Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country
Founded 05-05-05
March 27, 2008 issue
Resort Area Ministries, Inc. (RAM) is now taking applications for summer mission work projects. For the past 13 years, RAM has hosted church mission groups from the Southeastern United States. These mission groups stay in Boone from three days to one week and assist Resort Area Ministries with work projects and campground ministries.
Low-income families, individuals, senior citizens and others who cannot do their own labor because of illnesses or physical impairments may be eligible for RAM’s projects. Many of RAM’s clients are senior citizens who are unable to do their own work or cannot afford to pay for the projects’ expensive labor costs. The work that the RAM crews provide enables these senior members of our community to stay in their own homes longer and keep their independence. They also look forward to the company that the work crews provide, so RAM not only helps with home repairs, but also with the spiritual and emotional well being of the people. The summer work projects have been the catalyst for friendships that have continued for several years.
The projects that qualify include houses that need painting; simple carpentry or repair jobs on porches, decks, steps or interiors; roofing houses; yard work and cleaning projects. A RAM staff member reviews each project beforehand. Clients will be notified as soon as possible after the staff determines if the project qualifies or not.
RAM’s Rack Thrift Shop in Boone helps provide funding for these projects, but the budget for the work is limited. If the recipient or his/her family is able to help pay for the cost of the materials, such as paint or lumber, this help is greatly appreciated but not required. Anyone who would like to donate materials or monies to help with these projects can contact the RAM office. RAM is a nonprofit organization, so donations are tax deductible.
The projects will take place in June, July and August, depending on the groups’ schedules. Projects may have to be rescheduled or canceled because of rainy or cold weather.
If you would like to apply or know someone who would like to apply, contact Missions Coordinator Mary Dean Silver or Executive Director Tom Moore at 828-264-6605. Applications are also available at the RAM’s Rack Thrift Shop, 877 West King Street in Boone.