Ordinary Women's Blog

OWI Invites You to An Exciting Live TBN Taping

2012-01-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

WELCOME TO 2012!

Ordinary Women, Inc.

invites you to join us in the audience at a live studio taping

DATE: THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012

ADDRESS: Trinity Broadcasting Studio

3150 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92711

COST: Free

You must have a reserved seat and arrive by 5:00 PM

(reply to this email to reserve a seat)

Host: Clifton Davis (actor, songwriter, minister)

Guests: Elia English, Jamie Slocum

The proceeds benefit the children in the OWI Orphan Program in Kenya.

Reply to this email for more detailed information.

Thank you for your support!

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC.

If you would prefer not to receive emails from OWI,

please reply to this email with REMOVE as the subject line.

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2012-01-04T02:33:00.001-08:00

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2012-01-04T02:26:00.000-08:00

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2011-12-23T01:46:00.001-08:00

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2011-12-16T02:50:00.001-08:00

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2011-12-07T04:54:00.000-08:00

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2011-12-01T04:33:00.000-08:00

Another great opportunity!

2011-10-13T08:47:00.001-07:00

Another great opportunity to meet Alice,

The President of Ordinary Women - Africa

from Kiminini, Kenya!

_____________

Sunday, October 23, at 3pm

Lifeline Community Fellowship (Kenyan Church)

7037 Orangethorpe Ave

Buena Park, CA 90620

_____________

Great Praise and Worship Team

Speaker: Alice Wanyama Wotia

Fellowship with Kenyan chai, mandazis, samosas … mmm…

Karibu! Welcome!

If you would like to be taken off the OWI contact list, please reply to this email with REMOVE as the subject line.

OWI Kenya Update, October, 2011

2011-10-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Family and Friends of Ordinary Women, Inc. (OWI),

I hope this update finds you and your family well during this fall season. I would like to introduce you to another one of our orphans in our Orphan Program in Kiminini, Kenya. Her name is Rabecca, and she is eighteen years old. Rabecca was born in the Mt. Elgon region in Kenya where she lived with her father, mother, two brothers, and one sister. Her father was a businessman. He used to buy potatoes from the villages, transport them by bicycle to a bigger town, and sell them there. One day while riding his bicycle to town on business, he was hit by a vehicle and killed instantly. This left Rabecca's mother, Emily, a widow with four small children.

During the 2002 Kenya elections, inter-tribal clashes broke out in Kenya. Anyone who was not a member of the dominant tribe in the area was run out by violence. Rabecca's family had to flee for safety, leaving behind their home and their possessions. They fled to Kiminini, hoping to find security and a place where they could rebuild their lives. By the time they got to Kiminini, Emily had run out of money. There is no welfare system in Kenya. Not knowing anyone in town, she didn't know where to turn.

At that time, she went to the Deliverance Church in Kiminini. The church organized a fundraiser to raise enough money to rent a small room for Emily and her children to live. Then, they did another fundraiser and raised enough money for Emily to start a small grocery business in the Kiminini marketplace. This kind of a story is repeated over and over again in Kenya. One or both parents die, and the widow(er) or children have to fend for themselves. Emily, even with her very small business, was struggling to make ends meet for herself and her four children. Many times in these situations, mothers have to make the difficult decision of sending the oldest children to live on the street while she continues to raise the youngest children because she cannot afford to feed and clothe them all. Or the older children have to drop out of school and go to work in the fields or wherever they can find work to help the mother provide for the family.

But this is not what happened to Rabecca and her siblings. The OWI Kenya team in Kiminini saw how Emily could not care for her children as a single mother of four, so they offered to include the four children in the OWI Orphan Program. Emily was so relieved and overjoyed with the help this program provides her. No longer are Rabecca and her siblings starving, as they receive monthly food provision from the program. Emily doesn't have to decide which of her children will not be able to attend school this year because the program provides school uniforms and tuition fees. Emily does not worry what will happen if her children get sick, because the Program also provides de-worming medications, other medications if they become ill, and yearly medical checkups for each of the children and for Emily.

Rabecca was in 6th grade when she and her siblings were invited into the Orphan Program. She is now in high school. Because of you, our generous donors, Rabecca not only dreams of the day she graduates from high school, but she is looking beyond that to a promising and hopeful future.

If you are interested in supporting one of the orphans in our Orphan Program for just $35 a month, please go to our website at www.ordinarywomen.org where you can choose your orphan from the profiles. Or you can write to us at:

                                                          Ordinary Women, Inc.
                                                   26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146
                                                         Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,
Darla Morfin
Ordinary Women, Inc.
Executive Director-OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

An Exciting Event Is Coming!

2011-10-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

Ordinary Women Inc. presents

Breakfast with Alice
The President of Ordinary Women - Africa!

On Saturday, October 22, from 9- 11am at
The Club at Rancho Niguel
24745 Rancho Niguel Road
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Come meet Alice and hear the first hand report on the amazing progress and impact that OWI programs have had in the Kiminini area in Kenya. She'll share how God has taken the ordinary people, like you and me, on an extraordinary journey to change lives of the multitudes.

Continental breakfast will be served.

R.S.V.P. to marjaana@cox.net by October 15. Thank you!

Welcome ! Karibu!

If you would like to be taken off the OWI contact list, please reply to this email with REMOVE as the subject line.

An opportunity to help Ordinary Women Inc.

2011-09-26T19:01:00.001-07:00

Hi friends of Ordinary Women, Inc.

OWI is now participating in Ralphs grocery store Community Contribution Program. This means that if you will register your Ralphs Rewards card, a small percentage of the amount of your shopping order will be donated to OWI each time you shop at Ralphs and swipe your card (or give them the phone number linked to your card). There is no cost to you and this does not interfere with your personal award points.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PROCEDURE TO REGISTER YOUR RALPHS REWARDS CARD ON LINE

1) Go to: www.ralphs.com website

2) Hit the red SERVICES tab at the top of the page

3) Hit Community Contribution option

4) To link your rewards card with Ordinary Women, Inc.:

Under Participant, Hit the ENROLL button

5) Sign in or create an account if you don't have one by clicking on:

Get Started, Sign up Today in the Create an Account section and follow the step-by-step instructions

6) After you create your online account, then link your account with Ordinary Women, Inc. by editing your

Community Contribution Information .

7) "Find your organization":

Enter 93234 or Ordinary Women, Inc. then hit SEARCH

8) Ordinary Women, Inc. will come up as an option - select it and hit SAVE CHANGES

9) That's it! If you go to My Account and select Community Rewards you should see Ordinary Women, Inc.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After you link your card to OWI, your purchases will begin counting for OWI within 72 hours. You will know your Ralphs card is registered successfully because within 7-10 business days you will see on the bottom of your receipt the following blurb: "At your request, Ralphs is donating to Ordinary Women, Inc."

This does not interfere with your individual rewards points.

Do you have a Ralphs Rewards Card but don't remember the number? - call (800) 660-9003.

Please read the FAQs for a better understanding of the program and more information on how to register your card on line.

If you need any help registering your card please contact Ralphs at 1-800-443-4438

Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Thank you so much for your support, we really appreciate it! The proceeds will benefit the children in the Orphan Program.

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC.

Judy McCoy

If you would like your name taken off the OWI contact list, please hit REPLY and put REMOVE in the subject line.

OWI Kenya Update, September, 2011

2011-09-14T13:00:00.001-07:00

Hello Family and Friends of Ordinary Women, Inc., (OWI)

It has been about a month since my return from Kenya. I can't believe it, time has gone by so quickly. We had another great trip to Kenya this year, and I want to share the highlights with you. Each year I go, the trip is very different. It is exciting to see what is going to happen every year.

This year, our team of 22 people consisted of nurses, doctors, social workers, therapists, educators, housewives, entrepreneurs, a high school student, and retirees. We were such a diverse team coming together in unity for the people in Kiminini and the surrounding areas. Each person that goes, pays his or her own way and/or raises the support needed for the trip. In these difficult financial times, I know it took a lot of faith just to get to Kenya, even before the trip started.

The medical team partnered with medical staff from Kenya and went to two different slums neighboring Kiminini. They worked tirelessly for two days, offering a free medical clinic to anyone who walked in. They saw some extreme cases and saved some lives! It was exciting hearing from them each day they returned to the house in the evenings. I think in those two days they saw around 3000 people! The second day I heard they finally took their lunch around 5pm. We had a very dedicated team of medical volunteers this year.

While the medical team worked in the slums, I took a social worker and therapist from our team to meet with our Kenyan social workers and Ordinary Women, Inc Kenyan members. Our US team members told me they loved the enthusiasm of our Kenyan social workers, and their desire to learn more to continue to help our orphans. We provided trainings for the social workers, and the second day, we discussed some of our orphans who may have learning disabilities. There is no testing in the Kenyan schools for learning disabilities. How they handle this issue in Kenya is by the "stick" (this is what I'm told).

On our team this year were two educators from the US who have their PhD's and their specialties in learning disabilities. They met with us the second day to educate the social workers on learning disabilities, assist them in the process of talking to the Kenyan teachers about our orphans who may have learning disabilities and to talk about options for our orphans. I went away from this trip with hope for these identified orphans and a plan to assist them.

Also, we got to go with these two educators to meet their orphans (that they sponsor in our program) for the first time in the orphans' homes. They got to meet not only their orphans, but the orphans' guardians and families as well. There was not a dry eye in those houses. We all cried with joy in these meetings. Then, we went with the social worker from the US, and her daughter who is a junior in high school in the US, to meet the orphan they sponsor at his boarding high school where he lives. The high school has about 120 boys that live there. They were all on the soccer field watching some of them play when we got to the school. They stopped the game while Paul, the orphan walked from the field to meet his sponsor, Margarita and daughter Jada for the first time. Again, another very moving and tear filled union of big hugs between Paul and his sponsors. Each month, these sponsors, just like you, send their sponsorship to support their orphans, and they trust we are doing what we say we do with the money. And when a sponsor gets to meet their orphan in person that they are sponsoring, it is a very emotional and joyous time! This was a great afternoon together!

Each year, the ladies in Kiminini ask for a women's conference. This year, they asked for a conference on how to handle stress in their daily lives. Some of the nurses and doctors on our team shared some ways to lower stress, and then a lady from our US team who grew up in Kenya shared a message on handling stress in life. The Kenyan women shared how they were blessed from the day, and I know I was blessed and encouraged by sharing this time with these strong Kenyan women.

The next day, we had the medical clinics for the yearly checkups for our orphans in our Orphan Program and for their guardians and their families. This was one of the highlights of my trip. All of our orphans are healthy! This is the first year that none of our orphans had to go to the hospital. There were a few who were ill but just needed (and were treated with) antibiotics. They all look very healthy. And, the guardians look healthier and younger than I've seen in previous years! The guardians continue to tell me what a positive difference this Orphan Program has made in their lives, and I saw it in them physically this year. It was amazing to see with my own eyes! I praise God for this!

We also got to visit the OWI Cyber Cafe that opened in January, 2011 as a sustainability project for the Orphan Program. It is up and running with a great staff there to teach internet classes and to assist people in surfing the internet. All three times I visited the Cafe, it was full of people using the computers. It is getting to the point where it is self-sustaining, and our hope is that soon it will begin to bring revenue to the Orphan Program.

We ended our time in Kiminini with going to church with our Kenyan partners and friends on Sunday. In the afternoon, I was invited to an area church to speak in a surrounding village where we drilled one of our deep wells. They had the official opening ceremony of the well (even though they have been using it since it was drilled) while I was there and gave me a drink of the fresh water. It tasted so good! It was a privilege for me to spend the afternoon with the people of Big Tree and to see what a difference in that little community the well has made.

