Career Portfolio

P.E. Shaver Career Portfolio Publications Web Design Advertisements Marketing Photography Writing

P.E. Shaver Career Portfolio Thank you for taking the time to view my

career portfolio. Here you will see several desktop publishing and writing samples.

The desktop publishing software I use is

Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, PhotoShop, Acrobat and Illustrator). I have experience working with both PC and Mac operating systems.

Formatting & Design

My Career Voyage: Charting the Course

Career management book Designed covers and pages, formatted

text and images, and wrote content of this 96-page book used for career development workshop of the same name. Can also be used individually.

Packed with information and activities to guide career explorers as they chart a career course and build a career portfolio.

Biblical Recorder

News Journal Formatted text and images and laid out

news pages for the Baptist State Convention news journal with a readership of 45,000.

Created print and web advertisements, marketing material and images for promotional items.

Obtained information, interviewed convention members, and wrote articles about how they gave of their vocational talents and convention resources.

N.C. Dept. of Commerce Division of Employment Services Wrote articles, formatted text and images, and laid out pages for

Career Choices of North Carolina, an annual career development paper for youth and adults.

Formatted career development publications: Career Choices in NC User’s Guide (youth and adult) and The Family Tool Kit (English and Spanish), and designed N.C. Career Pathway Posters (English & Spanish).

Websites

Web Design My Career Voyage Career management

website consisting of helpful articles and over 200 links to related resources.

Also include products and

services (book purchase, workshop fee or portfolio design) payable through Pay Pal.

Web Design Raleigh JobSite Career guidance for unemployed

adults. Career and job search articles and links to Raleigh area resources.

Ghana Urban Mission Christian outreach ministry to the

poor people living in the slums of Accra, Ghana.

Print and Web Ad Design

Web Advertisements Ads created for Biblical

Recorder website

Web Advertisements My Career Voyage web ads

Display Ads

Phone Book Ads Ads created for the Baptist State

Convention resource phone book

Display Ads Full Page Ad Full page ad to promote Biblical

Recorder Day in churches. Package of Biblical Recorder Day materials available:

• Poster • Church bulletins • Brochures • Free 3-month subscription • Promotional items

Display Ad Quarter Page Ad for the WRAL JobLink Career Fair

2011 directory. Larger version was used as a flyer.

Business and Career

Marketing Church Bulletin Insert

2-sided bulletin insert was used to promote Biblical Recorder Day at churches and at annual Baptist State Convention meetings.

Marketing Large postcard announcing Biblical

Recorder Day. 3-Month Subscription to the

Biblical Recorder order form.

Marketing - Mailers Post Cards D.A. Shaver web design

postcard / ad mailer

Ministry card for a pastor serving in Accra, Ghana.

Marketing My Career Voyage Flyer advertising a career

management book to help job seekers stay on course by:

• Assessing their interests, skills and personality

• Exploring occupations and industries

• Planning their career and creating resumes and portfolio

• Navigating the job search

Marketing - Flyer Jobs For Life Flyer announcing workshops to

help students create e-mail accounts, explore careers, search for jobs, format resumes, create career portfolios, and obtain computer and Internet help.

Marketing Flyer Flyer announcing singer,

Don Mathews performance at the One Voice Festival in Washington, DC.

Business Cards the JobSite My Career Voyage

Career Portfolio Portfolio Cover Page Career portfolio includes

resume, references, letters of recognition, performance reviews, quotes from supervisors, other managers, peers and customers, and other documents illustrating knowledge, skills, abilities, personality and values.

Career Portfolio Letterhead

Portfolio letter head: Used for cover letter, resume,

references, letters of recognition, performance reviews, quotes from supervisors, other managers, peers and customers. This employee’s entire career was with McDonalds so it was fitting to use the McDonalds logo on his cover page and letterhead.

Graphics and Logos

Rotating images

for My Career Voyage website

Graphics & Logos

People & Places

Cincinnati, Ohio

Cumberland Cap, TN

Big Bone Lick State Park, KY

Falls River, Centerbrook, CT

Carolina Beach Virginia Beach

Falls Lake, Durham, NC

Fun at Hillshire Farm

Hiking at Mount Pisgah

Published Writing

Published Writing My Career Voyage “Laid Off Worker Finds Niche in Creatively

Spreading Awareness” “How Well Does Your Career Fit?” “Church Employees Not Entitled to

Unemployment Benefits”

Ethics Daily

“Federal Help for Premiums Leaves Church Workers Stranded”

Jobs For Life “Facing Career Transition: Retooling for the

Journey Ahead” “Couple Find Ministry in Helping Others

Find Jobs”

Published Writing Biblical Recorder “Cary Church Helps Job

Seekers Make Connections” “Baptist Volunteers Team up

with Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”

“Baptists Rigged for Tall

Ships”

Published Writing Career Choices in

North Carolina “Trends: A True Ally”

“Career Brief: Translator”

Business Leader “Doers Profile: Phyllis

Pearson and Glory to Glory House of Refuge”

