Wimberley’s nonprofit health and human service organization, The Barnabas Connection, opened their doors last week to visitors curious about their many programs to connect people with financial aid, counseling, education, health services and emergency support. The open house which marked their fourth year at their location on Spoke Hollow Drive, was decorated for the holidays in anticipation of their yearly Christmas Store. Board President Dawn Riley, along with Board Members Judy Dunn, Mike Crusham and Charmaine Wilde greeted guests and were on hand to answer questions about their many programs.
Visitors enjoyed cookies, hot chocolate, coffee and other treats as they browsed a sampling of toys and gifts ready for the Christmas Store. Started in 2014, the Christmas Store allows registered parents and families to purchase new Christmas gifts at a very reduced rates. Each family can choose from household items, games, bicycles, coats, toys and other items.
The self-guided tour included a glimpse into the school supplies store that stocks items for the Back to School Fiesta held each summer prior to the beginning of the new school year. The fiesta provides school children in the Wimberley Independent School District with backpacks, school supplies, referrals and services such as vision and dental screening, thanks to multiple community partnerships, donors and volunteers. Dana Swanson and Kristine Parkerson showed guests around the ideally organized space filled with everything a student needed to enter the school year.
Just down the hall from the school supplies store in Barnabas’ spacious facility, guests could explore Logan’s Dugout, so named to honor the life of Logan Overall. Above its artificial turf floor covering, sports equipment was displayed for students interested in athletics. Inside guests chatted with Board members Erin Conley and Julie Overall. The dugout allows parents to equip their children at no cost so that they can participate in school sports and other extracurricular activities. The donation of new and gently-used equipment makes Logan’s Dugout possible. Monetary donations allow specific items to be purchased.
Conversation with Former Board President Sandra Londa, provided details about the workings of the organization. For the last decade or more, Londa is the voice callers are likely to hear each Monday morning when she staffs the Barnabas Help Line. After intake, Case Manager Daphne Smith shared how families are guided through the system.
To learn more about The Barnabas Connection’s mission, services and history, or to volunteer, visit BarnabasConnects.org.
