Ministries
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Dawson Ministry Guide 2009-10

Every Member a Ministry

Click here for a pdf copy of the Dawson Ministry Guide for 2009-2010

Ministry Guide Contents

Click for pdf version of Ministry Guide
Music and Worship
Pastoral Care
Spiritual Formation
Greeters/Ushers
Other Ministries
Preschool Ministries
Children/Preteens
Quest
KidLife Week
Students Grades 7-12
College
Adult Ministries
Health and Wellness
Recreation
Community Ministries
Evangelism and Missions
Hispanic Ministries
M-POWER
International Mission Projects
United States Projects



W=WITHIN—the ministry takes place within the walls of Dawson.

B=BEYOND—the ministry takes place outside the walls of Dawson—in the community, or in another community, state, or country. The ministry may or may not be sponsored by Dawson.


Music and Worship


W Worship in the Chapel
Lead in worship in the Chapel Sundays at 8:30 a.m. or 9:40 a.m. by playing an instrument or singing.
Contact: Jeff Hindman at 871-7324 or jeff.hindman@dawsonchurch.org

W Accompanists
Accompany on piano or organ for choirs, ensembles, or worship services.
Contact: Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org

W Sanctuary Choir
Lead in worship each week by singing in the choir. Rehearse on Wednesday nights and sing in a worship service on Sundays at 9:40 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. Present three special musical programs during the year.
Contact: Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org

W Orchestra
Play an instrument in the orchestra for morning worship services (9:40 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.) twice a month, September through May.
Contact: Pat Morrow at 995-6975 or pmorrow@gmail.com

W Handbells—Adult
Ring with an advanced handbell choir. Previous experience is required and note reading skill is essential.
Contact: Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org

W Senior Adult Choir Members
Rehearse weekly and perform monthly in a nursing home, senior adult event, or worship service.
Contact: Dianne Norton at 871-7324 or dianne.norton@dawsonchurch.org

W Music Librarians
Assist with sorting, cataloging, and filing music for the music ministry.
Contact: Martha Spurling at 871-7324 or martha.spurling@dawsonchurch.org

W Drama
Serve as performer, script writer, lighting technician, set builder, costume seamstress, director, property master, or make-up artist for various dramatic techniques such as monologues, plays, short sketches, dance, mime, reader’s theater, recitation, speech choir dictation, and pageants.
Contact: Mike Miller at 871-9479(h) or
Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org

W Audio Ministry
Set up and operate audio and lighting systems for Sunday worship services at 8:30 a.m., 9:40 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 6:00 p.m., as well as special programs. Teams are scheduled on a rotating basis
Contact: Dennis Hoffman at 979-4375(h) or
Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org

W Television Ministry
Direct or operate television cameras for taping weekly worship services on Sunday mornings for television broadcast. Volunteers arrive at 8:00 a.m. and serve at the 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. services, as well as special programs.
Contact: B.C. Romano at 871-7324 or bc.romano@dawsonchurch.org

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Pastoral Care


W Lord’s Supper Ministry
Prepare materials and set up for the Lord’s Supper every time it is scheduled.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

W Hospital Visitation
Visit members who are in the hospital and follow up for one month with visits and/or phone contacts.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

W Care and Transportation Teams
Provide transportation to medical services or other similar services for individuals who are receiving regular medical treatment. Provide services such as shopping for those who have no family and cannot get out of their homes. Provide respite service for people who are caregivers for individuals with chronic illnesses. Volunteers serve as part of a team.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

W Stephen Ministry
Minister to individuals going through crises or major transitions in their lives. Participants receive fifty hours of training and serve for two years with twice monthly continuing education and supervision sessions. Generally, a Stephen Minister’s volunteer service involves about ten hours a month.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

W Dawson Military Ministry
This team meets on a monthly basis to send cards and gifts as well as to pray for our military personnel who have a connection with the Dawson Family of Faith.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

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Spiritual Formation

W Discover Dawson Hosts/Hostesses
Discover Dawson is an informational meeting helping prospects and new members discover Dawson’s vision, ministry opportunities, staff, and facilities. Hosts/Hostesses provide help and hospitality at these meetings as well as contact prospects to attend.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org

