VALDOSTA —
They came from six different states and represented six different churches, as they spread their Christian love and repaired houses in the city’s designated revitalization areas as part of the 7th annual Southern Hospitality Workcamp.
Friday night saw the close of the camp. But as the 148 student-volunteers prepared to head back home, all in attendance could witness that same vibrancy and pure energy that fueled the teens through the 3,996 hours they logged this week.
“I look forward to you coming back next year, ” said Valdosta Mayor John Gayle. “I hope that you can return because I know the (homeowners) sitting down front are really appreciative of all the work you’ve done.”
In all, the group repaired 17 houses for sick and disabled homeowners and they collected over 800 cans for Second Harvest Food Bank.
The closing ceremony was filled with song, dance and even a bit of impromptu pantomime. Fifteen volunteers stormed the stage for a chance to play the part of cheerleaders, reporters and raving fans. But moderator Jake Rassmusen, was making a point, as the actors played out the story of a famous athlete who’d given up on his sport.
“When you quit playing the game, you lose your edge,” said Rassmusen. “This entire week has been like a sports game. But let’s be honest, the game’s not over and God still wants to work in you. Don’t give up on
the game.”
Several of the homeowners stood before the audience to relay their thanks for the efforts that the campers had given them in repairing their homes all week.
“There are days when I’m unable to go from the bedroom to the kitchen or living room,” said one homeowner. “But this entire week, I’ve been able to get up. I’ve been able to prepare a meal for the kids.”
The camp’s closing ceremony concluded with each of the crews of youth huddled around the homeowners -- each group exchanged good-byes and parting prayers.
The annual Southern Hospitality Workcamp supports the city’s goal to eliminate substandard housing in the community by the year 2020,
according to representatives from the camp. The camp’s 17 home sites were selected by the City of Valdosta Neighborhood Development Division based on qualifying criteria, they said, and the homes must be owner-occupied and in need of minor repairs.
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