Laid Off Worker Finds Niche in Creatively Spreading Awareness

By Patty Edwards Shaver My Career Voyage The recent recession has created a tough job market with unemployment rates in the double digits leaving many dislocated workers at wits end on how to earn an income. Melinda Hawkins of Raleigh uses her jewelry-making hobby to bring in extra money to help pay her bills. Hawkins was laid off from her insurance job in Sept. 2008. When a job didn’t materialize, Hawkins decided to become a self employed insurance agent. Building a business during a downturn in the economy takes time and Hawkins could not afford to wait. With Christmas approaching, Hawkins switched to entrepreneur mode and started uploading photos of her jewelry creations on Facebook. And to her amazement, the jewelry started selling right away. What is unique about Hawkins’ jewelry is that it’s one-of-a-kind; her designs are not duplicated. “People can’t find this in stores,” said Hawkins. “I customize it for the individual rather than make a one size fits all.” She started doing this out of frustration in trying to find jewelry she liked that was affordable, fit correctly, and wouldn’t fall apart. Hawkins decided to learn how to make jewelry and before she knew it, she had more jewelry than she knew what to do with. “Little Inspirations has been a hobby for the last five years that has recently taken off, said Hawkins. “ I enjoy creating one-of-a-kind jewelry that is unique to each person that receives it.” She enjoys working one-on-one with customers to create jewelry for everyday, weddings and other special occasions, ensuring that it fits each person correctly. To avoid disappointing breakage in design concepts, “I try it out before I sell it,” said Hawkins. “If there are flaws, I’ll fix them before I sell them.” Hawkins has recently added a line of Cause Awareness jewelry which is quickly becoming popular. She creates jewelry for causes such as Autism, Breast Cancer and Support the Troops. If there’s a cause to support, Hawkins will create quality jewelry for supporter’s to wear. Hawkins said she was initially trying to make some extra money to help with bills and the jewelry sales have definitely helped. “I expected sales to drop off after Christmas, but sales have increased,” said Hawkins. Within one month, Hawkins has received orders from as far away as England and Ireland. If this keeps up, Hawkins may not have time to sell insurance.

How Well Does Your Career Fit?

Patty Edwards Shaver My Career Voyage Does your job fit? Your career is like an article of clothing; if it doesn't fit right you should find something that does. Think about it for a minute. How uncomfortable is a pair of shoes that are too small? How would you feel walking around all day in those two small shoes? Now think about a time when you saw someone who was in a job that was the wrong fit. They may have been angry, bored, or unmotivated. Too many people work at jobs that don't fit. They just take whatever comes along or choose an occupation for the wrong reasons. They don't take the time to think about what kind of career fit would make them happy. Finding a career that fits can take time and introspection, but this is time well spent. It is better to take the time to do the ground-work rather than wandering aimlessly taking whatever jobs that happen to come along. It is far more rewarding and satisfying to find a career that your are well suited for than to end up doing something you don't like or have no passion for. Finding a career that is a good fit for you is one of the most important decisions you can make. Your future is worth the time and effort you put into planning a career, and it doesn't have to cost a lot of money. There are free or low-cost career development resources available to assist you in your career planning. My Career Voyage will show you where to find them and how to use them. With My Career Voyage: Charting the Course guiding you, you can save time and money planning a rewarding career that is a good fit. My Career Voyage: Charting the Course can be the answer you are looking for. My Career Voyage: Charting the Course is a career planning program that provides guidance to career explorers as they chart their course. Career explorers will obtain and use the necessary tools to successfully plan and manage their career. My Career Voyage: Charting the Course will show you how to plan your career in these simple steps:

1. ASSESS: Look Within – The first tool in the career voyage is the spyglass. Rather than looking out, the career spyglass looks within to assess interests, skills, abilities, personality traits and work values. Before you can decide on the right career, you must “know yourself.”

2. EXPLORE: Find Direction – The career compass provides direction on the career voyage. It finds occupations that match your interests, abilities, personality and values.

3. PLAN: Chart the Course – The career chart involves a marketing plan and preparation of marketing materials: résumé, cover letter, business card and career portfolio.

4. NAVIGATE: Take the Wheel – The career wheel will help the career explorer navigate a successful career voyage while networking and using the best job search strategies.

My Career Voyage: Charting the Course will help you to launch into a new career and stay on course throughout the journey. Click here to find out how you can chart your career course today.