W Journey
Journey Life Groups provide a small setting (40 people or less) for people to learn how to live out their faith together. Groups study Scripture, engage in discussion-based learning, share meals together, receive the Lord’s Supper, serve in the community, build friendships, join in recreation, and take rests. All of the groups share the same schedule as they discuss and apply the theme and main points from the message in the 9:40 a.m. Chapel worship celebration.
Groups are designed to accommodate a variety of ages/life stages. Opportunities include: help coordinate serving opportunities in the community, lead or co-lead a group, minister with children or youth who come to a life group.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org

W New Member Assimilation Team
Help new members find their place of service. This team will interview new church members for the purpose of connecting them with various ministry areas at Dawson or in the community.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org

W Intercessory Prayer Team
Pray one hour a week at a specified time in the Intercessory Prayer Center. Volunteers receive prayer requests by way of phone or cards, pray for those persons, and write notes to those who requested the prayer.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org

B UAB Medical/Dental Fellowship
Minister to first and second year medical and dental students at Dawson’s weekly lunch meeting in Volker Hall. Medical professionals are needed to speak to the large group as well as lead small group Bible studies.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org

W Men’s Small Group Leader
Small group Bible studies meet to encourage and support one another on the Christian journey.
• Leader: lead teacher/facilitator for the regular small group gatherings
• Co-Leader: a leader in training, the role of the co-leader is to prepare to lead a group in the future. The co-leader facilitates gatherings in the absence of the leader.
• Host: Contact the group each week and coordinate snacks for the gatherings. 
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org

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Greeters/Ushers

W Worship Service Greeters, Ushers and Offering Collectors
Greet people and assist in seating at the 8:30 a.m. or 9:40 a.m. Chapel services, or the 9:40 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. Sanctuary services. Serve at evening worship or special events. As needed, assist in offering collection.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org or
Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org

W Door Greeters
Greet people as they enter the church for Bible study and worship or assist our guests at our Information Centers in locating Bible study classes at the 8:30 a.m. or 9:40 a.m. hours each Sunday.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

W Sunday School Greeters
Greet Sunday morning guests at the Information Centers. Help guests choose a Bible study class, locate a room, and introduce guests to a class host.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

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Other Ministries

W Office Volunteers
Assist with various clerical and office responsibilities between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Limited training provided as needed.
Contact: Carol Koon at 871-7324 or carol.koon@dawsonchurch.org

W Phone Volunteers
Answer phones and receive people in the church office
during services on Sundays and during the week in the absence of the church receptionist.
Contact: Carol Koon at 871-7324 or carol.koon@dawsonchurch.org

W Flowers Ministry Team
Re-arrange flowers from the Sanctuary on Monday mornings and deliver them to homebound members. Also,
prepare flowers for special occasions.
Contact: Lil Hurst at 967-8314(h)

W Food Service Volunteers
Serve meals at a variety of times and occasions through the Food Service Ministry of Dawson.
Contact: Amy Turnbow at 871-7324 or amy.turnbow@dawsonchurch.org

W DawsonLife Team
Serve on a team to design and publish DawsonLife magazine. Serve in one or more of the following areas: design, journalism, photography, layout, editing, or proofing.
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org

W Library Team
Dawson’s Library houses a 12,000-item inventory of books and audiovisuals including collections for children, juveniles, adults, and Hispanics, as well as a large print collection. Volunteers prepare items for circulation, maintain computer data base, assist patrons, and conduct reading clubs.
Contact: Luticia Kovarik at 871-7324 or luticia.kovarik@dawsonchurch.org

W Personal Budget Advisory Ministry
Provide education on personal budgeting to church members and benevolent families.
Contact: Tom Thompson at 871-7324 or tom.thompson@dawsonchurch.org

W Set-Ups and Decorations
Volunteers assist with set-ups for banquets, meetings, conferences and other special events. Help with setting and decorating tables as well as with other assignments.
Contact: Amy Turnbow at 871-7324 or amy.turnbow@dawsonchurch.org

W The Market Place
Sell Christian growth books and other materials on Sunday mornings after the worship services.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org

W Homebound Visitor
Many of our senior adults are in situations due to health that do not allow them to attend church activities. The Homebound Ministry goes to their homes each month and delivers Home Life, Mature Living, and Open Windows. The worker serves as a messenger of the church’s love for that person and a contact for the church to keep up with that person’s health. Homebound workers pick up the material in the church office each month.
Contact: Dennis Goodwin at 871-7324 or dennis.goodwin@dawsonchurch.org

