Ecuador Day 5!

El Reypin at the park, Supermercado, Youth World, La Casa Gabriel

Today is brought to you by Jacob C and Palmer 

View from the top of Altagpamba

We had an awesome time with the kids of El Reypin at the park

Alejandro loved to knock Jacobs hat off 

The top 3 items we bought from the market were tea, banchis, and chocolate

                                                                                        At the end of the day we went to a ministry of E=H called La Casa Gabriel and thoroughly enjoyed our time there

                

Ecuador Day 4: El Reypin, Games, and the Equator

Today's adventures in Ecuador are brought to you by Gracie and Jacob G!

For Day 4, we went to El Reypin, which is a private school for children intellectual and physical disabilities. Marta, the director, took us on a tour of the school and told us about what the staff does there. We also got to meet the students!

Afterward, we went to a nearby park and played games with the students (but only after warming up with an awesome dance song led by Marta).

We were paired up with the students for these games. Gracie was paired with Alejo (who was extremely sweet and LOVED to run), and Jacob G was paired was Alejandro (who loved stealing his hat). Will had a special assignment; he helped train one of the school's therapy dogs!

We returned to the school and learned about how the school plans to use therapy dogs to help the children. The dogs were incredible!

We got to share our impressions of the school: all of us were so impressed by the level of care the staff there provides. And we loved learning why Marta does this type of work: because it's her calling.

Lunch that day was at John's favorite Greek restaurant. The food was great and the riddle games were intense.

Next we stopped at the Equator Museum, where we learned more about Ecuadorian culture, the equator (obviously), and chocolate production. Half the Fellows became certified Egg Mastery Champions, too; they have official documentation to prove it.

After getting back from the museum, there was some free time before dinner and a group of fellows explored more of El Refugio! 

Our day finished up with dinner at El Refugio and debrief, along with worship led by Ned's trusty guitar.

Stay tuned for Day 5!

Ecuador Day 3: Cottage, Crater, Cuties

You want more Ecuador? Say less!!!!

Welcome to Day 3 of our adventures in Ecuador with Dharma and Haley:

We aren't in Kansas anymore. Hostería Rose Cottage in the daylight was breathtaking. 

And look at those cutie sheep. Jacob and Dharma went flying but gravity got the best of them.

We soaked in the sights (cutie sheep, cutie fellows, and a zipline).

Then we skedaddled back to the kids of Carmen Bajo at Pastor Fabian's property. Breakfast was a glorious symphony of bacon, pancakes, and enough fruit to make a smoothie bar jealous. 

Enter Clara, the Michelangelo of fruit art. 

Then, it was GAME TIME; glorious chaos.

To begin the games, we attempted the human chair- a little tricky due to height disparity. 

 

We played 'grrr' 'chomp' 'ssss' and good ol' backpack, baby, bunkbeds. 

After fun and games, we gathered together for worship and a message. Worship brought the reappearance of our one-hit wonder 'Solo Dios Puede Salvar!' It was still a smash hit.

Noah shared some of his story with the kids in Spanish, encouraging them to say thank you to people they love while they still can.

Joel preached too; he kept things simple and spoke with passion. The kids were reminded that they are princes and princesses of God.

Then, Gracie and Ian came through to perform their favorite song, 'You Forgive Me'.

Look it up. It's catchy. 

The final game involved some suspense and a lot of laughs.

Let's just say it was a mystery we're not qualified to solve. But enjoy some fun faces.

       

We then enjoyed our final meal at Pastor Fabian's property.

 After lunch, we headed down a big hill to find the bus and meet the kids at the Cuicocha Lagoon.

The Cuicocha Lagoon is an active volcanic caldera- 656 ft at its deepest part! Its name comes from the Kichwa indigenous language and means "Lago del Cuy" or Guinea Pig Lake in English! Legend has it, if you spot a golden guinea pig it will give you good fortune! But if it spots you first, you turn into a duck. So look out!