Church Employees Not Entitled to Unemployment Benefits

By Patty Edwards Shaver My Career Voyage With the nation experiencing the highest unemployment rate since 1983 (8.7 percent; N.C. 10.9 percent), Churches and non-profit organizations are facing financial challenges. Many are cutting budgets and salaries, freezing pay and cutting employee’s hours. Others are forced to lay off personnel and close their doors, which mean 89 percent of these workers, nationally, will not receive unemployment benefits. For those who work in North Carolina, 99 percent will be affected. Religious organizations exempt The Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) excludes 501(c)(3) organizations with religious affiliations from paying unemployment taxes and permits states to do the same. However, nothing in federal law requires states to exclude these organizations from paying UI tax. “Most states permit voluntary election of coverage by employers for excluded workers” (Comparison of State Unemployment Insurance Laws, Chapter one, Coverage, p. 1-1), however, very few actually volunteer to pay in. Workers in religious organizations number more than 1,65 million (61,485; NC) of America’s workforce and earned $28,307.4 million ($971.4 million; NC) in 2006. Only 11 percent (1 percent; NC) are entitled to unemployment benefits because they work in one of the few states requiring religious organizations to pay state unemployment tax. According to an Ethics Daily article titled, “Ministers Can Collect Unemployment, Court Says,” some churches provide unemployment options for their employees regardless of state laws. In 1986, bishops from the Catholic Church in Wisconsin were instrumental in developing a Church Unemployment Pay Program “to assist parishes, schools and other church employers in meeting their social justice responsibilities by providing church funded unemployment coverage for lay employees.” Solutions After years of holding a recession-proof reputation, churches and non-profits are unprepared to provide unemployment benefits. It doesn’t have to be that way any longer. Here are examples of what 501(c)(3) organizations can do to provide laid off workers with economic benefits: Contact a private insurance company that specializes in unemployment insurance for nonprofit organizations. • First Nonprofit Companies www.firstnonprofitcompanies.com/unemployment_solutions.htm • 501c Trust www.501ctrust.org/index.php • Choose UST www.chooseust.org • NP Resources www.npresources.org/commonquestions/unemployment_compensation.html Set aside funds for severance packages based on employees’ salary and longevity. Provide career transition assistance to help with reemployment. Many non-profit managers state that the worst part of their job is letting people go. Knowing how they can prepare for tough economic times may help both employer and employee rest easier.

COBRA Premium Assistance not for Everyone

By Patty Edwards Shaver Ethics Daily Shortly after President Obama took office, he announced the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) would provide COBRA premium assistance to workers who have been laid off since Sept. 1, 2008. Many of these workers may have felt relieved at the news of paying only 35 percent of the cost of health care insurance. Family health care plans typically cost more than $1,000 per month. That’s a lot of money to pay out, especially with little or no income coming in. Unfortunately, COBRA premium assistance is not applicable to everyone. COBRA law does not apply to church plans or organizations with less than 20 employees. A church plan is one that is maintained by a church, a convention or association of churches, including church hospitals, schools and other religious organizations. That’s a double whammy considering these same workers will not collect unemployment benefits because their employer is also exempt from paying federal and state unemployment taxes. Too many non-profit employees are unaware that they will not receive unemployment benefits in the event of layoff. That places them at a severe disadvantage as they cannot plan for unemployment. It is not uncommon for many workers to remain unemployed six months to one year, or even longer. Where does this leave non-profit workers who have already sacrificed by working for less than money than other workers? When a church or religious organization takes on the role of employer, it also takes on the moral duty of providing similar benefits as private sector employers. If fail to do so, they should at least inform newly hired employees that they are not entitled to unemployment benefits. Unfortunately, it may be too late to fix this problem for those who are affected now. Although many non-profit employers would like to assist laid off workers, but simply lack the funds necessary to offer severance packages, or pay for outplacement services, or to pay a percentage of COBRA. Maybe this is a wake-up call. It’s not too late to prepare for the next recession.

Facing Career Transition: Retooling for the Journey Ahead

By Patty Edwards Shaver Jobs For Life When Sara King of Raleigh, North Carolina, heard about the Jobs For Life program offered at Trinity Baptist Church in Raleigh, she thought it would be a good opportunity to improve her job search skills. She was in the midst of a career transition after moving from Virginia. The farm she owned and operated there was not generating enough income. She moved to Raleigh to be closer to family and because she believed Raleigh offered more job opportunities. The area in Virginia where King lived “was in a downward spiral,” she said. “It was economically deprived.” What attracted King to the JFL program was the biblically-based curriculum and the champions, or mentors, who had a Christian background. She felt the mentors would be genuinely concerned about the students’ success. King believes that a mentor motivates and supports you and encourages you to keep thinking positively even when you think your goal is not possible. “Mentors keep you going,” King said. The benefit of having a mentor was in knowing that she was “specifically designated for me and my career plan,” King said. “She was supportive to me because she knew my personal plan,” she said. Her mentor is in banking, the occupation King was pursuing. She gave several leads and discussed what bank would be a good fit, and what benefits packages would be best. “She supported my plan and checked my progress and the resumes I sent out,” King said. “She kept saying it was going to happen.” And it did. By the end of the program, King’s self-confidence increased significantly, and she was hired as a customer service representative at a local bank. Mentoring is about relationships, encouragement and providing the tools necessary to win. Everyone in the program worked as a team. The class as a whole felt a unity to help each other. They had a common interest. “Mentors wanted us to succeed and we had the desire to succeed. It was like being coached. Many students may not have gotten a job by graduation, but the mentors were there for us and cheered us on,” King said. This was a unique class for Trinity. Students came from different backgrounds and socio-economic levels, and some volunteers had been recently laid off from their jobs. “We are all the same,” said King. “The economy is uncertain. We were in the same mindset and helped each other. It was a win-win situation. We gave each other job leads and support. It made us all realize that none of us are safe in our jobs regardless of our level of experience,” she said. “These skills are for all of us.”

