A Legacy of Service

Lucille Johnston

Fifty years ago, my grandmother, Lucille Johnston, began a legacy of serving by teaching me that giving to others, especially at Christmas, was more important than any gift I could receive. It seems like yesterday that I helped make warm flannel pajamas and helped her pack them carefully to send to “special” children in another part of Florida.

This year your students have made friends with some of those special children who received those home-made gifts. Circle students have hosted numerous parties and have continued that legacy of serving at the Russell Home here in Orlando, Florida. In December, Circle families hosted a Christmas party with music, stories and cookie decorating. In November, I sat down with Matthew, now 45 years old, and I asked him what he wanted for Christmas. He said in his sweet voice, “Miss Karen, there are three things I would like. A picture of Jesus, a picture of God, and a picture of Heaven. I know I won’t live forever, so I want a peek of what I have to look forward to.” Wow, I love that sweet young man! He sees life from the right perspective. Matthew is just one of the friends you will fall in love with if you visit just once.

Also in December, Circle staff and families made up over 50% of the volunteers for two days at the Salvation Army Toy Distribution in downtown Orlando. A special thank you to Circle senior, Kendie Church, for making sure we didn’t forget this fun volunteer opportunity. Although corporations had cut back on their donations, individuals made up for it by donating over three times more than normal.

Over 100 Christmas Shoe Boxes were donated to two organizations for children less fortunate around the world. How fun to see families create a box to fill the needs of these children and at the same time teach their own children the importance of giving.

Lastly, Private First Class Brittany Grainger, serving our country in Seoul, South Korea, opened a box filled with Christmas gifts and cards from Circle families. When she received a box previously from us she said she loved reading the cards over and over. We plan on sending a “Party in a Box” in March, so watch the volunteer newsletter in February for details.

Thank you to all who served. I look forward to another great year.

Karen Stella, Volunteer Service Coordinator

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