After an awesome boat ride, fellows had a (somewhat stressful) speed run at the Otavalo Market, before reuniting with the kids from Carmen Bajo for an epic dinner (pizza is a universal love language).

 

After dinner, saying goodbye to our friends from Carmen Bajo was bittersweet. (Stephanie and Dharma gave goodbye words!

The bus ride back to El Refugio was a dance party fueled by exhaustion and questionable dance moves. We learned a new dance called the Mayonesa (expertly taught by Chivita) and showed her some of our favorites, too. These sleepy muffins can party.  

After all that fun we made it back to El Refugio, and let's just say Gracie was ready to hit the hay. We feel you, girl. 

So there you have it. Another day in Ecuador! No time change here, still bedtime.

 Dharma and Haley

Ecuador Day 2: Carmen Bajo, Ríos, Chicos

Saturday morning, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast of pancakes, passionfruit, and coffee at El Refugio to give us energy for our first day with the kids.

We began our day at Carmen Bajo, one of the poorest neighborhoods in Quito.

There we met Joel, a youth pastor at Carmen Bajo's local church. He gave us a tour of the neighborhood and shared his incredible life story.

Next, we completed poverty training with Cameron Vivanco from Education Equals Hope.

Key lessons:

• Poverty of Condition vs. Poverty of Being
• It is more blessed to give than to receive (so allow people to give to you!)
• Reciprocal partnership instead of mutual using

Before we left, the Fellows found time for quick games of basketball and volleyball.

We stopped for lunch at Riobambenita and enjoyed fried pork, boiled corn, tree-tomato salsa, pickled onions, fried corn kernels, and avocado!

With our stomachs overflowing and our spirits jubilant, we met up with the kids of Carmen Bajo at Pastor Fabian's beautiful property.

After meeting the kids, we hiked to a nearby creek and played in the water.

Upon returning to Pastor Fabian's property, we debuted our special Spanish song that we had been preparing for weeks: Solo Dios Puede Salvar! It was a smash hit.

Next, Clara shared a message in Spanish based on Colossians 3:23 -- "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord." 

One student was so inspired by Clara that she asked for her outline!

The Fellows ate Cordon Bleu for dinner, while the kids enjoyed good old-fashioned hot dogs around the fire!

After dinner, we boarded our bus and departed for the Rose Cottage, a local hostel that would provide our lodging for the evening.

Though a picture tells a thousand words, we have more words to share than these pictures can tell.

Nevertheless, here are some more photos:

Ecuador Day 1: Old Town Quito, Empanadas, and More! (MC and Will Take Over)

We are so excited to share about our week in Ecuador!!!! 

Welcome to Day 1 of our adventures in Ecuador with Marley Cate and Will:

We headed to the Raleigh Airport at 2 AM on Thursday and were met with a very warm welcome upon arrival in Ecuador by John, Chivita, and Estefi.

On Friday morning we got to take in some of the beautiful scenery at El Refugio (where we stayed for the week) before heading out to explore Old Town Quito. 

First stop: The Basilica del Voto Nacional!

This is the largest neo-gothic Basilica in the Americas and was blessed by Pope John Paul II on January 30, 1985.

The Basilica remains "unfinished" and local legend says the world will end when it is...

We were amazed by the architecture...

...the beautiful views...

 

...and the many steps!

We left from there to see more of Old Town Quito, which we learned is one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial towns in the world! 

We made a stop at Plaza Grande, where we learned about the current president, and enjoyed a pretty traditional lunch where we got to try an array of fresh juices, plantains, lentils, and more! Having fresh juice all week long was a special treat for us! (Passionfruit and soursop juice were some of our favorites!)

We got to take the Metro towards our next stop at Youth World!

The Metro recently opened so it was a pretty big deal that we got to ride it. 

It was so clean!

...but first a quick stop for ice cream!

 MC gives the orange and roasted strawberry/watermelon mint combo a 10/10.

Will was a big fan of the café and chocolate!