Couple Finds Ministry in Helping Others Find Jobs

By Patty E. Shaver Jobs For Life Laid off. Downsized. Restructured. No matter what it’s called, unemployment can be a life-changing experience filled with stress and uncertainty. In the current labor market, job loss can strike anyone, at any time, at all levels of the career ladder. When it does happen, Rick and Pat Royals of Raleigh are ready to help and encourage others to find employment. Business partner Rick, owner of Royals Contracting, Inc. and a Jobs for Life business partner, approached Hal Melton, associate pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Raleigh, about having Jobs for Life (JfL) classes taught at the church. Soon after presenting the program to the church they had 40 volunteers. Many mentored students; some instructed classes or sought business partners to interview students for open positions. Others prepared snacks, provided childcare and drove students to the church for class. As a business owner, Rick seeks employees who want to improve themselves. Jobs for Life helps students do that in several ways; it gives them self-esteem and confidence, maybe even for the first time in their lives, said Rick. Jobs for Life gives them the employment readiness skills they need to succeed. Instructors teach job seeking, job keeping skills The curriculum is based on biblical concepts applicable to the work world. Some lessons are about gifts; others teach how Joseph and David did what it took to overcome their roadblocks to succeed. Mock interviews prepared students for real job interviews and Internet job search workshops prepared them to find potential employers. Area business people participated in an open forum providing students the opportunity to practice delivering their 60-second commercial to potential employers. This experience also enabled students the chance to ask questions about occupations, and some received job leads. Instructors teach students that attitude is everything, said Rick. Students gain confidence and learn how to write a resume, how to prepare for interviews and how to get and keep a job. It teaches them how to be better organized and how to communicate. Mentors — champions and cheerleaders Last semester, Pat mentored a student who had a full-time job at the start of class, but was living in a shelter with her young children. “We helped her make the right contacts to get out and be independent,” Pat said. “We helped her get an additional part-time job once she was out of the shelter.” Relationship is very important to the student, to be there next to them every step of the way, Pat said. “I find it very rewarding.” Being a mentor for Jobs for Life “gives me a feeling of satisfaction in doing the Lord’s work,” Pat said. “It’s not about me, but about giving praise and glory to God, and giving the students the tools they need to get out of the situation they are in.” “After seeing how much they progressed from the first class to the last, I feel like a proud parent,” she said. Changed lives This experience has “given me a different outlook on life, said Rick. “I came to realize that some students didn’t have what I had growing up. Some didn’t have much parental influence — some had only one parent, others no parents — no love. “For the first time in their lives they had someone who sincerely spent time with them, either a mentor or instructor who clearly let them know that they care.” Rick said being involved in this program has changed the way he communicates with employees. He’s more “open and able to talk with employees,” he said. He uses the JfL approach, which “gives me the opportunity to talk about these principles and explain how to succeed. And that they’re created to work and God will help them succeed,” said Rick. “I’m more than their employer.” Blessing “Jobs for Life is a big part of our life,” Rick said. “This is something we can do together.” “I feel privileged. It’s encouraging to be part of Trinity Baptist Church and to know we have people who care about Jobs for Life as much as we do. It’s a blessing to be a part of that,” Rick said.

Cary Church Helps Job Seekers Make Connections By Patty E. Shaver Biblical Recorder Professionals exchanging handshakes and business cards fill the room with loud chatter. They are engaged and enthusiastic. They are also unemployed. Most of them had been laid off from their jobs, making them part of North Carolina’s 7.9 percent unemployment rate. Most of the job seekers heard by word of mouth about a networking group called Colonial JobSeekers (CJS) that meets at Colonial Baptist Church in Cary on Monday mornings. Here they can find a sense of community, accountability, networking and job search skill development in a confidential and professional environment. Colonial is experiencing the largest turnout since 2001, said Paula Bryan, director of Colonial JobSeekers. Recently, the number of job seekers in the networking group has more than doubled, mostly due to area layoffs. “Many have said that their time of unemployment has redirected their lives. If it wasn’t for this transition, it may not have happened,” said Bryan, as she spoke to 145 members Dec. 8. “God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28),” she said. The group meets on Monday mornings to help job seekers get ready and motivated for other job search activities throughout the week. “Networking is about building relationships,” Bryan said. “Come with the objective to encourage someone else. The more you reach out and help others, the more it will strengthen you.” “Unemployment can drain your hope if you let it,” Bryan said. “The No. 1 way to find a job is networking.” Someone who knows you may be the one to open the door to your next job, she said. After devotions, the professionals split up into special interest groups consisting of individuals with common professional backgrounds and skill sets. Here they exchange job leads and discuss upcoming interviews. “Colonial JobSeekers supports professionals from a personal level,” said Kevin Hackney of Cary. Hackney is one of a number of job seekers who attends and volunteers at Colonial as a way to give back and to help others. Developing relationships during the career transition is very important, Hackney said. Colonial provides a place for professionals to meet others and network. Colonial is Christ centered, and makes the point that the job seekers’ ultimate relationship needs to be with Jesus. Sharon Cox, a career coach for Career Directions/Resume Writing, assists with forwarding job leads and leading a small group of job seekers in career transition at the weekly meetings. “JobSeekers is not just a networking group, said Cox. “It provides spiritual and emotional support, accountability, and job seeking skills” such as resume writing and interviewing skills. “Colonial differs from other groups as this is the group with heart,” said Cox. The work gets done by a dedicated group of volunteers, many of whom are job seekers themselves. Some volunteers from the community dedicate their time to serve as speakers, counselors, recruiters, etc. “It is important for community employers to be made aware of the available pool of qualified candidates through local networking groups like Colonial and to list their job openings with these groups,” said Bryan. Many job seekers suffer disappointment from losing their job, but they can choose two different paths: despair or hope. “If you don’t have anything to hope for, you will despair,” said Hackney. “We try to give job seekers hope by sharing the gospel with them. We encourage them by letting them know that they are not the only ones out there looking for a job.