After seeing the majority of the team off to the US, Marjaana, Debbie, and I (three of the Ordinary Women, Inc. board members) stayed in Kenya to visit other programs that are a step or two ahead of us, so we could catch more of the vision for the direction ahead of us. It was such a wonderful trip, and we got so much more accomplished than we could have ever imagined!

And this is all thanks to you, because again, without you, our sponsors, none of our programs in Kenya would be possible. No fresh water wells would be dug, no medical teams would be able to go (the medicines and medical supplies used in the medical clinics are all donated), and we would have no Orphan Program. So, thank you!

If you are interested in supporting one of the orphans in our Orphan Program for just $35 a month, please go to our website at www.ordinarywomen.org where you can choose your orphan from the profiles. Or you can write to us at:

Ordinary Women, Inc.
26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146
Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,
Darla Morfin
Ordinary Women, Inc.
Executive Director-OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

TBN taping - September 29, 2011

2011-09-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hi friends of Ordinary Women, Inc.

Would you like to learn more about good health and how to take care of your body? The next TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) taping is Thursday, September 29^th, and the guests will be talking about taking care of your health. Come and join us as part of the live audience. This is an enjoyable way to spend an evening and TBN will make a donation to OWI on your behalf – there is no cost to you!

The proceeds benefit the children in the OWI Orphan Program in Kenya, specifically school uniforms and food.

Thursday, September 29^th – Taking Care of Your Health

Hosts: Matt & Laurie Crouch

Guests: Dr. Scott Hannon (Chiropractor), Dr. Thomas Barnes, Dr. Jordan Rubin (Nutrition),

Dr. Richard Boener (Dentist)

*****Here are some answers to questions you might have*****

Yes, I want to come – what do I need to do?

Reply to this email or directly to Judy at judykmccoy@cox.net to put your name on the list to reserve seats for you and your family/friends. Feel free to forward this email to your small groups and friends.

How much will this cost me?

There is no cost to you, this is a freebie! TBN will pay OWI a $20 stipend for each person in our group.

Where am I supposed to go?

Trinity Broadcasting Studio, 3150 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92711

The studio is on the second floor of the ornate white building near South Coast Plaza.

There is ample free parking through the white gates in front of the building.

What time should I arrive?

We need to be seated in the studio by 5:00.

The seating in the studio is limited and is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Late-comers will be seated in the overflow room.

What if I cannot arrive until after 5:00?

If you will let Judy know you are definitely coming but will be late, she can save you a seat in the studio. Our telephones must be silent in the studio but you can text Judy at (949) 233-5340.

If you arrive after the studio door is closed, knock softly on the door - a TBN staff member is posted at the door to let you in, just say you are with Ordinary Women.

What time does the actual taping begin?

The actual taping is from 6:00 PM to 8:00PM

Can I cut out early?

Ordinary Women, Inc. will receive from TBN a $20 stipend for each person that stays until the end for a group picture, so we ask that you please stay for the picture.

Can I invite my family, friends and small groups?

Absolutely! We encourage this - but let Judy know their names as we must provide TBN with a list so they know how many seats in the studio to save for our group. We must turn in the list by September 22nd.

What If I do not have my name on the TBN list and decide to come at the last minute?

You are welcome to come to the taping even though your name is not on the list.

If you arrive by 5:00 you will be seated with the group in the studio.

Who do I contact to add or remove names from the TBN list or to ask questions?

Feel free to contact Judy McCoy at judykmccoy@cox.net or call Judy at (949) 233-5340.

We really appreciate your support! Hope to see you there!

If you would like to be taken off the OWI contact list, please reply to this email with REMOVE as the subject line.

Team goes home

2011-08-09T05:02:00.001-07:00

The team left a few
days ago except for Darla, Marjaana and I. There were some
organisations here that our friends in Buena Park wanted us to visit.
Steven and Rosemary Mbogo have a home for orphans in Ngong and we had
the opportunity to see their program. We also visited David and
Esther's school outside of the city of Nakuru, about halfway between
Naiobi and Kitale. What a blessing both these programs are to the
children of these areas. Alice, the president of OWI Africa met us at
the latter school and was able to stay with us for two nights. The
first night we met with our friends Greg and Deb Snell in Navasha.
They have been building a home for guests coming to Kenya for the last
few years and it is 99% finished. We were invited to dinner and then
stayed over at a friends cottage. She took us on a tour of the city
the next day and we talked all about her hopes and plans for the
future. Thanks Deb and Greg for your hospitality! After Darla left on
Sunday, Marjaana and I stayed on to wait for another team of three to
arrive . This team is under Marjaana's private tour company; The
Traveling Twiga. We will be returning to Kitale with the three for an
introduction of what OWI does in Kiminini. After four days there, they
will head out for a three day safari resort stay in the Masai Mara.
This is where my trip ends and I fly home. I've enjoyed my time in
Kenya but miss my family and friends very much. In the meantime we are
currently in Mombasa on the east coast of Kenya with our friends from
the US. Mumbi, her mom, Jeri and Lavin, her 9 year old son. We
traveled by overnight bus on Sunday to Mumbasa to see the sights and
get some much needed rest. The weather is warm and breezy with a bit
of humidity. The team left a few days ago except for Darla, Marjaana
and I. There were some organisations here that our friends in Buena
Park wanted us to visit. Steven and Rosemary Mbogo have a home for
orphans in Ngong and we had the opportunity to see their program. We
also visited David and Esther's school outside of the city of Nakuru,
about halfway between Naiobi and Kitale. What a blessing both these
programs are to the children of these areas. Alice, the president of
OWI Africa met us at the latter school and was able to stay with us
for two nights. The first night we met with our friends Greg and Deb
Snell in Navasha. They have been building a home for guests coming to
Kenya for the last few years and it is 99% finished. We were invited
to dinner and then stayed over at a friends cottage. She took us on a
tour of the city the next day and we talked all about her hopes and
plans for the future. Thanks Deb and Greg for your hospitality! After
Darla left on Sunday, Marjaana and I stayed on to wait for another
team of three to arrive . This team is under Marjaana's private tour
company; The Traveling Twiga. We will be returning to Kitale with the
three for an introduction of what OWI does in Kiminini. After four
days there, they will head out for a three day safari resort stay in
the Masai Mara. This is where my trip ends and I fly home. I've
enjoyed my time in Kenya but miss my family and friends very much. In
the meantime we are currently in Mombasa on the east coast of Kenya
with our friends from the US. Mumbi, her mom, Jeri and Lavin, her 9
year old son. We traveled by overnight bus on Sunday to Mumbasa to see
the sights and get some much needed rest. The weather is warm and
breezy with a bit of humidiThe team left a few days ago except for
Darla, Marjaana and I. There were some organisations here that our
friends in Buena Park wanted us to visit. Steven and Rosemary Mbogo
have a home for orphans in Ngong and we had the opportunity to see
their program. We also visited David and Esther's school outside of
the city of Nakuru, about halfway between Naiobi and Kitale. What a
blessing both these programs are to the children of these areas.
Alice, the president of OWI Africa met us at the latter school and was
able to stay with us for two nights. The first night we met with our
friends Greg and Deb Snell in Navasha. They have been building a home
for guests coming to Kenya for the last few years and it is 99%
finished. We were invited to dinner and then stayed over at a friends
cottage. She took us on a tour of the city the next day and we talked
all about her hopes and plans for the future. Thanks Deb and Greg for
your hospitality! After Darla left on Sunday, Marjaana and I stayed on
to wait for another team of three to arrive . This team is under
Marjaana's private tour company; The Traveling Twiga. We will be
returning to Kitale with the three for an introduction of what OWI
does in Kiminini. After four days there, they will head out for a
three day safari resort stay in the Masai Mara. This is where my trip
ends and I fly home. I've enjoyed my time in Kenya but miss my family
and friends very much. In the meantime we are currently in Mombasa on
the east coast of Kenya with our friends from the US. Mumbi, her mom,
Jeri and Lavin, her 9 year old son. We traveled by overnight bus on
Sunday to Mumbasa to see the sights and get some much needed rest. The
weather is warm and breezy with a bit of humidity. ty.

Join OWI for August 18th TBN taping

2011-08-05T15:35:00.000-07:00

Hi friends of Ordinary Women, Inc.

We hope you are enjoying your summer! We wanted to let you know that the next TBN (Trinity Broadcasting

Network) taping is Thursday, August 18^th. Come and join us in the live audience of the studio taping. This is an

enjoyable way to spend an evening and TBN will make a donation to OWI on your behalf – there is no cost to you.

The money donated will be used to purchase food for the children in the Ordinary Women, Inc. Orphan Program. So

Mark your calendars and come on out – we would love to see you!

*****SCHEDULE*****

Thursday, August 18th

Host: Paul Crouch, Jr.

Guests: Pastor Raul Ries, Bob Hamer (former FBI), Chaplain Bob Barnett (fire Dept.),Tammy Trent

Thursday, September 29^th – Taking Care of Your Health

Host: Matt & Laurie Crouch

Guests: Dr. Scott Hannon (Chiropractor), Dr. Thomas Barnes, Dr. Jordan Rubin (Nutrition),

Dr. Richard Boener (Dentist)

*****Here are some answers to questions you might have*****

Yes, I want to come – what do I need to do?

Reply to Judy at judykmccoy@cox.net to put your name on the list to reserve seats for you and your

family/friends. Feel free to forward this email to your small groups and friends.

How much will this cost me?

There is no cost to you, this is a freebie! TBN will pay OWI a $20 stipend for each person in our group.

Where am I supposed to go?

Trinity Broadcasting Studio, 3150 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92711

The studio is on the second floor of the ornate white building near South Coast Plaza.

There is ample free parking through the white gates in front of the building.

What time should I arrive?

We must be seated in the studio by 5:00 at the latest.

The seating in the studio is limited and is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Late-comers will be seated in the overflow room.

What if I cannot arrive until after 5:00?

Its okay, come when you can. If you let Judy know you are definitely coming but will be late, she can save you

a seat in the studio.

What time does the actual taping begin?

The actual taping is from 6:00 PM to 8:00PM

Can I cut out early?

Ordinary Women, Inc. will receive from TBN a $20 stipend for each person that stays until the end for a

group picture, so we ask that you please stay for the picture.

Can I invite my family, friends and small groups?

Absolutely! We encourage this - but let us know their names as we must provide TBN with a list so they

know how many seats in the studio to save for our group. We must turn in the list by August 11^th.

What If I do not have my name on the TBN list and decide to come at the last minute?

It is no problem. You are welcome to come to the taping even though your name is not on the list.

If you arrive by 5:00 you will be seated with the group in the studio.

Who do I contact to add or remove names from the TBN list or to ask questions?

Feel free to contact Judy McCoy at judykmccoy@cox.net or call Judy at (949) 233-5340.

We really appreciate your support!

If you would like to be taken off the OWI contact list, please reply to this email with REMOVE as the subject line.