We had very informative sessions from Cameron Vivanco at Youth World. We were able to learn about each of the organizations under Youth World, including E=H, which we served with this week. 

She also gave us some tools to not let the fruit resulting from our time in Ecuador die off, as well as encouragement that we could still be seeing fruit resulting from the trip decades from now!

Learning how to make homemade empanadas from Jorge Luis' mom was a highlight of the day for many of us! 

Jacob G. gets the award for best looking empanada!

We can't wait to share more pictures with you throughout the week! 

More pictures from Day 1:

That's it for today! 

- MC and Will

UPDATE Week of March 4

Good times!

The Fellows brought home the golden plastic at the first annual Carolina Cocktail Party!

Round Table at the Bost Cabin!

We had the sweetest time with John and LaDonna on Monday where we ate and sang and shared. 

LaDonna inspired us with both her hospitality and her story!

Clara is devising

Leader Lunch at Truist Park!

It was a day of sport on Wednesday at Truist Park with NC Fusion. 

Sarah Bridges - Chief Experience Officer

Scott Wollaston - Chief Executive Officer

We heard stories, got some great advice and also some swell swag!

Classes at the Fellows House!

Steve Lineberger finished up his four part series on Beautiful Leadership

Steve Angle finished up his three part series on Listening to God

So basically, the Fellows are set for life.

RUF at WSSU!

We had the great opportunity to spend time on Wednesday with our friends at WSSU RUF

Four great panelists shared with us about the state of the church. 

We left so inspired and encouraged. Thank you Jonah, Travon, Christina and team!

Carolina Cocktail!

On Friday, the Fellows headed down to Charlotte to join in the first ever Carolina Cocktail with the Charlotte Fellows, Davidson Fellows, and Greensboro Fellows. Good good good times. 

Each team was to create a drink inspired by their city. Third year Fellow Trent helped us create the Reynolds - smoke and all!

Pray for Caleb!

Our beloved Caleb Hoekstra experienced a set back on his quest to NBA glory. He fell poorly after doing a reverse layup and dislocated his kneecap. 

Surgery awaits. Major bummer. It's going to be a journey. Please Pray!

Recruiting

We are thrilled to announce Madison Hardy to the team!

Madison frankly blew us away! Get ready Winston-Salem...here she comes!

Please help us recruit! We are looking for 12 Fellows to join us for our 24-25 year. We can't do it without prayer and without your help!

Giving

Sarah Angle would love for you to give to the Fellows. 

Here's how:

Send checks to Winston-Salem Fellows

PO Box 20514

WSNC 27120

Or give online:

wsfellows.com/give

try monthly giving. a small amount every month won't hurt and will help us out immensely!

Looking Forward

Monday: Round Table at the Fellows House...no host this week! If you would like to host in the future please contact us!

Tuesday: Prayer

Wednesday: Leader Lunch with Gardner Barrier at FCDS

Thursday-next Thursday: a little thing called Ecuador!

Prayer Matters

Please pray for our trip to Ecuador!

Pray that God would meet us profoundly and use the Fellows to make an impact for the Kingdom.

Pray for our safe and on time travel

Pray for safety and health

Pray for God to show up and show off

Pray for recruiting - specifically for Christa, Seth, Alex, Jed, Ava, and Drew

Pray for our families

More Pics

Keep up sharing the story and spreading the love

 

UPDATE Week of Feb 26

an amazing week in Fellows world. it seems nowadays, everywhere you look, there goes someone connected to this mission...

BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS

welcome to the world Miles Miller!

Andrew and Abby Miller (year three Fellows) wish to introduce you to their Valentines Baby, Miles! Everyone is doing well. 

welcome to the family Zachary!

Zachary Lane made the smartest decision ever and proposed to Brianne Schapira on Saturday! We could not be more excited to welcome you into the family. 

So excited for this Kingdom power couple!

