PM - Future Vision

Future Vision
By Chris Book

Miles to Go...

The woods are lovely, dark and deep.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

With these well-known words from his poem, Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening, Robert Frost poignantly captures the necessity and value
of stopping to ponder and appreciate the present, while being mindful of today’s obligations and of the work that lies ahead. As avid Appalachian
Trail hikers, fellow staff member Steve Reist and I anticipate the
opportunities to pause and take in the beauty of a rhododendron forest or
a mountain panorama. But, we rarely linger for very long, knowing that our shelter for the night usually lies many arduous miles down the trail.

Paxton Ministries is on a similar journey. In the midst of our daily routine, we take time in this report to reflect on God’s blessing and provision, to remember and celebrate the moment. But this is no time to relax. Not forgotten are the promises we have made to our residents, their families, the state and county officials, donors, volunteers, and God. And what lies ahead? The next year promises ample opportunities for change, growth, and new ministry. We still have a long way to go.

The woods are lovely…
Toward the end of 2007, our staff took time to remember. For us, that often happens through storytelling. We remembered with gratitude and a smile: William, who realized a long-time goal of moving into his own apartment, but still appears occasionally and walks into the dining room as though he never left. Charlie, who married the love of his life and purchased a trailer, but still brings his bride back most Sundays for our worship service. John, who retired in 2007 after 35 years at the same job. Ben, Tim, Jason, Todd, John S., and John M., who experienced the adventure of a lifetime during the fall trip to Puerto Rico. Meryl, who recently moved in after her mother’s passing and says, “This is my home–permanently!”

We also remembered God’s provision. This year, through a generous grant from the Kline Foundation and many private donors, we completed a 10-year goal of installing central air conditioning in Paxton Street Home. Again this year, we had sufficient revenue to meet our expenses.

Promises to keep…
The road ahead contains many of the same routines as years past. Again this year, we will prepare and serve more than 90,000 meals, wash over 13,000 sheets and towels, and clean bathrooms more than 6,000 times. Our mission includes the provision of consistent, high-quality care that honors God and offers dignity to each of our 90 residents. Often, keeping that promise involves going the second and third mile in advocacy. Recently, a male resident was experiencing pain and discomfort associated with a complex medical condition. While he was unaware of the potential seriousness of his condition, an alert staff member decided to take him to the emergency room, waited while he was being seen, explained his situation to the doctor, and stayed with him until he was admitted four hours later–all on her own initiative and after she was supposed to be off duty.

We also work hard to minimize the disruption and anxiety that can result with a highrate of staff turnover. In 2007, our staff turnover rate was less than 15%. Of the new staff hired, two were former staff members who returned. Our average tenure on staff is 6.5 years.

Many Personal Care providers in Pennsylvania become dispirited when they consider the daunting task of compliance with state regulations. Our challenge is great, but we do not despair. The result of an
unannounced inspection in July was 10 minor citations and a nod of affirmation from the officials for the caliber of our care. As part of an overall strategic planning process this year, the board and staff reaffirmed the mission and values of Paxton Ministries. We are committed to providing a supportive, family-like environment where love and compassion are a way of life–where dignity and self-worth are
recognized in every individual. The care we give will be offered in a Christ-centered community that nurtures each individual’s potential for recovery and self-determination.

Miles to go…
In 2007, our board and staff devoted much time in thought, discussion and prayer to discern God’s vision for our ministry. The result is a plan to offer a continuum of recovery-oriented community living options. This would expand and enhance the range of housing choices currently offered at Paxton Ministries. Our goal in 2008 is to open our first Fairweather Lodge, a shared housing and employment program that allows 6-8 adults with serious mental illness to live in the community. We believe a Lodge will offer our residents hope–hope that they can heal and grow.

Since 1981, the message at Paxton Ministries has been one of hope. Here, literally hundreds of people have found hope in the midst of very challenging circumstances. In addition to being hope-based at Paxton Ministries, we are moving toward becoming recovery-oriented. We believe that people with serious and persistent mental illness can recover. With the proper supports and encouragement from peers, family, and staff, they can hold meaningful jobs that pay a competitive wage. With minimal staff support, they can manage their finances, medications, and household responsibilities. Dignity and self-confidence will once again fill their lives with hope. God has called us to open that door of hope and encourage those who will to take steps toward recovery.

In 2008, we will once again step out in faith and trust that the God of all hope will lead us on the journey. At times, it can be an arduous trek, but we will walk with our residents to the end. Thank you for joining us on that journey.

Chris Book, Executive Director

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