W Transportation
Transportation is a vital part of the senior adult ministry. Drivers are needed for the two church mini-buses (no CDL required) in town for events and to the church. In addition drivers are needed occasionally to drive their cars to help with transportation to doctors, appointments, etc.
Contact: Dennis Goodwin at 871-7324 or dennis.goodwin@dawsonchurch.org

W Easter Traffic Team
Assist in traffic control and conversion of selected streets to one-way traffic on Easter Sunday morning.
Contact: Rowan Smith at 871-7324 or rowan.smith@dawsonchurch.org

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Preschool Ministry


W Sunday School Leaders
Teach Bible truths and concepts to preschool children ages birth through kindergarten on Sunday mornings. Training and continued support is given to teachers to help them grow in their teaching experience.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org

W Excel Hour
Excel Hour is the hour after Sunday School. Teach, interact with, and play with preschool children ages birth through kindergarten who do not yet attend worship services. Serve only six times a year.
Contact: Donna Allan at 871-7324 or donna.allan@dawsonchurch.org

W Cradle Care Ministry Team
Ministry team members serve as caregivers to expectant parents. Caregivers relay information to the church when the baby is born. They serve to develop relationships with parents, help introduce first time parents to the preschool ministry, and assist with the families’ dedication.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org

W Hearts and Hands Ministry
Hearts and Hands is a volunteer-led ministry to provide assistance for children with special needs. Sign-up to be a Sunday School or Wednesday night buddy for a preschool or school-age child. Provide one-on-one care on a rotating basis in classroom settings for children with special needs.
Contact: Laura DiFatta at 824-0876 or
Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org

W Moms and More Childcare
Provide care for preschoolers during Moms and More on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Contact: Donna Allan at 871-7324 or donna.allan@dawsonchurch.org

W Preschool Computer Check-in Team
Volunteers who are comfortable using computers and who have a helpful and encouraging spirit, are needed to assist parents as they use the check-in scan cards for Sunday School. Team members rotate responsibilities on Sunday mornings, between 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.
Contact: Keith Vinson at 871-7324 or keith.vinson@dawsonchurch.org

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Children/Preteens


W Sunday School Leaders
Lead children or preteens in grades 1 through 6 in weekly Bible study and/or Bible activities using age-appropriate curriculum. Training, literature and supplies are provided.  Your investment in the lives of children/preteens will develop relationships and encourage them as they travel their faith journey.
Contact: Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org or
Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org

W Children’s Ministry
A team of six to eight adults who assist the Children’s Ministry by evaluating curriculum and programs and serving as a source of current trends and needs of children and their families. Team members serve a two-year term.
Contact: Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org

W Preteen Ministry
VIBE—Dawson’s Preteen Ministry welcomes those who are interested in serving on Sunday mornings, with special events, or with behind-the-scene/organizational efforts.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org

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Quest


Wednesday night Music and Missions programs for Preschoolers, Children, and Preteens—include:

Children’s Choirs
Direct, accompany, or assist with preschool and children’s choir rehearsals for 1st through 6th graders. Volunteers are not required to be trained musicians.
Contact: Tracy Hanrahan at 871-7324 or tracy.hanrahan@dawsonchurch.org

Preschool Quest
Volunteers teach preschoolers (age 2½– kindergarten) about music and missions with Bible-based, age-appropriate lessons and activities to instill a love for worshipping God and serving
others in Jesus’ name.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org

Girls in Action
Lead and teach missions to girls in grades one through six. Classes meet from August through April on Wednesdays from 6:40 p.m.–7:15 p.m.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org

Boys’ Missions
Guide boys, grades one through six, in learning ways they can serve God by serving others. Participate in mission action opportunities on Wednesday nights, 6:40 p.m.–7:15 p.m. during the school year.
Contact: Terry Knight at 978-9388 Coordinator for Grades 1-6 or
Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org

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KidLife Week


KidLife Week is Dawson’s Vacation Bible School, an event that attracts hundreds of preschoolers and children, many of whom are unchurched. You can make a difference in the life of a child. Students and adults are needed as KidLife Volunteers the first week of June, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon.

