An upcoming special event is planned for the children of Methodist Children’s Home in Jackson.
Creating this event featuring classic games was conceptualized by Paula Bass, founder of the non-profit From Widows to Winner Project International. “Classic Game Day” will be held later in April, also National Child Abuse Prevention Month, to show kids in the foster care system how important they are and how much people care.
The event will include an ice cream sundae party and playtime. Local community volunteers are stepping up to make the day special for the kids, including Simon Marks, local juggler and CPA from Brandon. Finding ways to include volunteers’ special talents in events is one of Paula’s strengths.
In 1986, after 17 years of marriage, Paula lost her husband Darryl, to a sudden brain aneurysm. As she navigated raising four young children and the grieving process, Paula clung to a desire to serve as an instrument of support for orphans and widows. Being called into full-time ministry, she spent 10 years as the missions director with Antioch Missions International and 12 years as the founder and director of From Widow To Winner Project International.
“The reason why I called it Classic Game Day is to help kids up off the couch, away from screens where they don’t learn to relate to each other. We will be playing classic games like double dutch, marbles, and jacks,” Paula said. “These classic games require you to react to each other and build community. They give you a chance to really get to know each other through play and begin friendships. I think it is so important to show kids from foster care how important they are, and how much people really care about who they are. They are going from post to post, family to family, and need a chance to connect.”
If you are interested in getting involved or learning more about From Widows to Winners Project International, click here or call 757-667-0056. To learn more about the Methodist Children’s, click here or call 601-853-5000.
