic enrichment, social development, and athletic programming. Many of our programs are offered free or at minimal cost to families.
Primarily a volunteer, grass-roots organization, PAPA works closely with the Phoenixville Area School District, the Borough of Phoenixville, Phoenixville Community Health Foundation and other local organizations to create a positive, effective, and motivating force in the Phoenixville community.
PAPA runs after school academic, enrichment, and athletic programs throughout the year.
I had to reflect on the part George Smith played in the role of the birth and beginning of the PAPA organization, because he played a major role in getting the organization started. As we are celebrating the 20th Year Anniversary on September 19th with a Fundraiser PAPA Cooking Event, I do want to forget those who made these events possible. So I pray for George Smith family and those who lost lives and family member as they will still need prayer as they continue in life without their love ones
Now it's your turn to share something and PAY IT FORWARD.
Choose Courage; Choose To Be Strong, Unafraid And Positive
Choose Faith To Start Your Day
Choose GOD Along Your Way
Have A Blessed Day!!!
Dolly
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