Preschool KidLife Week Workers
Lead preschoolers (ages birth to six) as they participate in Bible study, crafts, recreation, special events, and praise times.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org

Children’s KidLife Week Workers
Lead children (grades 1-4) in a small group Bible study, or assist in games, activities, and crafts.
Contact: Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org

Preteen KidLife Week Workers

Work with preteens (grades 5-6). Leadership consists of teaching a small group, assisting with special snacks, or leading a workshop of choice.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org

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Students — Grades 7-12


W Student Ministry Team (Sunday School Leadership)
Develop relationships with students, teach, call, and visit members and non-members. Special training and materials provided.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

W Wednesday Nights
Love and mentor the youth of our community in eXtreme: worship for Middle School students, and The Underground: worship for High School students, Wednesday at 6:15 p.m.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org
Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org

W Acteens (Girls Missions, Grades 7–12)
Guide teenage girls in learning about missions through various activities and hands-on experience. Groups meet Wednesday nights from 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Contact: Beth Leach at 631-1485

W MULLIT: Men Understanding Life Lessons In Time
Serve in MULLIT Wednesday nights in the Family Recreation Center from 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Young men (grades 7-8) participate in group games, fellowship, prayer time, and accountability groups.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org

W B Puppet Team Leadership
Work with the teenage puppet team to assist in preparation for puppet skits. Enlist, encourage, and train teens and assist in preparation and performances.
Contact: Andrea Coleman at 621-5779(h)

W Youth Discipleship Group Leaders
Lead a small group of youth in weekly Bible study (materials provided) and build relationships with students that will last a lifetime.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

W Youth Retreats
Lead small group Bible study (materials provided), participate in all activities, and assist with miscellaneous activities for youth in grades 7 through 12 on selected weekends.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

B Breakaway
For five days in the spring, participate in activities with youth in grades 7–12. Lead Bible studies or prayer groups or help with recreation activities.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

B Student Life Camp
Chaperone and fellowship with Middle School students (grades 6-8) for one week at this life-changing youth camp.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org or
Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org

B World Changers
Work with and chaperone teenagers as they repair homes throughout the southeastern United States. Typically, trips are one week in duration.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

W DNow
DiscipleNow is a weekend Bible study and worship time held in church members’ home. Serve as a host home by providing a home for 10 to 12 students Friday evening through Sunday morning, or prepare food for one meal with a team of 2 to 3 people for Saturday breakfast or lunch for approximately 15 people, or assist with miscellaneous organizational tasks.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

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College Ministries


W College Hosts
Meet and greet college students at various events and build relationships with them. Serve on a rotating basis.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

W Sunday School Teachers
Teach varying topics to a college Sunday School class of twenty to thirty students.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org

W Adopt A Student
Provide a family atmosphere for a student who is attending college or university far from home.
Contact: Brady Haynes at 871-7324 or brady.haynes@dawsonchurch.org or
Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org



Adult Ministries


W Sunday School Leaders
Provide leadership for married and single adult Sunday School in order for Sunday School classes to effectively reach people for Christ through:

Teaching—prepare and present life-changing Bible study
Outreach—consistently contact visitors
Care—consistently contact class members and guests

Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org
Dennis Goodwin at 871-7324 or dennis.goodwin@dawsonchurch.org

W Short-term Bible Studies
Lead short-term adult Bible studies during the week.
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org or
Dennis Goodwin at 871-7324 or dennis.goodwin@dawsonchurch.org

W Women’s Ministry
Women’s Ministry includes weekday and evening Bible studies, Moms & More (monthly meeting for stay-at-home moms in the morning and working moms in the evening), and special women’s events throughout the year. Volunteers are needed for a variety of opportunities—leading a Bible study, greeting participants, organizing, planning, and implementing special events. Volunteers may participate on an event basis or throughout the year.
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org

W Boomer Ministry
Help develop and implement activities in a ministry of involvement of those 50-65 years of age.
Contact: Dennis Goodwin at 871-7324 or dennis.goodwin@dawsonchurch.org