N.C. Baptist Volunteers Team Up with 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition' By Patty Edwards Shaver

Biblical Recorder On the morning of Nov. 30, Linda and William Riggins of Raleigh received the surprise of a lifetime when the design team of ABC's “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (EMHE) arrived in front of their home to announce that they had been selected to receive a home makeover. Once the word was out, Steve Stancil, on site coordinator of North Carolina Baptist Men (NCBM), who was sworn to secrecy, began making calls to enlist volunteers to help out during the makeover. Normally, it is his job to call out and mobilize people and resources when a disaster occurs. However, this was a unique opportunity for NCBM to serve in an exciting and uplifting circumstance. Familiar with NCBM's work, Linda Dickert, marketing director for Home Life Communities (HLC), contacted the NCBM office in search of a canopy to shelter staff during the makeover. A confidentiality statement was signed and NCBM made preparations to deliver and staff a mobile command unit, which is typically used as a communication center during disaster relief work. During the makeover the command post served as a check in point for volunteers and contractors. It also provided office space for the television program's team leaders, and was equipped with Internet and laptop computer access. NCBM members answer the call "It was 10:34" when Stancil called, said Sonja Hayes. "I know because I looked at my watch." Before Stancil could finish talking, Hayes answered with excitement, "I am so there!" "When is it - What can I do?" she asked. Hayes was off work and on site within an hour and stayed for five days. Hayes, trained in mass feeding and recovery, helped with the demolition of the old house and sheet rocking of the new home. "I felt I was doing something disaster relief related," she said. However, Hayes saw this as a "different kind of ministry" opportunity. She believes Christians should help, minister, love and share the gospel at all times - and that's exactly what she did. "We were able to witness to people who we normally wouldn't be able to," she said. She shared the gospel with a security guard and a construction worker who was working on designer Ty Pennington's secret room. "I love my God and I love to share Him with everyone," she said. John Gore, NCBM vice-president for the Piedmont area, and his wife Peggy of Thomasville also responded to Stancil's call. As John staffed the command unit, Peggy helped carry furniture into the new home, unpacked boxes and stocked the pantry, laundry room and closets. "It was like moving into a new house only with hundreds of volunteers," she said. Volunteers were thrilled to be there and to help in any way they could, Peggy Gore said. "It was wonderful to see all the excitement," she said. "Everyone worked in one accord to help out." As one crew was finishing up, another was waiting to go in.

It is one thing to see the television show, but quite another to actually be there and be involved, Gore said. "All at once it seemed there was a new home; it was almost hard to believe," she said. Even though the cast, crew and volunteers were up 24 hours straight, there was never a harsh word, she said. "Thousands of volunteers were everywhere. It was amazing to how well they all pulled this together - this was well choreographed," Gore said. "I loved every minute of it.“ It's exciting to see how people can work together, said John Gore. "It just shows what people can do when we all pull together," he said. Volunteers took time out to help a family in need giving of their time; many gave up vacations and pay to do this. "I spoke with many volunteers that had a soft spot for giving," said Gore. "Many asked about our organization and the work we do.”I was able to get the word out on what North Carolina Baptist Men is all about." The Riggins family comes home Linda Riggins, associate director for Building Together Ministries (BTM) and recipient of the home makeover, understands the impact volunteers can have on a family and community. Riggins was told that the outpouring of help during her home makeover was so great that thousands of volunteers sat around waiting for their chance to help. After getting registered, volunteers received a badge and T-shirt, then were sent to a holding area to wait for their turn to help. "This was such an incredible gift," said Riggins. "This is a huge blessing," she said. This experience "keeps me hopeful - it makes me pray all the more," she said. As the limousine carrying the Riggins family moved slowly down Poplar Street to the new home, they were greeted by the cheers of thousands of volunteers and people from the community. "I was overcome by the noise of the crowd," Riggins said. "I was overwhelmed with excitement and gratitude. "We are very thankful for ABC and Extreme Makeover for everything and how God used these two vehicles as a perfect gift, and how He used them to bless not only the Riggins family, but also the community." The Building Together Ministries (BTM) facility, located across the street from the Riggins' home, also received a makeover that included a new roof and other improvements. BTM is a Christian organization that provides educational resources for need families in need. When asked what faith message the experience sent to the community, Riggins replied, "The message is based on Christian service to your community. God gives so much - not just physical, but in terms of mental capacity, gifts and talents that are not for us to keep for ourselves, but to give for kingdom building. It is about how people can use their gifts to bless and motivate others. It is an opportunity to live and serve and praise God.“ If Riggins could speak directly to the volunteers who helped with the makeover, "It would be simple and so great: Thank-you," she said. "We know what a great sacrifice this was. Many gave up time with family, communities, churches and paying jobs. We believe that God will reward them. I encourage them to not get tired or weary, but continue to look for opportunities to do good and serve. There's a whole lot more that can be done in the community. Building Together Ministries and many other organizations thrive on volunteers. The superstars are gone. We still have many needy families who can benefit from North Carolina Baptist Men and others.“