Orphan Day

2011-08-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

Since the day we arrived till this day the weather has been good with just a small amount of rain each day but then the night after the medical clinics (which was a blessing) it poured most of the night On Friday it rained in the late afternoon right after the women left for home from the conference lots of them came from far away and this downpour was not the kind that you would keep walking in The pastors wife had to take refuge in the generator room just a few feet away from the office where we all were until the rain stopped With the Orphan Day coming up on Saturday we were praying for a clear day If it rained at all the kids wouldn't be able to play with the new balls and jump ropes we had purchased for them Saturday was start off early as there was to be a medical check up for each orphan before their crafts and party One of our biggest challenges is not having enough hands to finish things on time but with over 20 volunteers we thought we would be organized but nothing goes as planned in Kenya this time our van did not arrive at the time we had set that morning But despite the late start we rushed to get set up the kids were waiting for us and we were able to finish in time for the party Unfortunately it started to rain mid morning and the kids had to be moved inside the church for coloring projects and some crafts The kids didn't seem to mind The party started with the kids singing and reciting poems It's amazing how they can memorize a very long poem! Now came the time to sing happy birthday to them and cut the cake Every orphan got a new backpack along with some personal items school supplies and candy They were so excited to receive these things....they don't just get a new pencil or a bar of soap when they run out They have to wait until there is enough shillings from the sale of some vegetables in the garden or go gather firewood to sell at the market and then only after the daily needs are met is a pencil purchased So when we come with these gifts they are so happy thank you to all sponsors that helped to make it possible for these extra items to be purchased The day ended with an appreciation dinner held by OWI and GHP, an org that we are a part of and who helped support the medical clinics with money for medicine and people to do the work A long but satisfying day!

Sent from my iPhone

Women's conference

2011-07-29T13:43:00.000-07:00

First stop this morning was to the OWI Global Cyber Cafe This was started in Jan of this year to help the Orphan Program begin to take care of itself As any new business it is working out the bugs but doing well The cafe has 8 computers 2 printers and soon a scanner Very impressive and promising as it is the only one in the Kiminini Market just across from the OWI base at the church Next stop was the church where the women of the surrounding communities had already arrived drinking tea and having bread and butter sandwiches In Kenya there is always refreshment and a bit of socializing before work When the music started it was like a call to come and many more women filled the church dancing and singing in worship The topic of the seminar was stress an issue in any country for women dealing with family work and life in general Our drs in the group gave helpful ways to reduce stress thru deep breathing which made most laugh but they tried it and agreed that it helped The next dr talked about how to identify tension in the body and how to relax those areas Our dr from Uganda spoke about how you took care of yourself could affect your stress levels along with caring for your body with the proper nutrition Last but not least was the segment on massage This was very interesting to all and almost everyone got to experience how this truly worked by taking turns giving massage to their neighbors For the next portion of the program the guardians of the OP came on stage to welcome us back with song and dancing Kenyans love to dance and sing as you can tell by how many times it is in the programs they put on A testimony from a friend from the US church in Buena Park ended the speakers then the singers gave one last 15 min finish song and dance We don't have to worry about gaining weight here we are always asked to join them up front and they never get tired!! A meal was prepared for the women that attended the conference and they started for home All of a sudden the clouds blew in thunder and lighting started to flash and clap then rain that sounded like it would knock the building down, not that the Kenyans looked worried I thought about the poor women walking home and wondering if they were close enough to some kind of cover to get out of the rain until it stopped Finally we sent the team home and OWI US had a meeting with OWI Kenya It was a long but satisfying day

Sent from my iPhone

Kipsongo and Matisi med clinics

2011-07-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday and today we have been seriously busy at these two clinics Kipsongo brought over 1500 sick people for our drs and nurses to treat It was an overwhelming sight to see and by the time we were thru we felt the tired thankfulness that we could be used to that extent After a meeting with the team on some of the things we saw and how we could have made it run smoother we jumped into bed only to get up a few hrs later to do it again in Matisi This location was at least an actual medical clinic and it made it easier to set up and we got started rapier We arrived at 730am and already there was along lint of moms with several children each waiting to be seen Our plan was to leave the clinic gates open until 400pm then close them and treat those who had a number but by 230pm we had reached our limit and had to shut the gates early When people hear that a clinic is in the area and hear it is free they spread the word fast bringing even more people than the immediate area Needless to say we saw just as many as the day before if not moreTomorrow there is no clinic but our schedule is none the slower we will be at our women's conference and several of the drs will be speaking at the Kitale District Hospital

Sent from my iPhone

Hospital/school visits

2011-07-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

Some have recovered from the jet lag and others are still feeling the effects. Most of the team was up and moving by 6am if not earlier. Our plans for the day was to divide into two groups, one to go visit the district hospital and the other to visit an elementary school. Having already seen the district hospital, I went to the school. We came back together for lunch in Kitale town, sharing our experiences. Of course the team that went to the hospital saw pain and suffering but also faithful Drs. and nurses that cared and did all they could to comfort and heal as best they could. The school team on the other hand saw smiling faces and got lots of "how are you" greetings. But still the standard of the classrooms, amount of kids per class along with the lack of resources.....not to mention the challenges that the teachers faced in trying to teach these precious kids made us wonder how anyone got through it without becoming discouraged. Today eyes were opened to the harsh realities that people face daily here in this country. Today we had three new team members arrive two Drs from Ca and a Dr from Uganda. This evening the team spread out the medicines all over the sitting room and began the job of packaging the pills in individual doses. It was a long night but they got it done. Marjaana and I had the opportunity to meet with the head of the chamber if commerce of the transnzoia area of which Kitale and Kiminini are a part of and the vice mayor of the same area also. Tomorrow the first of our three medical clinics, the first at Kipsongo slum

Sent from my iPhone

Flight and first night in Kenya

2011-07-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Our arrival to the Tom Bradley terminal with 16 travelers and twice as many pieces of luggage could have caused alot of frustration but it went very smoothly! The team breezed thru and we boardedthe airplane for the very long first leg of our trip...15 hrs to Dubai. Then a quick walk to our next flight of 5 hrs to Nairobi. By the time we got thru customs and picked up our bags at 7pm Kenya time, we were ready for a good nights sleep. After breakfast the next morning we headed back to the airport for our final flight to Kitale. As we weaved our way thru the the morning rush hour traffic, the familiar sights and the smell of the cooking fires brought back memories of previous trips. Most of our team has not been to Kenya and it was exciting to see the country from their perspective. Our host for the week has provided a very comfortable place for us and we are looking forward to tomorrow when we will go shopping in Kitale for the medical supplies and other needs so that we can start preparing for the medical clinic that will be on Wednesday.

Sent from my iPhone

Flight out of LA and first night

2011-07-25T00:12:00.000-07:00

Our flight began at the Tom Bradley terminal with 16 travelers and double that amount in check in bags! The rest of our team met up with us in Nairobi. The long 15 hr flight to Dubai and then the next considerably shorter one to Nairobi, 5 hrs, went smoothly and the entire team was comfortable. After we collected our bags and boxes the majority of the team headed for the guest house for the night. Marjaana and I along with Gideon our driver and Dr Senessie waited for another traveler from the UK. The jetlag was beginning to hit me and I was glad to finally get to bed at midnight. Breakfast found the team refreshed and ready for the next leg of our trip...to Kitale and our final destination,Kiminini for the week. As we navigated the morning rush hour traffic back to the airport, the familiar sight and smells of the cooking fires welcomed us back. Karibu! Welcome! It's the beginning of lots of good things....to God be the glory!

Sent from my iPhone

First day Nairobi leaving for Kitale

2011-07-24T23:20:00.000-07:00

Our arrival to Tom Bradley terminal went smoothly with no mishaps. With 16 flying from LA and double that in check ins, you can imagine how one overweight bag could hold up the team. But that was not the case. The flight to Dubai was a long 15 hrs and then another 5 hrs to Nairobi. Can you believe there was no complaints? Its true, everyone was comfortable, we have a great team and I'm looking forward to the week. Once we got thru customs, the majority of our team went to the guest house while Marjaana and I along with our friend Dr. Senessie from Switzerland waited for our UK team member at the airport. Breakfast this morning told us that all slept well and are ready for the next flight to Kiminini. As we navigate the Nairobi traffic to catch our flight to our final destination, the familiar sights and smells of the cooking fires welcome me back. Today we will go to the church and greet our OWI Kenya counterparts and then settle into our guest house for the week while in Kiminini.

Sent from my iPhone

From the team leader

2011-07-13T08:37:00.001-07:00

Here are some more highlights of what we will be doing while in Kenya from our team leader Marjaana: The annual Women's Conference usually draws 300-400 women, who have been asking about the upcoming conference since February! There will be lots of singing and dancing, laughter and even tears, as we share our life experiences and discuss their requested topic of Coping with Stress - approaching it from the spiritual perspective as well as from the clinical side.

The mobile medical clinics have expanded even further. This year we have several doctors and nurses in our team in addition to our partner doctors from Switzerland, U.K., Uganda and from elsewhere in Kenya joining our hosting medical community in Kitale town. It is very exciting to see the collaborative efforts bearing fruit! We will facilitate the clinics in two slums, a church (our orphans and guardians) and a small team will treat a remote village. Many of the people have never seen a doctor before, as they live on less than $2 a day, so there is no money to go seek medical care anywhere. Thousands will be receiving free treatment - and hope in knowing that somebody cares about them. Many have testified that they feel that God has answered their prayer by sending us from the other side of the world to help them.

Our doctors will also do a health seminar for the Kenyan health care workers. The social workers will have their own training meetings with their Kenyan counterparts and the teachers will volunteer in a school. I will be meeting with a potential future president of Kenya about the success and expansion of our community development programs, which I am very excited about. Just hoping for his favorable word when our Kenyan chapter is applying for government grants there. At least he is interested enough to discuss it!

OWI upcoming trip

2011-07-07T22:42:00.000-07:00

Hi all,
Well this is definitely an exciting time for me and for OWI, as we are busy preparing for the annual trip to Kenya July 23rd. I have been preparing for so long that I can't believe it's only 2 weeks away! This year we are traveling with 22! Its a great team of all sorts of people...doctors, nurses, teachers, and young energetic teens!
As I carefully think through the packing of my bags so as not to exceed the weight limit, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to once again be able to make this trip. God has been gracious to me in allowing me to go once again.

As you can see on the itinerary below, we will be doing many things while in Kiminini. There will be a Women's Conference, 2 public medical clinics and one for our orphans along with the Orphan Day especially for them. This is the day that the orphans look forward to all year long and we hope to make it as special as we can. On this day the orphans and their guardian families will come for a fun day of activities, crafts, a healthy lunch and then we will end the day with a huge birthday cake lit with candles to celebrate their birthdays. Birthday gifts of school items, personal items and some treats are given to each orphan along with a personal card from their sponsors. It's such a sweet sight to see the excitement in their eyes! The orphans themselves have also been planning a special event to present to us, spending lots of hours learning poetry, songs and dances to entertain us. This is a treat we are so looking forward to!

I will be staying a few days after the team leaves with two others from OWI. We will be visiting other organizations around Kenya and looking into how we might be able to join hands with them in helping to support the children in other areas of this precious country.

Most of our prayer needs are of course, for safe travel and good health. Also when we are in country, there are many sights and stories that are heart breaking which can make us feel inadequate in how little we can do. By trying to "fix" situations we could cause more harm than good. Please pray that we can be good listeners and act as God would want us to, not how we think we should.

I will be blogging as much as I can on what is going on when I can. Just go to www.ordinarywomen.org and click on the "Visit the OWI Blog" link on the top left side of the site. Become a follower to get updated about the trip.

I look forward to sharing with you all.

Debbie

Tentative Itinerary

7/23 Sat Depart LAX at 9:45AM

7/24 Sun Arrive in Nairobi at 7:05PM. Overnight at Gracia Guesthouse.

7/25 Mon Fly to Kitale in AM. Get settled in Guest House.

Afternoon/evening visit with hosts and medical team

7/26 Tue AM - Visit to school / SW Meeting

PM - Preparation for clinics and OP day

7/27 Wed Clinic Day at Kipsongo: Health talk + medical, HIV testing

SW meeting /Training

7/28 Thu Clinic Day at Matisi: Health talk + medical, HIV testing

SW meeting / Training

7/29 Fri 8 – 10 - Seminar for Health Care workers at Kitale District Hosp.