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Health and Wellness


W Blood Pressure Team
This team includes medical personnel who check blood pressure on Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings. Volunteers are requested to serve once per month.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W Connection Worship Service
Connection is an 11:00 a.m. worship experience for individuals with moderate dementia. Volunteers are needed to assist with this service.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W First Aid Team
This team includes medical personnel who respond to emergencies on Sunday mornings and during special events at the church. Volunteers are requested to serve once a month.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W Disaster Relief Shelter
Serve on the Dawson Disaster Relief Shelter Team. Responsibilities include: serving food, setting up cots,
distributing blankets and hygiene kits, and registration of occupants.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W Pet Shelter
When our disaster relief shelter is activated, the pet shelter will be available so that those who seek refuge from storms do not have to leave their pets behind. Volunteers help care for pets.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W CPR and First Aid Training
Volunteers are needed who are certified to teach CPR classes. They would assist twice a year with a certification course on Dawson’s campus.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W Hospitality Team for Health and Wellness Ministry Events
This team would serve as host/hostess during special events sponsored by the ministry. This could include a variety of opportunities—from serving food at a cooking class to welcoming guests at a health program to assisting at the canteen during a blood drive. Every age is welcome to participate.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W Medical Equipment Project
Volunteers inventory donated medical equipment. This medical equipment is stored on campus and is checked out by individuals as needed.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

W Speaker’s Bureau
Share your expertise by teaching a health class taught on Dawson’s Campus.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org

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Recreation


W Arts and Crafts Instructor
Teach or assist in teaching a craft or hobby for children or adults.
Contact: Vivian Howard at 943-0742

W Community Basketball
Provide support for community basketball one night each week. Present a devotional on occasion.
Contact: Chris Hunsberger at 879-1758 or chris.hunsberger@dawsonchurch.org
or Eric Hill at 879-1758 or eric.hill@dawsonchurch.org

W Children/Youth Basketball Coach
Coach a boys or girls basketball team during three to four month season, November through February.
Provide support for community basketball one night each week. Present a devotional on occasion.
Contact: Chris Hunsberger at 879-1758 or chris.hunsberger@dawsonchurch.org
or Eric Hill at 879-1758 or eric.hill@dawsonchurch.org
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Community Ministries


B Pathways Ministry
Visit a shelter for homeless women and children to provide a fun activity, refreshments, a devotional, and prayer time. Serve on the third Thursday of each month from 6:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Transportation is provided from the church. Volunteers are also needed to collect and deliver furniture and household items to help residents furnish their new homes.
Contact: Ruth Todd at 942-3160(h)

B Big Brothers/Big Sisters
Big Brothers/Big Sisters provides an adult role model for children from single parent families. Volunteers establish a relationship with a child and spend at least three to five hours every other week with the child. Requires a one year commitment. Some training provided.
Contact: Sue Johnson at Big Brothers/Big Sisters, 939-5590 or bbbsbham.org

B The Crisis Center
The Crisis Center provides telephone counseling, crisis intervention, information, and referrals to adults, teenagers, and children. It provides a helping response to rape victims while they are in a hospital emergency room. Volunteers provide services at assigned times at The Crisis Center offices. Approximately 50 hours of training and a one year commitment is required.
Contact: Michael Fallingant at The Crisis Center, 323-7782

B Meals on Wheels
Deliver meals to people (mostly elderly with health problems) in the Homewood area.
Contact: Alma Moore at 592-0413, Ext. 4

B Affinity Home Hospice Services
Affinity serves patients and their families facing end of life issues. In addition to the professional staff, volunteers are an extended arm of these services to patients through visits, meals, phone calls, etc. 
Contact: Cheryl Acton at Affinity Home Hospice at cherylmacton@yahoo.com

B Cahaba Valley Health Care
Assist with screenings for a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing access to quality healthcare for the underserved, primarily Hispanic, communities in Jefferson and Shelby Counties.
Contact: Edwina Taylor at 991-8771 or edwina@cahabavalleyhealthcare.org

B The Lovelady Center
Provides programs for women involved in the criminal justice system and their children that help rebuild their lives and give them the ability to succeed.
Contact: Vernetta Young at 853-1064 or vyoung@loveladycenter.org

B Better Basics
A non-profit children’s literacy agency provides reading intervention and enrichment programs to children K-5 in all Birmingham City Elementary Schools and a few surrounding schools. Volunteer commitment is one hour per week during school hours from October through March. No experience is necessary.
Contact: Andrea Hubbert at 944-2928, ext. 323 or volcoord@betterbasics.org

B YWCA
The YWCA provides services addressing the needs of women and families, including the homeless and victims of domestic violence. Volunteers assist in after-school enrichment program, domestic violence shelter, evening childcare, clothes closet, or the children in crisis support group.
Contact: Suzanne Durham at YWCA, 322-9922