By Patty Edwards Shaver Biblical Recorder Pepsi Americas' Sail 2006, an international event held in Beaufort and Morehead City June 30-July 5, provided a unique opportunity for North Carolina Baptists and others to come together, reach out to others and share the gospel message. Law enforcement officers receive blessing As the Pepsi Americas' Sail 2006 event approached, First Baptist Church of Beaufort's pastor, Jack Lee, and members agreed to open the fellowship hall to serve about 15-20 Beaufort law enforcement officers. The primary focus was to offer them a place where they could go to have food, drinks and a place to rest. Little did Lee and the volunteers know the course they charted would take an unexpected turn. "This turned out to be a big to-do," said Josh Ham, youth minister. With temperatures in the mid to upper 90s, the fellowship hall quickly filled up with other law enforcement officers seeking refuge from the sun and heat, he said. After word spread that the church was open, about 100 other officers came from Homeland Security, Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE), State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), county sheriffs, state troopers and security guards. They had nowhere else to go for shade, to rest or to have a meal, said Lee. "It was a God-send," one law enforcement officer told Lee. Officers who were positioned at the North Carolina State Port and the Olde Beaufort Seaport did not "get the blessing," said Lee. And they were later repositioned so they could all have a turn to benefit from the church's hospitality, Lee said. "Everything was impromptu," said Lee. Six or seven church members were instrumental in pulling off the incredible feat that came before them. As the need mushroomed, the volunteers went to area businesses and solicited donations. People in the community heard about the need and brought food to the church, said Lee. "This was totally unintended," Lee said, "but God poured out a blessing." Everyone worked together, even in the heat everyone was nice and polite, Lee said. "But the best part was in seeing God at work in the church members." Youth leaders band together to present gospel message at concert What started out to be a music festival turned into a Christian rock concert targeted for youth to coincide with Pepsi Americas' Sail and July 4 fireworks display. Youth leaders from various denominations in the Beaufort-Morehead City area felt a need to come together and do something to reach area youth. "We wanted to unify our churches and strengthen youth in the area by fellowship and outreach," said Josh Ham, of First Baptist Church in Beaufort. "We can be stronger together," said Austin Fletcher of Bridgeway Church of the Nazerene, Beaufort. "We can all help each other by combining our strengths and overcoming our weaknesses." The July 4 concert was the first major event planned by the youth leaders. First Baptist Church, Morehead City was chosen for the location because it is close to the water. The church is about three blocks away from the waterfront where tall ships, Cisne Branco and Virginia, were visible in moor at the North Carolina Port. Morehead City and Atlantic City fireworks displays were also visible.

