NEWS

SOWER Work Mission celebrates 15th anniversary in 2011!

Next summer marks the 15th anniversary of the SOWER Work Mission at the Epworth Center in Bethesda, Ohio.  In honor of the anniversary celebration, the Epworth Center is highlighting the original motto created 15 years ago, “Sowing seeds of love and kindness by Sharing Our Witness Enriching Relationships.” 

In 1996 a group of individuals created the concept of SOWER to reach out to the local area.  Since then, groups from Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, North and South Carolina, Minnesota, New York, and Georgia have participated in the program.  Since 2000, over 2,500 volunteers have participated in the program, constructing handicap accessible ramps, building decks, repairing roofs, painting and siding homes and churches, and completing many other repairs. 

SOWERS come as servants to help individuals, families, churches and non-profit organizations who cannot afford needed building repairs.  Groups have also assisted local churches in conducing Vacation Bible School.  The Epworth Center is affiliated with The United Methodist Church;  but with an ecumenical focus, welcoming groups from different denominations.

At this year’s annual SOWER Celebration Dinner in October, a recipient of SOWER repair work, Amy, talked about her experiences with SOWER volunteers,  “Our hearts and eyes were opened to the power and grace of God. The SOWERS helped us to better our home and lives, by not only building a deck on our house, but also building our faith and relationships in our family and with God. We have in turn volunteered our time to help others as the Sowers did for us.”

For more information, call 740.484.4705, visit www.epworthcenter.org or friend us on Facebook – Sower Mission.

There is still room available in the 2011 schedule for both full week and weekend work groups.  You can help make a difference! Join us for the celebration!