10 - 4 - Women's Conference : Dealing with Stress

7/30 Sat AM - Clinic for Orphans / Guardians/ Crafts & Games for kids

PM - Orphans' Annual Birthday Party PM

Appreciation Event (evening) for clinic Health Care workers

7/31 Sun Church

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Debbie
"We are moved by our love for Him!"
_______________
949 280-7987
Ordinary Women, Inc.
Joining Hands for Global Change
26861 Trabuco Rd. Suite E-146
Mission Viejo, Ca 92691-3535
www.ordinarywomen.org

2011-07-07T22:16:00.000-07:00

Test

REMINDER ABOUT TBN TAPING JUNE 16th

2011-06-10T16:32:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to remind you that the Ability in Disability TBN taping is next Thursday, June 16, 2011.

This should be a pretty inspirational program as we learn about the ministries of these Godly people in spite of tough circumstances.

For those of you who have already let us know you are coming – thank you!

For those of you who would like to come and have not let us know – please do so now as we need to reserve a seat for you in the studio or you will be seated in the overflow room.

For those of you who are not able to come – keep our future TBN dates in mind:

Thursday, August 18th

Host: Paul Crouch, Jr.

Guests: Bob Hamer, (former FBI), Chaplain Bob Barnett (fire Dept.)

Tammy Trent, Pastor Raul Ries

Thursday, September 15th

Host: John Tesh

Guests: To be announced

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*****Here are some answers to questions you might have*****

Yes, I want to come – what do I need to do?

Reply to this email so we can put your name on the list to reserve seats in the studio. You can come at the last minute, but you will view the taping from the overflow room. Feel free to invite your small groups and friends.

How much will this cost me?

There is no cost to you, this is a freebie! TBN will pay OWI a $20 stipend for each person in our group that stays until the end for a group picture

Where am I supposed to go?

Trinity Broadcasting Studio, 3150 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92711

The studio is on the second floor of the ornate white building near South Coast Plaza.

There is ample free parking through the white gates in front of the building.

What time should I arrive?

We will start gathering at 4:30 and must be seated in the studio by 5:00.

The seating in the studio is limited and is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you are definitely coming but will arrive after 5:00 then let us know and we can try to save you a seat in the studio.

Who do I contact to add or remove names from the TBN list or to ask questions?

Feel free to email info@ordinarywomen.org or call Judy McCoy at (949) 233-5340.

We hope to see you on Thursday – June 16^th!

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC.

Judy McCoy

If you no longer wish to receive emails from OWI then REPLY to this email and put REMOVE in the Subject Line.

Kenyan Event THIS SATURDAY – June 4th!

2011-06-02T10:45:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends of OWI ~

Just a few days remain until the Care for Kenya's Kids fundraiser on Saturday at 11 am to benefit the children in the Ordinary Women, Inc. Orphan Program.

This event will provide a little taste of Kenya with a Kenyan luncheon, live music, and an auction. This auction will be a 'Kenyan style' auction with fast-paced, interactive bidding, so bring cash in small bills for the bidding.

Lifeline Community Fellowship

(building says Holy City Church)

7037 Orangethorpe

Buena Park, CA 90621

Thank you to those of you who are not able to attend but have sent a donation!

God bless ~

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC. - Joining Hands for Global Change

Judy McCoy

SUPPORT THE KENYAN ORPHANS THIS SUMMER

2011-05-28T19:12:00.001-07:00

TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) is offering you three opportunities to support OWI this summer. Come and be in the live audience of the studio tapings. This is an enjoyable way to spend an evening and TBN will make a donation to OWI on your behalf – there is no cost to you!

The money earned will be sent to Kenya to help support the children in the OWI Orphan Program. So mark your calendars and come on out – we would love to see you!

*****SCHEDULE*****

Thursday, June 16th Ability in Disability

Host: Paul Crouch, Jr.

Guests: Joni Earecson Tad, Brian Arnold, Kevin & Alex Malarkey,

Renee Bondi, Jason Black

Thursday, August 18th

Host: Paul Crouch, Jr.

Guests: Bob Hamer, (former FBI), Chaplain Bob Barnett (fire Dept.)

Tammy Trent, Pastor Raul Ries

Thursday, September 15th

Host: John Tesh

Guests: To be announced

*****Here are some answers to questions you might have*****

Yes, I want to come – what do I need to do?

Reply to this email so we can put your name on the list to reserve seats for you and your family/friends.

Feel free to forward this email to your small groups and friends.

How much will this cost me?

There is no cost to you, this is a freebie! TBN will pay OWI a $20 stipend for each person in our group that stays until the end for a group picture

Where am I supposed to go?

Trinity Broadcasting Studio, 3150 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92711

The studio is on the second floor of the ornate white building near South Coast Plaza.

There is ample free parking through the white gates in front of the building.

What time should I arrive?

We will start gathering at 4:30 and must be seated in the studio by 5:00.

The seating in the studio is limited and is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

What if I cannot arrive until after 5:00?

It's okay, come when you can. You will either be seated in the studio or in the overflow room and will gather with the rest of the group afterwards for the group picture.

What time does the actual taping begin?

The actual taping is approximately 6:00 PM to 8:00PM

Can I cut out early?

Ordinary Women, Inc. will receive from TBN a $20 stipend for each person that stays until the end for a group picture, so we ask that you please stay for the picture.

Can I invite my family, friends and small groups?

Absolutely! We encourage this - but let us know their names as we must provide TBN with a list so they know approximately how many seats in the studio to save for us.

What If I do not have my name on the TBN list and decide to come at the last minute?

It is no problem. You are welcome to come to the taping even though your name is not on the list. If you arrive by 5:00 you will be seated with the group in the studio.

Who do I contact to add or remove names from the TBN list or to ask questions?

Feel free to email info@ordinarywomen.org or call Judy McCoy at (949) 233-5340.

We really hope you can join us!

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC.

Judy McCoy

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

OWI Kenya Update, April, 2011

2011-04-21T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends and Family of Ordinary Women, Inc., (OWI)

As we prepare our hearts for this Easter season, let us remember how much we have to be grateful for. Ordinary Women, Inc. is thankful for your ongoing support to our Orphan Program in Kenya. Without you, this program would not exist, and these orphans would not be getting a second chance at life. We are eternally grateful to you.

I want to introduce you to Ezekiel, a precious little eight year old in our program. Ezekiel's parents married in 2002, and Ezekiel was born in 2003. After his parents had been married for three years, Ezekiel's father became ill with HIV and passed away one year later. Shortly after his death, Ezekiel's mother became ill. She was tested for HIV, and she was found to be HIV+ as well. The diagnosis shocked her deeply, leading to a hospital stay of three months. She then had a stroke that paralyzed the entire right side of her body, altering her speech and movement.

During this time, because of Ezekiel's mother being so ill and not able to care for him, Ezekiel went to live with his grandmother. At the beginning of our Orphan Program in Kenya, Ezekiel was identified as a child at risk and in need of support to survive. He was accepted into the Orphan Program.

Ezekiel was provided with a mattress, blankets, and a mosquito net to protect him from mosquitoes that cause malaria. He was also provided a school uniform, which is mandatory in Kenya to go to school, and his preschool fees were paid for school entry. (In Kenya, all children have to attend preschool before entering first grade). He was given a backpack, shoes, socks, a sweater, and is given basic medical care. His grandmother is given a monthly supply of food for Ezekiel which helps her as she cannot support him on her own.

When first coming into the Orphan Program, Ezekiel was very angry and rebellious to those around him. He had been traumatized from losing his father and from his mother becoming so ill. As the social workers in the Orphan Program began visiting Ezekiel, he and his grandmother came to the monthly meetings with the social workers, and he learned that he is loved and cared for. Ezekiel's attitude has changed, and he is very active in the Orphan Program as well as very grateful for it. He is not sure if his dream is to be a teacher or a pilot, but he now knows that he can dream, and that he has a future.

In this story, not only has Ezekiel's and his grandmother's lives been changed, but his mother's as well. She has been taking her anti-retroviral medication for HIV, and her life has significantly improved. She says that she wants to live and witness her child graduate from high school and work like other professionals. This is so exciting! Through the Orphan Program, the orphans are not the only ones being impacted and receiving the blessings from you, but many others as well. Thank you, thank you for your ongoing support!

If you are interested in supporting one of the orphans in our Orphan Program for just $35 a month, please go to our website at www.ordinarywomen.org where you can choose your orphan from the profiles. Or you can write to us at:

Ordinary Women, Inc.
26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146
Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,
Darla Morfin
Ordinary Women, Inc.
Executive Director-OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

OWI Garage Sale

2011-04-19T19:14:00.000-07:00

Ordinary Women, Inc. is having a GARAGE SALE!

When: Saturday, April 30, 2011

Time: 8:00 – 12:00 am

Where: Judy McCoy's house

28651 Rancho Maralena

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

All proceeds will benefit the OWI Orphan Program

We have general garage sale items and LOTS of BOOKS!

This garage sale is in conjunction with the Rancho Niguel neighborhood garage sale so there will be other garage sales in the neighborhood.

So come on out and see what treasures you can find!

Hope to see you April 30^th!

Please pass this flyer on to anyone you know who might be interested.

Ordinary Women, Inc.

Judy McCoy

(949) 233-5340

If you wish to be taken off the OWI mailing list, please reply to this email with REMOVE in the subject line and we will be happy to remove you from our contact lists.

OWI Kenya Update, March 2011

2011-03-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends and Family of Ordinary Women, Inc., (OWI)

I hope this finds you well and thriving in 2011. Our Orphan Program in Kiminini, Kenya, continues to change lives, one life at a time. It is so exciting to watch!

Today, I want to introduce you to Bramwel. He is 11 years old and is in the 5th grade. He has two sisters, a 6th grader and a 1st grader, who are also in our Orphan Program.

Bramwel was born in a home with the mother and father intact. Bramwel's father was a businessman doing work throughout Kenya and Uganda. In 2005, Bramwel's father went to Uganda for business and never returned. Bramwel's mother doesn't know if he was killed or what happened to him. So, Bramwel's mom was left to support herself and her three children which came to be an impossible task. In 2008, these three children were accepted into the Orphan Program under the care of their mother. However, in 2009, Bramwel's mother brought Bramwel and his two sisters to the Orphan Program office and left them there while she ran an errand. She didn't return.

In Kenya, when children are abandoned like this, they end up living on the streets. Without the Orphan Program, it is likely Bramwel and his sisters would have been forced to live on the streets. If these three young children lived on the streets, they would be dirty, in tattered clothes, hungry, eating out of garbage piles, with no safe or warm place to sleep, and probably addicted to sniffing glue. Most of the street children in Kenya are addicted to glue to ward off the emotional, mental, and physical pain of living on the streets and feeling unwanted.

But this is not what happened to Bramwel and his sisters. The Orphan Program staff and one of the supporting churches of the Orphan Program immediately went to work to try to find a temporary placement for these three precious children. What they came up with were a few rooms at the church, where there's a kitchen and bathrooms. They recruited a couple of women to come in and stay with the children and take care of them. So, they set up their "temporary house" right there at the church and made due with what they had. They tried to locate the children's mother as well as other family members or another guardian to take them in. All the while, the children were fed, clothed, cared for, and monitored closely by the social work staff of the Orphan Program.

After six months, the maternal grandmother of the three children was located. She lives in Western Kenya. Patrick, the Director of the Orphan Program, traveled to meet the grandmother, to present the situation of her grandchildren to her, and to see if she would be interested in taking in her grandchildren with the assistance of the Orphan Program. She was so happy to hear of her grandchildren. She hadn't heard from her daughter or her grandchildren for years and thought they had moved to Uganda.