Baptists Rigged for Tall Ships Outreach

Organizing the concert took off quickly. Several churches donated money, food and volunteers to make this event happen, said Ham. Charlie Miller, youth minister of the Morehead City church, scoured the neighborhood handing out fliers. Volunteers came forward and jumped right in, saying, "I can do security," and "I can do traffic," said Miller. The goal was to reach 300 youth through fellowship and an evangelistic approach. "We chose the type of music that would attract kids who don't know Christ in hopes that they will turn to Christ," said Miller. "We can't use the same approach that has been used in the past 20 years.”We need to reach their culture." "Decyfer Down," a popular Christian rock band, was chosen to meet the goal. "Life Again," a single from their first album reached No. 1 on the Christian rock charts. "Nevertheless," a music group on the rise from Tennessee and a new local group called "The Infamy" also performed. The gospel message was to be presented before Decyfer Down performed, said Miller. "If we don't get the message through that way, then maybe through the music we will." During the concert, vehicles slowed as they passed by, some even stopped briefly. The church parking lot filled with youth and adults from area churches and the community, while volunteers worked in the gymnasium serving food and drinks and selling music CDs and T-shirts. Callie Head heard about the event from a local newspaper. She and her husband, a youth minister from a local Episcopal church, just moved to the area from Tennessee. "I hoped to find some concerts to attend here," Head said. "We have only been here three days, and I am so happy to have found a concert so soon." She brought her two teenagers and two youth from her new church. Ling Tutt heard the music from down the street while visiting with her sister. The music "sounds good," she said. "I brought my two kids. They are over there in the audience," she said. Tutt said the concert "is a good approach to attract youth in the area." "I think the event is a great success," said Josh Head, a local youth. The music is "spectacular with a good message," he said. The concert "gives kids a place to go and something to do that is Christian," said Whitney Recob, a local teenager. As Decyfer Down prepared to take the stage, Miller, who was holding his toddler daughter, presented the gospel message. Miller introduced his daughter Joy, saying she is adopted. "As Christians we are like that when we become a son or daughter of God," said Miller. Before closing, Miller extended an invitation to those who would like to talk to a pastor about accepting Christ as their Savior. As many adults as youth attended. Many adults were affected spiritually, said Fletcher. They heard "a message that was real," he said. A gentleman who was listening to the music from across the street "felt convicted and came over and asked to talk with a pastor about his desire to change his life around," said Fletcher. David Mills, associational youth director of Parkview Baptist Church of Morehead City, was impressed with how "into it" the adults were. "They seemed as excited as the kids," said Mills. The most interesting adult was a gentleman who came shirtless. He disappeared and later reappeared with a shirt and a Bible in hand and requested to speak to a pastor about salvation, Mills said. "As Decyfer Down was performing, the members of the other two bands were praying for this gentleman," he said. Miller said he was pleased with the event outcome and with the others who volunteered and organized it. "I hope some seeds were planted through the music and the gospel message," said Miller. "This is a new concept in this community, and to have 400 people show up was big, Fletcher said.”We saw the possibilities of what can be done. God is definitely moving in this area. God seems to be moving collectively in the local churches. Not only was the entertainment a success, we were able to build relationships with other leaders. It was successful before the concert even started. We saw the value in working together. As we work in unity... as God says... the world will see that we have something to offer."

Award-Winning Broadcast Journalist, A Good Ally

By Patty E. Shaver Career Choices in North Carolina After gaining vast knowledge and skills many professionals desire to give back by bringing their valuable experiences into the classroom. Considering our current job market and North Carolina’s shortage of teachers, teaching may be an option worth pursuing. But first, you must be a good ally. He moved through the sea of opportunity in the broadcasting world, from tape editing room to news director, and Emmy winner. Now he focuses his time on giving back. Doug Spero, Assistant professor at Meredith College, and partner for Triangle Media Coaching, now teaches students, media professionals, politicians, and non-profit professionals the ins and outs of the broadcasting world. Spero’s original career plan was to be a cameraman or disc jockey. However, when the doors to the newsroom started to open, Spero began to walk through these doors, and soon developed an interest in news broadcasting. Little did he know that he would later end up working for network giants ABC, CBS and NBC. After a fellow classmate told him about an available position at the Mutual Radio Network of New York, Spero started working weekends in an editing room taking in news feed. This part-time job led to several positions in radio and television including public affairs host, Long Island Bureau Chief, field producer, assignment editor, reporter, radio news operations editor, radio network news producer, and news editor. It took fifteen years of perseverance and hard work until he got on the air. From there he advanced to news director for ABC, which required working with interviewers, news writers, producers, general managers, reporters, and people at the assignment desk. To succeed in broadcasting, you have to work well with ideas. You must be curious, aggressive and interested in issues and people—a people person who can communicate and write well. “A high standard of professionalism is necessary in this business,” Spero explains. “One must be honest, responsible, and do the job right. People must be able to count on you.” These are qualities that Spero carries over to teaching. Reflecting back to his college days, Spero reminisced about well-known broadcast professionals from programs like the Jackie Gleason Show who also taught. “There’s nothing better than to have people who have worked in the industry in the classroom,” he stated. “I never forgot what they did and how they helped me. I decided to do what they did. I wanted to give something back.” Spero knew that he needed at least a master’s degree in order to teach. While working as a reporter at CBS News in New York, he attended evening classes at New York Institute of Technology. After reaching this goal, Spero began teaching at East Carolina University as an adjunct professor of Mass Communication. With 30 years of experience in the broadcast industry, Spero offers students and professionals a front row seat to mass communication. In the classroom, Spero’s passion for teaching is evident as he walks about the classroom, gesturing as he speaks and emphasizing his points clearly and articulately. He stresses the importance of supplementing a college education with experience and encourages students to gain valuable work experience while in college. “Broadcasting is tremendously competitive, but if you’ve got the right stuff, and enthusiasm, and you really want it, you can do it.” “Teaching is only part of the game,” Spero remarked. Although he has a hectic schedule and full class sizes, Spero finds time for his students. Feeling the need to help students get ready for the profession, he makes himself available to students after class, assisting them with internships, and placing them in their first job. At this point in Spero’s life, he realizes that winning over 40 awards, including an Emmy for Best Investigation, is not all there is to life. “It’s not about money for me—it’s about helping as many students and non-profit organizations as I can. It’s about seeing them go out in the industry and make it. It’s about giving back, and getting more time with my family and watching my kids succeed.”

