December Update
This month went by especially quickly because we only had three full weeks together before Christmas break. However, we seemed to pack a lot in! Apparently we were having so much fun we didn't take as many photos.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Madison A's family owns a Christmas tree lot, so she brought back the cutest tree. It smells wonderful and has the perfect topper...a sombrero!
Service
The Fellows have had a blast serving with a variety of nonprofits this month. Above you can see them bringing Christmas cheer to the Penny Campaign with Samaritan Ministries.
We also had the opportunity to work with LEAD girls. This was our first time partnering with this incredible organization that works with low income/at risk pre-teen girls. They are doing remarkable work empowering, equipping and educating these young girls. We helped pack winter bags for the girls, then had the chance to write some encouraging notes that will be given out through the year.
It's a Fellow's tradition to end the semester by volunteering at Christmas for the City, and this year was no exception. We had a blast and served in various roles. We were thrilled to be with Santa and Mrs. Claus (also Madison A's mentor)!
Having Fun
The Fellows really enjoy exploring all Winston has to offer. They found a local skate rink to take them back to the nostalgia of their childhood.
Leader Lunch
Since we served at LEAD girls one afternoon, we only had two Leader Lunches this month. However, what we lacked in quantity, we made up for in quality! First, we met with the incredible Lynn Barclay Brewer. Lynn has been incredible leader and trail blazer her entire career. We are fortunate enough to have her on our Board as well.
Then, we had the honor of meeting with Dr. Tony Atala. Although Dr. Atala is a world renowned physician, he is incredibly humble. He helped us understand what the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine does and how their cutting-edge work is saving lives. And more importantly, he shared how his faith and study of science have overlapped. As if that wasn't enough, we then had the chance to go on a tour of the WFIRM with Anastasia.
Round Table
One thing is for sure, as a Fellow, you are well fed. We didn't get any pictures but were hosted by Tim and Deborah Gardner earlier this month. Then, the amazing Julie Gupton outdid herself once again with a wonderful meal and beautifully set table.
Christmas Party
Our last Round Table was actually our Christmas party hosted by several alumni: Bryn, Sarah and Louise! We played our traditional game of Dirty Santa, but with several twists. There was some fun competition and lots of laughs.
Celebrations
Another annual Fellow's tradition is our version of a Moravian Lovefeast. A sweet time together before wrapping up this semester.
Happy Birthday Ava! We celebrated Ava after a delicious lunch of the best tacos in town followed by homemade cheesecake.
Giving
We are very grateful for the many donors that make this program possible. In fact, almost 50% of our annual budget is raised by local support. This year, we've been given the lavish gift of a 25k match for the month of December. As you consider your end of year giving, we humbly ask that you help us meet our match and your gift will be doubled! Learn more here.
Merry Christmas!
If you're receiving this update, then you have some connection to the Winston-Salem Fellows program. We would like to say thank you for your support. We are constantly in awe of the incredible young men and women that come to our city through this program. Wherever you are this Christmas season and whatever is going on:
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in faith so that you overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" Romans 15:13.