Even though she is very much a senior citizen, she willingly took in her grandchildren. Patrick went to the local school in their area and explained the situation of the children and asked that they be accepted into the school. The Principal welcomed them in. Bramwel now leads his class in academics and in good behavior! He is being very successful in his life and wants to be a pilot someday.

Bramwel's mother came back in 2010, and the social workers soon found out it was mainly for the food provided by the Orphan Program. So the children have not been returned to her, but she visits them at the grandmother's house.

The children's social worker, Sarah from the Orphan Program, goes to visit the children and their grandmother one time a month (as it is very far on the bus) to check on them and make sure they are being well cared for. Sarah has built a good relationship with the grandmother who always tries to offer Sarah bananas from her garden, which Sarah takes willingly to encourage their positive relationship together.

So many lives are being changed, and none of it would be possible without you, our sponsors. We are eternally grateful to you. Thank you.

If you are interested in supporting one of the orphans in our Orphan Program for just $35 a month, please go to our website at www.ordinarywomen.org where you can choose your orphan from the profiles. Or you can write to us at:

Ordinary Women, Inc.
     26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146
                                                         Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,
Darla Morfin
Ordinary Women, Inc.
Executive Director-OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.l

March 17th TBN taping: HEALTH AND NUTRITION

2011-03-01T19:48:00.001-08:00

Hi Friends of OWI ~

We thank all of you who have supported Ordinary Women, Inc. by joining us in the audience for the Trinity Broadcasting Network live tapings. This is a wonderful way to help raise funds for the increasing cost of food for the children in the OWI Orphan Program in Kenya.

We ask that you join us again for the TBN taping on Thursday, March 17, 2011.

It's Doctor's Night! Don't miss this opportunity to hear an interesting discussion on the topic of:

Health and Nutrition - taking care of the Temple of God.

The hosts: Matt and Laurie Crouch

The guests: Cherie Calborn (Juice Lady), Dr. Scott Hannen, Dr. Scott Morris, Dr. Eric Braverman, Dr. Edward Wagner and Dr. Edmund Chein.

Dr. Scott Hannen, and Dr. Scott Morris are medical doctors as well as ordained ministers.

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Here are some answers to questions you might have:

Yes, I want to come – what do I need to do?

Reply to this email to reserve seats for you and your family/friends. There are plenty of seats so feel free to forward this email to your small groups and friends. You will then receive directions to TBN and a reminder closer to the date.

How much will this cost me?

There is no cost to you, this is a freebie! TBN will pay OWI a $20 stipend for each person in our group that stays until the end for a group picture

What is the date of the taping?

March 17, 2011 this is a Thursday – we must be seated by 5:00.

Where am I supposed to go?

Trinity Broadcasting Studio, 3150 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92711 (ornate white building) a map and a reminder will be emailed to you.

The studio is on the second floor and the security guards can direct you where to go.

There is ample free parking through the white gates in front of the building.

What time should I arrive?

We will start gathering at 4:30 and must be seated by 5:00.

The seating is first-come, first-served.

What if I cannot arrive until after 5:00?

Its okay, come when you can. You will either be seated in the studio or in the overflow room. You will join the rest of the group afterwards for the group picture.

What time does the actual taping begin?

The actual taping will be from approximately 6:00 to 8:00

What if I can't make it home for dinner before the taping and I'm hungry?

TBN has a café where you can purchase dinner, however, no food will be allowed in the studio.

Can I cut out early?

Ordinary Women, Inc. will receive from TBN a $20 stipend for each person that stays until the end for a group picture, so we ask that you stay for the picture. We will be told at the end of the taping where to gather for our picture.

Can I invite my friends, family and small groups?

Absolutely! We encourage this. Let us know the names of your friends and family so we know approximately how many seats to reserve.

What If I do not have my name on the TBN list and decide to come at the last minute?

It is no problem. You may come to the taping even though you do not have your name on the list.

Who do I contact to add or remove names from the TBN list or to ask questions?

Feel free to call Judy McCoy at (949) 233-5340 or email info@ordinarywomen.org.

We hope to see you on March 17^th!

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC.

Judy McCoy

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OWI Kenya Update, January 2011

2011-01-28T21:34:00.001-08:00

Hello friends and family of OWI (Ordinary Women, Inc),

I hope this finds you well in the beginning of this new year.

Our Orphan Program in Kenya continues to thrive. OWI Kenya and the Social Workers organized a very successful Christmas party for the orphans. It was a big celebration! They sang songs, did presentations of poems and choruses. They played soccer and handball together. They ate lunch and had a cake. The orphans were presented with their new school uniforms for this year, too. Patrick, the Director of the Orphan Program said the orphans were so happy at their Christmas party. Without you, the sponsors of the Orphan Program, none of this would happen. The majority of the guardians cannot give the orphans anything for Christmas, so they are glad that OWI Kenya offers them a Christmas party, a place where the orphans know they belong, where they can celebrate Christmas together.

Allow me to introduce you to one of our orphans, Peter. Peter just graduated from the 8th grade in Kenya and has just received his grade on the exit exam from junior high to get into high school. I am told that anything above a score of 240 is high and will get the child into a good high school. Peter scored a 313! He has high hopes and big dreams, wanting to be a doctor someday!

Peter has not always been able to dream big though. Peter's father was a police officer in Kenya and died in 2005 of AIDS. This left Peter and his two older brothers to be cared for by their mother. Their mother struggled to pay for the basic needs of food and shelter for herself and the three boys, but the oldest brother had to drop out of school in the 8th grade to earn money for the family. All three boys were relied upon to go to the fields for day labor to make a few shillings to buy food for the family. Peter's mother passed away in 2007 from AIDS and anemia. This left the three boys alone. Shortly after this, the OWI Kenya Orphan Program began, and Peter and his older brother (who is now going to be a junior in high school) were taken into the Program. They were placed to live with their very elderly grandmother.

Because of the Orphan Program, both Peter and his brother Paul have both thrived in the Program. They have found a "new family" in the Program. Their grandmother passed away in May, 2010. This was a sad day for Peter and his brothers as well as all in the Orphan Program, as they have become a tight knit family together. This is a lot of loss for Peter. In spite of these losses, Peter thrives because of the support of this Program. Peter continues to live with his older brothers, as they are of adult age.

Peter continues to dream big as he begins his adventure into high school.

Thank you for your ongoing support for orphans like Peter, who even while looking at adversity, can rise above and have big goals, and realize his dreams.

If you are interesting in supporting one of the orphans in our Orphan Program for just $35 a month, please go to our website at www.ordinarywomen.org where you can choose your orphan from the profiles. Or you can write to us at:

Ordinary Women, Inc.
26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146
Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,
Darla Morfin
Ordinary Women, Inc.
Executive Director-OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

OWI Fundraisers

2011-01-04T20:28:00.001-08:00

Dear Friends and Supporters of OWI:

We are excited to see what blessings and challenges the New Year will bring as the Ordinary Women, Inc. Orphan Program begins its fourth year of operation. As you know, fundraising for the Orphan Program is an ongoing necessity and the contributions of our individual donors are the prime support that enables the Orphan Program in Kenya to operate. With this in mind, we hope you will join us for the following fundraising opportunities that have been made available to us:

Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN)

We have been invited by TBN to be part of the studio audience at upcoming TBN live studio taping sessions in Costa Mesa, CA. The studio tapings are on Thursday evenings February 17^th and March 17^th. Each person that sits in the audience as part of the Ordinary Women, Inc. group earns OWI $20 which is paid by TBN. There is no cost to you to attend the taping - just sit back, enjoy the experience and be blessed.

If you think you might be interested in attending the TBN tapings, have questions about the evening, or would like more information regarding the subjects of these tapings, please reply to this email.

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC.

Judy McCoy

(949) 233-5340

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

OWI Kenya Update, December 2010

2010-12-13T15:28:00.001-08:00

Hello Friends and Family of OWI (Ordinary Women, Inc.),

As we reflect upon this Christmas season and all we have to be thankful for, I can't help but thank God for the OWI Orphan Program (OP) in Kenya. Even though most of us live across the globe from this program, your sponsorships and prayers are making a difference in these precious orphans' lives.

I want to write this month about a fourteen year old girl named Risper. Risper started in the OP at the beginning of the program in January, 2008. She is HIV+. She contracted HIV/AIDS from her mother who died from it. Risper's mother contracted the disease from Risper's father who was a refugee from the Congo. He returned to the Congo, and they don't know if he is alive today.

Through our program, family members agreed to take Risper into their home. Risper had not been getting medication at all for HIV/AIDS before the OP. After being placed in the OP, she started going into Kitale (about a twenty five minute bus ride from Kiminini) to a treatment center to receive free medication from the government. However, because of the stigma in Kenya of HIV and the lack of education on how the illness is contracted, the guardian family was treating Risper like an outcast. She wasn't allowed to play or be around the other children in the home for fear that she would give them the illness. And Risper continually got sick because the family didn't give her the medications as prescribed. So, after attempted trainings with the guardians and no change for Risper in the home, the social workers of the OP found a boarding school that Risper could attend where a nurse would monitor Risper's medication and health. Because of the OP, she was able to be placed in such a school and a positive living environment.

During the school breaks, Risper returned to her guardian home, and Patrick, the Director of the OP, visited her and her guardians to work on building their relationship. Through their hard work and diligence, and through the ongoing HIV/AIDS education provided by the OP, the guardians' attitude toward Risper has completely changed. They no longer stigmatize her. They accept her, they accept her illness, they allow her to play with the other children in the home. They are taking her in as one of their own. This is truly a miracle. And we have been fortunate enough to watch it unfold.

Risper is no longer at the boarding school. She doesn't need to be. She stays at her guardians' home and goes to school at the local day school. She goes monthly to Kitale to the treatment center for her HIV medications, and she takes them as prescribed. She recently had a rash from taking her medications, so the guardians took her to the hospital to get the proper treatment. She received it, took her medication for the rash, and is healing from it.

This is another way that the OWI Kenya Orphan Program is leading the way for cultural change in Africa.

If you would like to give an extra gift during this holiday season that will help us pay the orphan food bill or for boarding school tuition costs for the orphans, please send your tax-deductible donation to the address listed below or go to our website and make a donation using paypal.

If you are interested in supporting one of the orphans in our Orphan Program for just $35 a month, please go to our website at www.ordinarywomen.org and you can choose your orphan from the profiles. Or you can write to us at:

Ordinary Women, Inc

26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146

Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,

Darla Morfin

Ordinary Women, Inc.

Executive Director- OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

OWI Kenya Update, November 2010

2010-11-11T06:41:00.001-08:00

Hello family and friends of OWI (Ordinary Women Inc.),

Thanksgiving, what a wonderful season. As a culture, this is a time that we stop and reflect about what we are thankful for. And we have so much to be thankful for.

I want to share a story of one of our orphans and the gratefulness she and her mother have for our program. Her name is Rael. Rael is number four out of seven siblings. Rael has Marfan's Syndrome, which is a connective tissue disorder. The connective tissue is weakened, which affects the tendons, the cartilage, and the major arteries in the body. A person with Marfan's Syndrome is usually tall, has long legs and arms, long fingers, and poor vision. Rael's father was a police officer and died of heart disease in 2004 because of complications from his Marfan's Syndrome. Marfan's Syndrome is passed down generationally.

