Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
WT Whitecotton's volunteerism at the Bee Hive Homes of Portales allows him to trade Bible scripture lessons to senior citizens for knowledge on life.
Whitecotton, a junior at Floyd High School and resident of Portales, has participated in the Third and Kilgore Church of Christ youth group since age 12. The group allows him and about six other youth to explore and strengthen their spirituality by serving others.
Each month Whitecotton and fellow group members bond with Bee Hive residents through Bible study, devotionals, casual conversation and other activities.
"I like when the senior citizens tell you about experiences they've had in their life because they try to help you," Whitecotton said.
"You can talk to them about tough times you're having and they can relate because a lot of them have been through similar things and they can tell you new ways to get through."
Whitecotton said during its last visit to the Bee Hive Homes his group helped decorate the facility for Christmas.
Church of Christ youth minister Marcus Cambell said all crafts and activities involving youth are designed to get them out of their comfort zone and interact with a population they otherwise might not.
"The seniors express their appreciation for the mere presence and the time that the young people take out for them," Cambell said.
"It's a great introduction to ministry for kids because they're working with people who are good at expressing gratitude in a society that doesn't really value it as much anymore."
When Cambell and his group arrive at the Bee Hive, they work with staff checking on residents.
Cambell believes the youth' service at the Bee Hive has started to help them think about and take time to prepare lessons that are relevant to residents and to themselves. He said he sees group activities getting youngsters to think and see beyond their own experience.
"It represents the church well because a lot of them (youth) grow up in homes where service is valued highly and emphasized regularly."
"That's a rare blessing today. Through their work I hope our youth gain a strong foundation in a somewhat neglected Christian calling."
Shadarah Pepsworth, a sophomore at Floyd High School and resident of Portales, said the group allows her an opportunity to bond with other area youth in a positive environment and keeps her positive.
"The kids in my group support me spiritually and they help me get through hard times," said Pepsworth, who has participated in the group for four years.
"I can talk to them about anything that I couldn't share with my friends at school."
Pepsworth said she can also share a lot with residents as well. She said she likes staying involved in all group activities, meeting new residents each month and serving them in different areas.
Pepsworth said group members created Christmas ornaments for residents this month and glued on their pictures.
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