B Jimmie Hale Mission
Jimmie Hale Mission provides food, shelter, clothes, and rehabilitation for homeless men. Volunteers can assist in serving meals, providing donations, conducting worship services, or teaching skills. Visit the website of Jimmie Hale Mission, http://www.jimmiehalemission.com.
Contact: Wes Parkhurst at Jimmie Hale Mission, 324-2271

B Restoration Academy in Fairfield
Volunteers provide support for this private urban Christian school which offers Christ-centered education to children grades K4-12.
Contact: Ty Williams at 785-8805 or Etywilliams@aol.com

B Brother Bryan Mission
Brother Bryan Mission is a Christ centered ministry to homeless men providing long-term housing, clothing, food for the body and the soul, and assistance to rebuild their lives. Volunteers provide and serve meals, teach Bible studies, conduct worship services and extend a helping hand. Donations of all kinds are needed and welcome.  Visit the website at http://www.brotherbryanmission.com.
Contact: John Bryan or Steve Brown at Brother Bryan Mission, 322-0092

B Firehouse Shelter Soup Kitchen
Prepare and serve lunch to homeless people at the Firehouse Shelter Soup Kitchen. Serve on either the first Wednesday or the third Tuesday of each month, from 9:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Participants may choose from a fixed or flexible schedule or serve on a fill-in basis.
Contact: Cyndi Gammill at 823-7419(h)

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Evangelism and Missions


B Hispanic Missions
Become involved in local Hispanic mission projects. Assist our Hispanic congregation in their efforts to identify and minister to unchurched Hispanics in the Birmingham area. Hispanic health screenings help meet physical needs. Help conduct Vacation Bible School for Hispanic children and youth during the summer.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org

W English Classes
Teach conversational English to internationals. Classes meet on Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and on Thursdays, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. from September through May. Volunteers are also needed to drive vans, serve as greeters, and serve refreshments.
Contact: Loretta Smith at 941-3197, Linda Stephens at 956-3460, or Debbie Moss at 871-7324

W Decision Counselors
Assist people who make decisions during worship services. Help complete decision cards, pray with and encourage the person, and stand with them after they are introduced to the congregation. Serve at one service a month.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org

W Baptism Ministry
Coordinate the baptismal ceremony. On Sunday afternoon contact those scheduled to be baptized, meet with them prior to the baptismal service, and assist them in preparation. Serve one month out of three.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org

W Adult Mission Groups
Volunteer to help lead groups that meet monthly to support missions, pray for missionaries, and participate in mission projects. Groups include World Missions Group, Dawson South Group, and Missions-Hearted Women. New groups can be formed to meet specific needs and interests.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org

W Operation Christmas Child
Operation Christmas Child is a nationwide ministry to collect shoe boxes of gifts for underprivileged children around the world. Volunteers will work at the church at any available time during a two-week period in November and will receive boxes and package them for shipment.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org

B Medical Apartments
The Medical Apartments provide accommodations for families of hospitalized patients.  Volunteers assist with cleaning and maintaining apartments, doing chores, and visiting with residents. Dawson has two ongoing ministry groups.
Contact: Manda Humber at 969-3672(h)

W Hemmed in Prayer
Use your sewing machine to produce simple garments for needy children in various countries.
Contact: Sandra McDonald at 967-8707(h)

B Food For Friends
In conjunction with the Birmingham Baptist Association, prepare and/or serve meals to homeless people on Thanksgiving weekend each year. Meals served are breakfast on Thursday through Sunday and lunch on Friday and Saturday. May serve individually or as a group. More information is available on the Birmingham Baptist Association website, http://www.bbaonline.org.
Contact: Stuart Sentell at Birmingham Baptist Association, 599-3245

B Metro Changers
Sunday School classes, families, and other groups can help renovate homes for elderly and low income families. Projects may include painting, building a wheelchair ramp, or re-roofing. Metro Changers is a cooperative ministry of the churches of the Birmingham Baptist Association.
Contact: Stuart Sentell or Butch Henderson at BBA, 599-3245 or info@bbaonline.org

B Ministry Center at Green Springs
Provides food, English classes, and the gospel message on a weekly basis at the former Green Springs Baptist Church.
Contact: Ray Flynn at 326-1211 or rfly432@mindspring.com

B Unlimited Partnerships
This ministry strives to meet the needs among Baptist churches in New Orleans following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.  Help train and assimilate new believers in churches that need assistance in the area of Christian education.
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org