The passing of Rael's father left Rael's mother in a very difficult situation. She was struggling to provide for the basic needs of her children with her job of going to the marketplace and buying and selling vegetables. She had to make some very difficult decisions like not sending her children to school and finding other places for her children to stay. Two of Rael's older siblings had to drop out of school. And with Rael's condition of Marfan's syndrome, Rael had difficulty with her eyesight. Rael needed eye surgery, but her mother was unaware of this as she was struggling to provide the basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter for her children. Ignorant of the symptoms of Marfan's syndrome, Rael's mother thought Rael was rude, lazy, and slow, and she blamed Rael for being a difficult child. Rael had dropped out of school and was staying with her grandmother. Rael's future looked very bleak until she was placed in the Kenya OWI OP (Orphan Program).

Since Rael was placed in the OP two years ago, she and her siblings have returned to the safety and security of their mother's home. Rael's mother is provided with food every month for Rael which is part of the support offered by Rael's sponsor, so Rael and her mother don't have to worry about how Rael is going to eat every day. Through extra financial gifts, Rael has gotten the eye surgery needed so now she can read her textbooks. Also, Rael's social worker in the OP has educated her mother on Marfan's syndrome, so she understands Rael's symptoms and behaviors better now. Because of Rael's low self-esteem from Marfan's syndrome, her social worker has provided encouragement by reminding her that Abraham Lincoln and Mary, Queen of Scots (1542) both had Marfan's syndrome and yet did powerful things in their lives.

Rael has returned to school. She is now seventeen years old and is in the eighth grade. She is studying for her exams which she needs to pass to go on to high school. It looks hopeful that she will enter high school next year. Her goal in life is to become an Optometrist because she wants to help people with their eyes as she has been helped.

Each month at the guardian day in the OP, Rael's mother is one of the first guardians there to show her gratitude to this program. She is so thankful and grateful she has her children living with her again, that she can provide for their basic needs, and that Rael has gotten the eye surgery she needed.

I thank God for you, our sponsors, encouragers, supporters. Without you, the OWI Orphan Program in Kenya would be non-existent. You are making a life changing difference in these childrens' lives. Thank you! To you, we are very grateful! If you would like to give an extra gift during this holiday season that will help us pay the orphan food bill or for school uniforms for the orphans, please send your tax-deductible donation to the address listed below or go to our website and make a donation using paypal.

Ordinary Women, Inc

26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146

Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,

Darla Morfin

Ordinary Women, Inc.

Executive Director- OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

BOOK & BAKE SALE UPDATE

2010-10-25T13:58:00.001-07:00

On behalf of Ordinary Women, Inc., I would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone who participated in the BOOK & BAKE SALE on Saturday!

We had a tremendous response to our book donation request which provided a wide variety of books to choose from. The buyers were impressed with the volume and variety. Thank you for your help – we could not have done it without you!

The baked goods were a hit! We have some very talented people in our group who were busy baking a beautiful array of breads, muffins, cakes, cookies and brownies! Thank you all!

We made some new friends and have added you to our database so we can keep you apprised of our fundraising efforts and the progress of the Kenyan Orphan Project.

We will be having another BOOK SALE next year in the April – May time frame so you can start setting aside your books and we will be happy to take them off your hands. Of course, we will keep in touch and give you more information closer to the time of this event.

Thank you, again, from the bottom of our hearts!

God Bless,

ORDINARY WOMEN, INC.

Judy McCoy

For more information regarding Ordinary Women, Inc. and our projects, see our web site at www.ordinarywomen.org

If you wish to be removed from our database, please reply to this email with UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject line.

BOOK & BAKE SALE THIS SATURDAY!

2010-10-20T15:30:00.001-07:00

What a lot of rain we have had! If this weather makes you want to curl up with a good book then come to the BOOK & BAKE SALE on Saturday and stock up!

The books are priced to sell and the proceeds help support orphans in Kenya so you will be helping others as well.

WHERE: 28651 Rancho Maralena

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

WHEN: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM this Saturday

October 23, 2010

Sponsored by Ordinary Women, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit

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OWI BOOK & BAKE SALE - October 23, 2010

2010-10-08T16:45:00.001-07:00

Hi Friends of OWI:

Here is a great opportunity to help support the OWI Orphan Program by donating books to our BOOK & BAKE SALE. Clean out your bookshelves and put those unwanted books to work!

I am collecting books now, so feel free to drop your books off at my house or contact me if you need them picked up. Come and join us if you can and bring your friends and family.

Thank you so much for your support!

Judy McCoy

Ordinary Women, Inc.

BOOK & BAKE SALE

Proceeds support orphans in Kenya

Come and buy a book, eat a cookie and help support the ORDINARY WOMEN, INC. Orphan Program! Website is www.ordinarywomen.org.

WHAT: BOOK AND BAKE SALE

WHEN: OCTOBER 23, 2010

7:00 AM

WHERE: 28651 Rancho Maralena

Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Email Judy McCoy at judykmccoy@cox.net for more information.

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

OWI Kenya Update, September 2010

2010-09-25T10:40:00.001-07:00

Hi Friends and Family of Ordinary Women, Inc, (OWI)

OWI had another successful trip to Kenya in August, 2010. The four person team was led by our board member, Debbie Valverde, small but mighty. It never ceases to amaze me what can be done in a little over a week on these trips. The trips are usually two weeks in length, but by the time the team gets to Kiminini, Kenya (a 25-27 hour plane flight and then a 10 hour drive by van), there is just a little over a week left to be in Kiminini. Once again, the team accomplished so much!

Debbie, along with nurse Mumbi (who is Kenyan and now lives in California) put a team of doctors and nurses together in Kenya for a medical clinic. They did a one day medical clinic for our orphans, guardians, and their families. This is the first year that none of our orphans had to go to the hospital! With the ongoing support you are providing as sponsors, our orphans are more healthy this year. Only one of our orphans is having problems with her eyes. The doctor thinks it might be allergies as they itch a lot. She will be taken to the hospital for a follow up appointment. A big health problem in Kenya is intestinal worms. Our orphans are receiving de-worming medications every quarter and the medicine for malaria is administered when needed. All of these preventative measures keep our orphans free of these problems. Because of the ongoing support you are providing as sponsors, our orphans are healthier than ever!

Debbie's team also had an Orphan Day, where all the orphans, guardians, and their families came together for a day of fun, crafts, and to celebrate their birthdays. Many of our orphans don't know when their birthdays are, so they had one big birthday party for them all. I spoke to Patrick today, the Director of the Orphan Program in Kenya, and he said, "It was the best birthday party ever"! The orphans put together some presentations for the celebration, and they performed them for the group. Happy birthday was sung, the candles were blown out, and then they cut the cake, sang, and danced in celebration. And they can really dance! It sounds like it was a wonderful time together! Thank you to all the sponsors who donated a little extra for this special day! Our orphans and their families had a great time. Patrick also said the guardians enjoyed the day as much as the orphans did.

As well as the medical clinic and the Orphan Day for our orphans, Debbie's team held a Women's Conference for the day. This was an opportunity for the women in the community to come together and be encouraged by each other. The women get so much out of these women's conferences. So much so, they are asking for more than one day for the women's conference next year.

As I talk with the OWI board in Kenya and with Patrick, the Director of the Orphan Program in Kenya, I am continually reminded of the impact this program is making and the lives that are being changed for the better. And I know it is all because of you, our sponsors and friends who support the work in Kenya. Thank you.

Ordinary Women, Inc

26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146

Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

Joining Hands for Global Change,

Darla Morfin

Ordinary Women, Inc.

Executive Director- OWI Orphan Program

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

Planning for OP/Med day

2010-08-31T21:36:00.001-07:00

Today we are going shopping for the OP day, we have planned for the day and what is the greatest need for the orphans so that we can purchase it at the local store in Kitale. We have planned a visit to Leslie's orphan but the roads there are dirt and can be very slippery if it rains and yesterday and today have been cloudy, cold with some rain. Today may be the same and so that will dictate wheither we go or not. The trip back to our guest house yesterday was nail biting as we had to access which side of the road to use and pray that we didn't slip into the ditch on the side. Of course we made it and we will be setting out again soon. My bag was lost at the airport but I am to receive it today. I really didn't need all that I thouht I needed as I have made due with sharing with Leslie. I might have had a bit more difficulty if she hadn't been with me.....but it has not been a terrible thing. Please pray for better weather and that all preparations are finished before dark. Debbie

--

Debbie
"We are moved by our love for Him!"
_______________
949 280-7987
Ordinary Women, Inc.
Joining Hands for Global Change
26861 Trabuco Rd. Suite E-146
Mission Viejo, Ca 92691-3535
www.ordinarywomen.org

First moments in Kenya

2010-08-29T22:35:00.000-07:00

The flight here and experience at the Nairobi airport was familar to me and so I didn't feel strange or out of place. I'm glad to be back, to see the friends OWI and I have made over the years and to continue to work alongside them in whatever God calls this team to do. Yes we have an agenda but I am hoping that I hold it loosely so that it is His plans not mine that are fulfilled. We arrived at Mayfield later than we hoped to as one of my bags did not show up. I reported it to baggage claim and then left to greet our very good friend Gideon who was and has been there at every trip OWI has made in the last 7 years. He has gone over and above the call of hired driver to become a trusted friend and brother to us all. It was great to see him waiting there for us. After the introductions to our new traveler, Leslie and news of family shared, we jumped into our van and he quickly got us to. The Mayfied Guest House where we will stay for one night. As I tip toed around hoping to not wake the other guests, I thanked God for a safe trip, for sleep thru the night and a suitcase in the morning BEFORE we leave for Kitale in the morning.
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First moments in Kenya

2010-08-29T20:25:00.000-07:00

OWI Kenya update, August 2010

2010-08-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

Hello OWI friends,

The Ordinary Women, Inc. (OWI) Orphan Program which began in January, 2008 continues to run smoothly thanks to your faithful support.

The guardians who are a part of our Orphan Program (OP) have become a family in the last two years. Before the OP started two and a half years ago, most of these guardians didn't even know each other. Many of our guardians are widows. In Kenya, when the husband dies, the husband's family is expected to take over caring for the widow and her children. Most of the time, however, the husband's family blatantly takes any land, house, or personal posessions the widow has and leaves her with nothing but the children. Some widows brought their own children into the program. These orphans are considered half orphans in Kenya which means that the parent is completely destitute and has no way of supporting her children. Some widows have taken in other orphans in our program that are not their own.

Without this program, our orphans would be living on the streets. Someone asked me just the other day, "then the government would step in and take over the care of the children?" My response was, "No, there is no government assistance for these children. They would be turned out to live on the streets, no matter how young they are". We cannot imagine this in the United States, but it happens in Kenya, as well as in other countries all over the world.

So, these guardians have come together and have become an OWI family. They come together each month and are led by the social workers of the OP. They receive the monthly food allowance for the orphans. Then, they are given training on a certain area that helps them be better guardians to our orphans.

About one year ago, I started hearing of a savings program that the guardians were starting for themselves. This came out of the need when one of our orphans passed away last year. The guardian didn't have any money to bury our 8th grade orphan, Lorna. OWI raised the money to give Lorna a proper burial. The guardian wanted Lorna to be buried in her yard (which is still legal in this small village), so that's where the funeral and burial took place.

From this tragedy, the guardians got together and started a savings account. Each month, they each contribute 50 ksh (about 0.65 US) to the account. Then, if there is an emergency or if they have a project they want to do, they can borrow money from the account. They pay it back in payments each month with 10% interest. They now have 30,000 ksh (about $410 US) in their account. Some have borrowed money to buy small items for their homes, while some others have started small businesses like buying and selling of cereal, and vegetable growing and then selling of their crops. This all benefits the guardians and orphans in our program.

So, not only is your support and sponsorship providing the basic needs of food, clothing, education, and medical needs to the orphans, it's also empowering our guardians by being a part of a bigger family, and getting benefits from working together.