Mexican Immigrant Fills Need for Translation and Interpretation Services

By Patty E. Shaver Career Choices in North Carolina As a child living in Mexico, Jackie Metivier did not understand why her father felt so strongly about her learning to speak fluent English. He believed that immersing her in the American culture would be the best way for her to learn English, so he sent her to Colorado to live with family members for one year. As an adult, Metivier moved to America and worked as a bilingual assistant, using her bilingual skills and degree in Mass Communication from the Universidad Intercontinental of Mexico City, Mexico. Metivier saw a need for translation and interpretation services and embarked on a career as an independent translator and formed Bilingual Communications, Incorporated (Bi-Com) where she is president and owner. Due to North Carolina’s growing Latino population, Metivier has seen a tremendous need for translation and interpretation services. Thirteen years ago, Metivier mostly accompanied representatives from local companies with international markets, who were selling products and services in Mexico. Since then, Bi-Com has experienced a large shift. Recent requests for translation and interpretation services now come from local companies who want to communicate with their Latino workforce. These workers used to do seasonal agricultural work—now they are bringing their families and staying while working year round, mostly in construction and service occupations. “Many Hispanics are not familiar with how the culture works—they don’t know the rules,” Metiever explains. Bi-Com seeks to bridge the gap between Hispanics and the American culture. This is accomplished through providing translation and interpretation services to businesses, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, law firms, political candidates, and the Department of Motor Vehicles. The language and cultural barriers among Spanish and English speaking citizens, creates a demand for qualified translators and interpreters in North Carolina. However, being bilingual does not mean one can translate or interpret. An effective interpreter puts personal feelings aside and interprets only what is being said. An interpreter or translator must have a thorough understanding of both languages, possess a nearly perfect use of grammar, and earn a four-year degree. Durham Technical Community College recently introduced a new 18 credit hour certification program for Community Spanish Facilitators. This course specializes in facilitating communication between Spanish speaking individuals and community agency settings. Metivier, like her father, seeks to raise awareness of the importance of being bilingual and using these language skills. She instills this in her children and helps other kids through the NC Society for Hispanic Professionals. Metivier is also president of the Carolina Association of Translator and Interpreters (CATI). CATI consists of 190 members from North Carolina and South Carolina representing 32 languages. Metivier’s family tradition continues.

Doer’s Profile: Phyllis Pearson: The Glory to Glory House of Refuge By Patty Shaver Business Leader Battered by her boyfriend and addicted to drugs and alcohol, a young woman lies in the hospital emergency room. It is here her worst fear is confirmed-- she is HIV positive. Scared and knowing she desperately needs help, the vulnerable woman wonders whom she can trust. The only life she knows is getting high and being beaten by her boyfriend. Powerless and destitute, she lacks steady employment and a safe place to live. Having nowhere else to go, this dejected young woman feels helpless and hopeless. With so many obstacles in her way, she yearns to turn her life around. But from her hospital bed, life seems nothing but bleak. Fortunately, a hospital social worker refers her to The Glory to Glory House of Refuge in Raleigh where she receives the help, encouragement, and builds the courage she needs to pick up the pieces of her shattered life and start over again. This scenario is not based on one troubled woman, but is a story that describes the lives of too many. Built on a dream to offer refuge for women, The Glory to Glory House of Refuge (GGHR) emerged as a community organization that helps homeless women with substance abuse, HIV, AIDS, and mental health issues. This transitional housing program offers full time shelter and support services to clients who are referred from mental hospitals, prisons or drug and alcohol treatment centers in Wake County. To handle this epic problem, GGHR operates from the belief that once basic survival needs are met recovery can begin. Phyllis Pearson, an audit manager with Merritt, Petway, Mills & Hockaday, PA, Certified Public Accountants, fully subscribes to this philosophy. She began volunteering for GGHR in 1999 and is now the board chair. Her 18 years of experience in financial management, federal and state grants, auditing and her work with rural health clinics specializing in HIV/AIDS care offers GGHR an advantage in the tough economy of recent days. “The Glory House has been able to move forward where others [non-profit organizations] have stalled due to the wonderful support of private contributors and county and city governments,” Pearson remarks. Currently, the Glory House has two small facilities in downtown Raleigh: a rental facility soon to be replaced by a recently purchased renovated house and a transitional facility for women who are on their way to a better life. “Small facilities foster a higher comfort level between clients and neighbors, which encourages clients to be better citizens by reintegrating them with the community. This is the beginning phase of building and maintaining healthy, responsible and productive relationships with society,” Pearson believes. As part of the effort to improve the quality of life, each resident is enrolled for eight months to two years and is required to pay rent, take mandatory drug tests and follow a curfew each night. The GGHR not only provides housing in a structured environment and basic needs such as clothing, nutrition and hygiene aids, but also offers health, drug and alcohol counseling, employment assistance, life-skills training and education. “The Glory to Glory House offers a closely knit environment that is very supportive, compassionate and focused on people and their problems,” explains Pearson.