Merry Christmassissippi

Troop 650
Alta Loma Christian Church
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Old Baldy Council

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, many federal, state and community organizations reacted to provide relief for those affected by this unprecedented natural disaster. Many of us sat, transfixed by the stories and images, wondering what we could do to help. Millions of people have generously donated millions of dollars to these efforts. The immediate financial needs of the victims will be addressed to a degree by these donations, but what about the emotional and spiritual needs. They need to pay their bills, but they desperately want to share their stories ... their sorrow ... their joys ... those tender moments of person-to-person caring. We do too!

While much of the media and public attention has been focused in the devastation in the New Orleans area, the wide spread destruction in [Biloxi, Mississippi] has gone unnoticed. Virtually destroyed in 1969 by Hurricane Camille, Biloxi had been rebuilt by a loving and resilient community. Now, they must begin that slow, painful process once again. While it may not be feasible for nationwide youth and community leaders to be there throughout this rebuilding process, we can help rekindle that fire of hope and love that knits this city together.

Good Turn 2005 will focus on the following goals:

  1. Raise National Awareness. We will develop presentation materials including flyers, videos, photos and template speeches to be used by Scout, church and community groups. These presentations will describe the history of Biloxi, the specific damage by Katrina and the needs to be fulfilled by Good Turn 2005. Mentors will teach youth the skills needed to prepare and deliver these presentations using applicable Merit Badge or other curricula.
  2. Financial Donations. Using these presenations, Scout, church and community groups will raise funds in their own communities. Volunteer youth will exercise public speaking, communications and accounting skills in collecting these donations. Donations should be sent to a common Good Turn account to support goal #3.
  3. Economic Stimulus. Not only were homes destroyed in the hurricane, but also businesses and the ability to earn a living. Where practical, the funds raised will be spent in Biloxi area businesses to support goal #4.
  4. Christmas Presents. We are working with Biloxi area organizations to identify families most affected by the hurricane. While insurance and federal monies may aid in the rebuilding process, many of these families will not have any extra to allow for the exchange of Christmas gifts. We will purchase gifts and gift cards for these families to be presented to these families in goal #5.
  5. Old Fashioned Christmas Party. After 3 months of cleanup and rebuilding, this community will greatly appreciate an evening of good food, singing and friendship. During the week before Christmas, we will personally host a community Christmas party where the presents will be distributed. Where practical, volunteer groups will be invited to converge on the Biloxi area to host this event. Seeing the faces of those that you have worked to help is a truly unforgettable experience.
  6. A Hands-on Laboratory for Future Good Turns. These Good Turns not only serve to solve an immediate need, but also provide a model for success in future events. Our own Good Turn 2004 exceeded our wildest expectations. Stoked by that success, we have dreamed to reach out nationwide. It is our sincere hope that your organization will experience such a thrill from reaching out to others, that you will be driven to reach out again and again.