Thank you so much for your ongoing support to our program. Without you, this program would be non-existent.

Ordinary Women, Inc

26861 Trabuco Road, Suite E#146

Mission Viejo, Ca. 92691

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails from OWI, please put "Unsubscribe" in the subject line and reply to this email. Thank you.

Joining Hands for Global Change,

Darla Morfin

Ordinary Women, Inc.

Executive Director- OWI Orphan Program

Here's a terrific way to support Ordinary Women, Inc. and get a spiritual lift

2010-07-19T06:34:00.001-07:00

Support OWI and hear KIRK CAMERON speak in person!

Kirk Cameron will be the speaker at a live TBN (Trinity Broadcasting Network) taping on Thursday, September 30, 2010 and Ordinary Women, Inc. has secured 50 seats in the audience for which we will receive an honorarium for each seat filled. The address is 3150 Bear Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92711.

If you are going to be in the area come and be inspired by this powerful speaker! We will gather at TBN at 4:30 PM to be seated by 5:00 sharp. Taping will be from 6:00 to 8:00. There is a bistro at TBN that sells soups, salads, sandwiches, beverages and desserts if you would like to have a bite to eat before being seated.

We can only take the first 50 people so reserve your seat now by emailing Judy McCoy at judykmccoy@cox.net or call (949) 233-5340.

More about Kirk Cameron:

Do you remember the child actor Kirk Cameron? He played Mike Seaver on the TV sitcom Growing Pains and Cameron "Buck" Williams in the Left Behind film series, as well as dozens of other television shows and films.

Kirk continues to be actively involved in quality family entertainment and travels throughout the country, making the most of every opportunity to further the Gospel. He speaks in schools, churches and at community events. He is also a producer and host of The Way of the Master television series and radio program.

What do others have to say about Kirk Cameron?

"I have never heard the gospel presented more powerfully, more correctly, or more clearly than when Kirk Cameron shared his message with us at Shadow Mountain Community Church."                                                Dr. David Jeremiah - Senior Pastor, Shadow Mountain Community Church

"Kirk Cameron gave one of the most sincere, simple, powerful statements of the Gospel I have ever heard."
                                    John Piper - Desiring God Ministries

"[Kirk's teaching] puts a perspective on evangelism that will turn any congregation 180 degrees towards the lost...I highly recommend Kirk Cameron to those pastors who have a heart and desire to see their congregation catch the fire of evangelism through yet another vehicle to reach the world for which Christ died."
                                    Bob Coy, Senior Pastor - Calvary Chapel Ft. Lauderdale

"Kirk Cameron is a powerful communicator."
                                    Dr. Jack Graham - President of the Southern Baptist Convention and                                                                    Senior Pastor of Prestonwood Baptist Church, Dallas, TX

Welcome to Shtyle.fm

2010-06-17T21:34:00.000-07:00

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2010-06-17T19:05:00.000-07:00

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Back home

2009-09-10T18:11:00.001-07:00

We are now back home from another awesome trip. God blessed the trip so much. We have a lot to reflect on and be thankful for. All of our orphans are safe and healthy. The guardians had a lot of thanks they give to their sponsors. They all said their orphans are more healthy this year since the program started. So I also join the guardians and say thank you to all of our sponsors. It's because of your continual sacrificial giving that we have an orphan program and that our orphans are doing so well. If you want to join us for a future trip and to meet the orphan you sponsor, le us know. That would be great.
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More from Kenya

2009-09-08T01:23:00.000-07:00

We had a very successful day on Sunday at church in the morning with our kenyan friends and then we had our fairwell lunch with Owi Kenya. We had such a good week with them. It was hard to leave. On Monday we drove to Masai Mara for safari. Gideon knew a shortcut which cut off an hour or two on the drive, but it was the bumpiest ride I've been on. We definitely saw the back roads of Kenya. We went out on safari yesterday and we just saw hippos today. Rene is really happy. Tomorrow we head for Nairobi and then home in the evening. God has really blessed our trip.
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Mo

2009-09-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy couple of days. I met with the social workers yesterday and today,and saw the plot of land we want to buy. Today, we met with the orphans and guardians. Some shared how the orphan program has changed their lives. This afternoon, they had a wedding celebration for Rene and me. We rode in an oxen cart to the church. The church was packed for the celebration.. It was really nice.
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More from kenya

2009-09-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

We have had a good two days. Yesterday we went to a member's house from the church, had lunch and then had a bible study meeting together. Today I met with the social workers and Del and Rene went to the field to see the farms. They got to meet the chief of the village, too. It was a good day.
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2009-09-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we arrived safely to kiminini after a nine hour drive. I thank God for our driver Gideon who had to drive over many potholes and maneuver through dangerous traffic. Today we had a busy day. We attended the funeral service and burial for our orphan Lorna. It was a beautiful ceremony and she was a precious girl of 13 years. After that, we went to the home of Del's orphan. It was really nice for them to meet each other. And Charles loves the match cars Del got him. That's all for now. I'll write again soon.
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Arrived @ Nairobi

2009-08-30T13:22:00.001-07:00

We arrived safely with all our luggage. The plane was mostly empty from london so we got to stretch out and sleep. Gideon was at the airport to pick us up and now we are at the Grace House for the night. Tomorrow morning we leave for the day's drive to Kitale. Rene and Del are getting along really well wih Gideon. More later. Gideon says hello! Darla
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We're in London

2009-08-30T01:12:00.001-07:00

We've met up with my Brother Del in London and we're waiting to depart to Nairobi. We all had good flights to London. More when we get to Nairobi. Darla

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Home and fully recovered???

2009-08-27T23:31:00.001-07:00

Hi Friends,

Thanks so much for following our 1st blog of one of our trips. I hope you enjoyed the experience as much as I did. It was really nice to be able to share the moments and feelings as we were going through them.

I thought that I would send one last blog. Our time in Kenya was more than I could have hoped for. I totally enjoyed traveling with each and every one that went this year. I have actually missed the daily piling into the vans with everyone for the day's schedule. But I also missed my husband and family here in the states and I'm glad to be home and able to catch up with them. It looks like my grandkids have grown at least an inch!

Every time I go to Kenya I am so excited to be returning and visiting with the friends I have made that really have become family to me. We have such a short time to spend together and we always try to squeeze the most out of each moment. Even having just come off that long flight and dealing with the jet lag, I'm already thinking about the next time I will go back.Kenya is truly in my heart and I don't want to lose touch with those I have met there.

I have some sad news to share with you though, and I am having a hard time dealing with it myself. On the day that we were to leave Kiminini, our friend and OWI president, Alice received a call that her 13 yr old niece Emma had gone into a coma and was rushed to the hospital. She did not come out of it, but passed away a day later. The reason was an enlarged heart due to Rheumatic Fever. This was a terrible tragedy that rocked our team. We were so up with all the wonderful things that had happened throughout the last week. It just was such a shock. I wished I could have been there for Alice and her family while they had to prepare for the funeral. On top of the grief they had, the expenses were high so as a team we donated to the cost, and prayed for Emma's family. It seemed so little for such a huge loss.

Now I wish that was all but its not, just 3 days after our return we received a text informing us that one of our own orphans, Lorna Nekesa sponsored by OWI, had died that day of the very same thing as Emma. She was 14 yrs old and was going into the 8th grade. On the Orphan Day she and the other orphans had performed songs, poems and recited verses of the Bible to us. Lorna actually recited almost one whole chapter of the book of Luke. I remember thinking what a memory and a dedication to the Word of God. We celebrated those orphans that were moving on to secondary school with congratulation cards and she was one of the 5 to receive one. It was a wonderful day and Lorna was a big part of it. I don't know all the information but the Social Worker who works with our orphans, Patrick, sent an email on some of the specifics. On the day of the medical clinic for the orphans, the doctors discovered a problem with Lorna's heart and sent her to the district hosp where she stayed for one week. They discharged her right after we left claiming she was well. But she was not, Lorna died just 5 days after that. I can't hardly believe it, I feel almost disbelief over her death. OWI has had this program for over 18 months and frankly I didn't even consider that this might happen. People die all the time but I wonder if these 2 girls developed this specific problem because they couldn't afford to see a doctor in the beginning stages of whatever caused their enlarged heart. What keeps going through my mind is, what can I do to help stop it. I'm not doctor or nurse and I don't even understand what happend to Emma and Lorna but my eyes are opened to this and II want to try and do whatever I can do to help parents raise healthy and happy children. Seems like a huge endevor but I know that with God's help, we can do anything! Please be praying for these 2 families. Although I don't have a picture of Emma, I do have a couple of Lorna that I would like to share with you. One from when she started in the orphan program and the other from the Orphan Day celebration just last week. My peace is that she is in the arms of the Father and there is no more pain for her.
Thanks for going on this journey with me
Hugs,
Debbie

Our one hope is that God is in control and He cares for each and every one of us. I can't comprehend this completely but I know He is a good and loving and fair Father.

Leaving Masai Mara

2009-08-19T02:03:00.000-07:00

Hey it,s so nice to be back on line again. Arriving at the Masai Mara left me without a signal except for a few short times and mainly while we were out on the Mara looking for animals. Everyone is well and has enjoyed their well deserved rest . But we were all glad to have been used by God throughout the week to help the people of Kiminini. While at the Mara we took a couple of game drives. The first drive was pretty exciting as we were able to spot 4 of the Big 5. Lions, Elephants, Leopard (for me the first ever), and Water Buffalo. Along with several other animals such as Zebra, Giraffes, Gazelles, Ostriches, Hyenas, Wildebeests, and the list could go on. Early the next morning we started off on a marathon safari. First to see was a Rhino mom and her kid. They were hiding in the brush but with all the vans swarming to see the rare site as there are so few,, she came out and allowed us to snap a shot and then went back under cover. Very nice of her don,t you think? For the next several hours we saw so many animals including more Lions both male and female. One group had just finished feeding on the kill the Lionesses had made and the were resting under the tree. The male did sit up for a snap. Last stop was the Talek River to see the Hippos. Dispite the low waters due the the drought conditions we saw several and their young. I have been to the Mara several times now but I never get tired of seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural enviroment. I also enjoy seeing those who have never experiened anything like it for the first time. And this being the first time for both Abraham and Chris who have lived in Kenya their whole lives, made it even more enjoyable. We are on our way to Nairobi right now. From the Mara is around 4 hrs and we are about half way. One of our vans got what they call a punture (flat) and had to stop and change the tire. Fortunately nothing more serious. I can't believe that our vans don' t have more problems since they take such a beating on these roads, if you can call them that but really in all the times I've been we have had only had trouble twice. We will be staying over night in Nairobi at the Grace House again (where we first stayed when we arrived in Kenya) and tomorrow we will go to visit Pastor Victor in Kibera, the largest slum in Africa. It is located in Nairobi and from its size, from what I hear, has practically become its own city. One of our girls, Becky spent several weeks there 4 years ago on a mission trip and she is going back to vist friends she hasn,t seen in that long. One of our loyal supporters, Lynda was able to get a couple of used laptops donated to OWI to give to whoever we thought could benefit from them and we will present one to Pastor Victor. The other one is going to OWI Kenya to help the operation of our OP program. What a blessing they will be for them! Thanks Lynda for thinking of our friends in Kenya. Well I think I'll take a little nap and maybe when I wake up we will be there. Talk to you all soon. Debbie
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Woman's Conference con't