B The Center at Central Park
Birmingham Baptist Association churches work together at The Center to meet needs in the West End and Ensley communities. Tutors can work with schoolchildren, GED students, or adult literacy programs. Others work with a senior adult ministry or with the home medical equipment donation/refurbishing/loan program. More information is available on the BBA website at http://www.bbaonline.org/tcacp
Contact: Grace McGraw at The Center, 783-9170 or gracem@bbaonline.org

B Spirit of Luke Ministries
Strives to meet the spiritual, physical and educational needs of those living in Alabama’s Black Belt region
Contact: Henry Ford at GALAZA@aol.com

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Hispanic Ministries


Dawson’s Hispanic Ministry is a community of believing Hispanics who gather together to worship God and serve others. Members of Dawson who speak some level of Spanish or desire to work with the Hispanic congregation can serve in the following ways:

W Bible Study and Discipleship
Lead Wednesday night Bible studies from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., on a rotational basis. Lead satellite Bible studies in homes in several locations around the Birmingham area on different week nights from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org

W Music
Sing, play an instrument, or direct during the Sunday morning worship at 11:00 a.m. Choir and band rehearsals are on Friday nights from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org or Christy Silvestre (Choir Director) at 243-1777

W Hispanic Vacation Bible School
Teach or help with crafts, serving refreshments, sports, driving, etc. Scheduled in July.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org or Betty Cole at 942-1198

W Interpreting
Interpret between English and Spanish during the worship services and at various events or in various situations to help diminish the language barrier.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org

W Youth
Assist with Bible study and special activities. Help with youth retreats as chaperones.
Contact: Randy Poe at 915-7775

W Childcare
Provide childcare during various functions, including Choir and band rehearsal on Friday nights from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org

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M-POWER


M-POWER shares God’s grace by providing services to meet the needs of families to help them become self-sufficient. Learn more at the M-POWER website http://www.mpowerministries.org.
The following ministries are all part of M-POWER.

B Gifts from the King
Assist with activities and crafts with children and youth of the community families involved with M-POWER. This is a time of celebration and worship to remember the true meaning of Christmas. Held at the M-POWER building on a Saturday in December.
Contact: Sonya Bumpers at 595-5959 (M-POWER Office)

B Library
Assist in establishing and maintaining a library at the M-POWER building to support the after school program. Work any time Monday through Thursday afternoons.
Contact: Kelly Connor at 595-5959 (M-POWER Office)
or Kelly.connor@mpowerministries.org

B Literacy
Tutor an adult in basic literacy. Training is provided. The tutor and student typically meet once each week.
Contact: Beverly Sansom at 595-5959

B After School Tutoring Program
Help children in grades one through six strengthen their skills in math, science, reading, and writing. Enrichment activities include Bible study, art, music, and theater. Program operates at the M-POWER building on Monday through Thursday, September through May. Serve as a tutor or as an instructor one day a week from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. or as a van driver from 2:45 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Contact: Kelly Connor at 595-5959 (M-POWER Office)

B Health Clinic
Volunteer doctors, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, counselors, and receptionists serve uninsured residents of Birmingham. The clinic, located in the M-POWER building, is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. and Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Contact: Betty McCulloch at 595-5959 (M-POWER Office)

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International Mission Projects


Over the past ten years The Dawson Family of Faith has sent
mission teams to 21 countries. Many of these projects are conducted through multi year partnerships.  In 2010 mission teams will serve in the following countries. For information on these projects contact Ben Hale at ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org

Honduras--Forgotten Children’s Ministry
Sumatra, Indonesia--Conversational English Ministry
Venezuela--Water Purification
Akot, Sudan--Pastor Training
Ecuador--Soccer Evangelism
Ukraine--Life Song for Orphans
Brazil--Construction
Kajo Keji, Sudan--Medical/Church Planting
Swaziland, South Africa--Children’s Hope Chest
Arequipa, Peru--Medical/Church Planting

United States Projects


Mission projects will be conducted in several places in the United States in 2010.  The complete list of locations and dates is yet to be determined, but the projects will include the following:

Dawson Builders--Church Construction
Wingate, New Mexico--Family Mission Project
Birmingham--Metro Changers Home Renovation
Birmingham--World Changers Home Renovation
New Orleans--Gentilly Baptist Church Partnership
South Alabama--Spirit of Luke Black Belt Ministry

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