2009-08-16T12:32:00.001-07:00

and her group. Our guest speaker was a native Kenyan who is studying in California was going to be in Kenya and so she flew into Kitale for 2 days. The Church was packed and there was testimonies from both groups. Since we started late we did not stop for lunch that was being prepared by the men of the Church. At 4 we finished and sat down to eat. Since we had missed lunch we were hungry and ate a full plate dispite that we had been invited to our friend Nancy's, the nurse at the district hosp, home for dinner at 7pm. We rushed home and prepared for dinner. Nancy and her husband live in Kitale with their family and they had rented the equivielant of an outdoor wedding setup. They had a large open sided tent in the compound front lawn and a buffet table filled with food. There were chairs all around and music playing various songs that you might hear at a wedding. She and the Dr. Went all out in throwing a dinner for our whole team. Last day with our friends at church tomorrow
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Woman,s Conference

2009-08-16T02:17:00.000-07:00

Well this is day 8 and we have gotten really comfortable in the house and also in Kiminini. Our boys that Marjaana and I sponsor, Abraham and Chris have stayed with us every day so we have had. Lots of time with them. Tomorrow we leave for the Masai Mara. So as for the Woman's Conference, it was supposed to start at 10 am right after the social workers had one more meeting eith our group. That was not to be and we did not get going until 11:30. Alice, OWI Kenya president had a beautiful traditional dress of blue on and in fact most of the team had dresses given to us from the tailor made just in the last couple of days and we to were able to wear the tradional dress to the conference. The great praise and worship sung by Pastor Ann and her
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The medical clinic results

2009-08-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

When we arrived back at the clinic there were so many more waiting to be treated. The team had gotten organizied and the process of seeing each person had begun. Dr Kasenbeli told us about the District Health Officer of Kitale and that he wanted to come and meet us. This was the very first time that this particular clinic was opened and so in Kenyan style we had a ribbon cutting ceremony. The people waiting to be seen crowded around the clinic and Pastor made the announcement of the opening thru the support of Kitale district, Dr Kasenbeli, OWI US and OWI Kenya. The Distrct Health Officer spoke and then Marjaana said a few words then was given the honor of cutting the ribbon. Back to work immediately. First stop was the blood pressure/pulse table. nurse Linda and Joy were taking those while Jen V took down the numbers. I came to help later to give the nurses a break. Jen became honorary nurse taking the vitals and I wrote the numbers. Marjaana was our over all coordinatior of the med clinic making sure that all details were being handled and connecting people to the right resources. Nurse Mumbi was in charge of the medical side of coordination making sure that we had all the meds we needed. . Running here and there and even going into town on a motorcycle when the vans were not available to pick up more. The 7 clinians who came to help were seeing the paients and then sending them to lab and HIV testing. Those showing positive of which I heard were last count 10 and mabye more before the end of the day were counseled by our social workers Becky V, Evelyn O and Jenn T along with the help of our friend Alex who flew in from Sierra Leone. The pharmacy was manned by OWI Kenya Irene and Jenn R, Jan M and Tom helped with packaging pills and crowd control. Also our friend Silvia joined us for the morning to help there. And Belinda ran errands into town and picked up supplies from the district hosp in Kitale. By the end of a very long and hot day the clinic had treated over 1500 people. . Had there been more time more medicine and more energy we could have seen more. They just kept coming. So many people with sickness and no way to pay for the treatment they needed. My heart broke for every child and adult who came and literally waited for hours and hours in the hot sun to be helped. The team was drained physically and emotionally but excited that so many were helped. Tomorrow we have the Womans Conference at Deliverance Church and Pastor Rosemary from Kenya will speak along with several of the team and OWI Kenya sharing.......talk to you soon
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Medical clinic for the public today

2009-08-14T01:01:00.001-07:00

So today we have gotten an early start to the clinic and when we arrived there were at least 100 people waiting. We had not begun by 10 but there was a need to wait for the meds and the OWI Kenya team to arrive. Marj and I had to go into Kitale town which is 20 min drive to exchange money since we can only withdraw small amts at a time. We are on our way back and had to collect 3 other nurses for the clinic. We look to have lots of help. Please pray that it goes well and many are treated. Deb
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Medical Clinic for OP

2009-08-13T14:13:00.000-07:00

Today was a very full and emotional day for a lot of us. My day started out pleasant enough. I planned to meet Alice at the road and walk to the Church, Tom decided to join us and we had a nice walk thru the town of Kiminini. After reaching the Church just minutes after the vans did we were ushered in for tea and breakfast. The set up of the clinic was done quickly and the orphans and their guardians with other family were already waiting. All were weighed, measured, had their blood pressure taken along with temps before they went to see a doctor. Then if needed they received injections or had lab work done before making the stop to the pharmacy. Dr Kasenbeli brought several clinians and nurses to help and this made the process of seeing and treating over 300 people move as smoothly as possible. I have been a part of OWI med clinics to both the OP and to the surrounding public for the last 5 yrs and have been able to handle all the sickness and frustration I have witnessed at them. Knowing that what we do helps a bit , even giving them some hope by showing them that others care about their situation, but today was different for me. I saw one of the orphans sitting in the corner all by himself, he had been there for quite a while. I went and sat by him in silence as we could not communicate with each other. I tried to locate his guardian but found out that she had a funeral to attend and had dropped the boy off with a young girl of about 10 and that girl was in charge of a toddler. I decided to take the boy thru the stations of the clinic. So after having his weight and measurments taken we then then moved on to the doctor. I sat there saying nothing as the doctor asked this 7 year old child what his symptoms were. The Dr prescribed meds for malaria and an eye infection and then sent us to the pharmacy. They filled his prescriptions and told him how the take his medicine. I stood there wondering if he understood and if he would follow the instructions given him. How can this be? A child his age taking on the responsibility of his health? I had the instructions repeated to the girl and she promised to tell the guardian. With nothing more I could do, I watched these 3 small children begin their walk back home alone. The injustice and pain of of it hit me so hard that I could not go back inside the Church for a good hour, I couldn't bear to see the same situation played out again. I don't understand why this is but I do know and believe that God loves that child and all who are suffering and He is walking through it with them as they deal with their trails in this life. Seeing that young boy with his sad little eyes jiust sitting there all alone makes me hope for the promise of our new home where there will be no more tears or sorrow to come quickly...... Tomorrow we will do this again for the public.
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OP day

2009-08-12T11:14:00.001-07:00

So today was an early day. We had to a3rive at the Church at 8 to be there to help serve breakfat for the orphans and their guardians. Everyone including Mumbi and T were up and ready. After breakfast which ended an hour late the program got started and the kids were everywhere. I sought several of the kids and was able to actually meet to the faces that Trish and I have seen thru the profiles we work with every week. After lunch the Guardians and orphans put on a program in which they sang songs, danced and recited poems. It's amazing to hear the kids reciting large sections of the Bible and singing songs about God and the gratefulness that they have for how he has provide for them. The guardians put on a drama about how a child that lost both parents and needed to be sponsored was taken in by the OWI program. This is how some Kenyans share stories with others especially since many speak different dialects of Swahili. At the end we brought in 12 cakes, lit the candles and sang happy birthday to all the kids and to one adult. Marjaana celebrated her birthday with all 96 orphans. She said it was a great way to celebrate! Dinner was at the Pinewood Hotel and we had several guests join us. Dr Kasenbeli and Nancy who we met first at the Swiss conference were there, they work at the district hosp in Kitale. Also Abraham and Chris and our drivers Gideon and Steve. Tomorrow is another big day as we will have the first med clinic at the Church speciifcalllyfor the orphans and the guardians and their families. Alice lives close to where we ate staying and she is coing to meet me at the house at 7am and we will walk to the Church, about a 30 min walk. We are on our way home as I write this, good night
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Day 2 Orphan Day

2009-08-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

Good morning today is the day we will throw a birthday party for our orphans. Yesterday we met OWI Kenya girls , the Pastor and some of the orphans. Since school is out they were at the Church waiting to see us. Our social workers greeted their counterparts and had a great time getting to know each other. Meanwhile the rest of us walked the Church grounds and made plans for how to arrange the various crafts that Tom, Jen and Belinda brought for the kids to do. We were to have lunch at the Church at 1 but as always it was running late and so we decided to caravan over to the marketplace to buy some goodies for our afternoon visit to Tumaini. As soon as we left the Church it started to rain and so we had to run from the vans to the building where the boys at Tumaini were waiting for us. More later......
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Kiminini

2009-08-11T01:35:00.001-07:00

It was dark when we arrived in Kimini so we could not really see where we were going. But Gideon was ale to find his way......how does he do that? He has only been to the Mayer property once before and that was 2 yrs ago! Well we arrived at 8:30, tired of the bumby road and hungry. Ann who is Paul's caretaker of the guests that come to stay greeted us and had a delicious dinner of spagetti, salad and fruit ready for us. Salad you say? Paul being from the states and knowing that we would not normally in Kenya eat fresh greens has them washed in water that he puts thru a purifier. So we felt safe to enjoy. Something we won't do elsewhere while here. After dinner we relaxed in the livingroom for coffee or tea and talked about first impressions of Kenya especially for those that came for the first time. Some were excited to see the random monkey or zebra on the side of the road. And there was a comment made abot how at lunch in Nakuru while waiting for our food, at the next table the waitress brought the gentlemen there a pitcher of water to wash their hands. Different cultures and practices however small catching our attention telling us that we are in another country. We fnally searched out the room situation and got ready for bed. Marjaana Belinda and I were escorted to a guest house across the road for one night as there is a single guest leaving this morning and we will join the rest in the main house for the duration. Adequite place. We slept a bit but not as much as we needed due to jet lag. Right now Marj and Belinda are debating whether we have hot water let alone any water as the pressure is VERY low! for our shower. Well maybe I will just wait till we get back to the main house to shower......... Debbie
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First morning

2009-08-09T23:53:00.000-07:00

Habari za asubuhi (good morning). Day 1 - we were delayed at the airport waiting for Becky's flight to arrive from London so we sent the team to Gracia house ahead of us to get their rooms and try and sleep for today's drive to Kitale, of which is usually 8 hours. Gideon tells us that the roads have improved and the ride should not be so bad so we will leave at 10 am rather than the crack of dawn. They are experiencing a severe drought and the whole country is rationing electricity. Marj and I woke early before dawn and found that the lights went out while we were trying to get ready. It was pretty funny as I was brushing my teeth and it went totally black in the room. We fumbled around looking for my flash light only to find that the batteries were dead. Lesson - Always check your flash light before you pack it. Meeting team at 8 for breakfast. Love Debbie and the Team!

Nairobi and the airport

2009-08-09T23:50:00.000-07:00

Jambo! We have finally arrived at our destination and have been here for 2.5 hours getting through customs collecting luggage and waiting for our last team member Becky who is arriving via London. Our long time friend Gideon who will take care of us while we are in Kenya met us with lots of hugs at the gate. As always it is hurry up and wait. We are all excited to be here but tired. More tomorrow. Debbie

The Netherlands

2009-08-08T23:54:00.001-07:00

We have just arrived in the Netherlands and our flight was only 7 hrs so our next leg of the trip will be 9 hrs. Shortly after take off there was a medical emergency as a man took too much insulin and our two nurses, Joy and Linda were there in a heartbeat to aid the young man. He had a rough time for a bit was ok in the end once Linda put in an IV. We are now racing for our next flight as we have only an hour before the next flight leaves. Talk to you all soon deb
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Finished our 1st leg of the trip

2009-08-08T15:52:00.001-07:00

Well we are finally leaving the states on our way to Kenya. The team is now complete as we met up with Marjaana, Belinda and Linda here in Detroit. Our next flight is 9 hrs and we are getting ready to taxi out to take off now. I'll try and blog more once we land in Amsterdam although our layover is very short, 1 hour! Please pray for a sfe flight and on time arrival. Debbie
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Let's Start Blogging

2009-08-06T12:58:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone!!