ROUND TABLE

This is the closest picture I could get for our Round Table Meeting. While it is true that we ate dinner at the Fellows House (thanks to the generosity of Denise Heidel!), we did not have breakfast for dinner. We had barbeque. So imagine that plate is barbeque and you get the picture. 

Thanks for special guest Emi Holman who taught us about Ecuadorian Culture!

A JUICY LEADER LUNCH

A Big Highlight this week was our Leader Lunch over at the Enterprise Center with Alvin Borders! Alvin is one of the coolest cats I know. And he brought the food in style in his Food Truck!

If you ever need a Food Truck for an event - go with Queens Wings. Alvin is truly the best.

One of the most generous men I know.

ALUMNI NIGHT

We had a fun filled Friday night with the Fellows Alumni Crowd over at Radar!!!!

FELLOWS SIGHTINGS

Hannah Blaine swooped through town!

Palmer brought friends! Welcome to Winston, guys!

Clara introduced her parents to the crowd. So did Jacob Cairns! We love parents!

Speaking of parents, Christian and Sydney introduced their daughter Ada to coffee on Sunday

The Fellows showed up in force at the Kiwanas Pancake Jamboree!

The two Jacobs joined David and Ned at the Fleet Feet Glow Run

CHURCH SKI TRIP

Noah and Darma were two of the Leaders at the River Oaks Ski Weekend.

RECRUITING

Will was being recruited! Yikes!

Speaking of recruitment, we are waiting to hear back from two offers sent last week. We are in pursuit of several more Fellows. So keep up your praying! It is working. 

If you are aware of a young man or woman who would benefit from a career catalyst community rich experience - please put them in contact with Hef or Ned. Thank you!

winstonsalemfellows@gmail.com would work


GIVING

We need your financial support!

Please give today at

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

David got his drivers permit!

LOOKING FORWARD
Monday: Prayer, Meetings, and Round Table at the Bosts!

Tuesday: Prayer

Wednesday: Leader Lunch at Scott Wollaston, Bible Study, and Career and Grad School Fair at WSSU and Meeting with Students at WSSU

Thursday: Solitude

Friday: Classes and Carolina Cocktail!


PRAYER MATTERS
Pray for Fellows as they prepare to go on our Mission Trip! NEXT WEEK!!!!!

Pray for our recruiting and recruiting for other Fellows Programs

Pray for our families that we would grow in love with each other and Jesus

Pray for our Fellows as they. discern their next step on the journey


MORE PICS

 

Thanks All! Keep sharing the story and spreading the love!!!!!!

UPDATE Week of Feb 19

 Well Fed

As you will see by these pictures, the Fellows were very well fed all week!

Round Table at Ronny's and Celebrating Dharma

It started at Ronny's house. Ronny works with Noah at River Oaks Community Church and has basically become a Fellow. His family prepared a feast for us on Monday. 

It was also Dharma's birthday, which gave us a chance to celebrate her with friends old and new.

Leader Lunch with Bo and Kathy Brookby

This is the second time Valentines Day has fallen on Leader Lunch. This year, Bo and Kathy Brookby, married almost 50 years, shared their California love story with us.

Thanks Bo and Kathy!

Valentines/Galentines

Some Fellows broke into my bathroom (not when I was in there, thank goodness) and surprised me with some "gifts"

Hef had the gals over for Galentines 

Alumni Night

On Feb 13, (I know I am out of order chronologically) the Fellows and Alums gathered at one of our favorite watering holes

Bible Study and Class

Not sure I can explain this picture, but we had a great Bible Study. 

Classes on Friday are with two Steves. 

Steve Lineberger and Steve Angle. Quite the lineup.

Dogs and Families Come to Visit

Clara's family joined us this weekend!

As did Marleys! including Tank!

As did Palmers!

Welcome to Winston-Salem!

Whitmans, Harrimans and Andersons!!!

Lot 63

It was a big weekend with the soft opening of Lot 63. Trent Hancock (Fellows Alum is the General Managers). Jen Sanders (Fellows leader and ministry partner is a barista!)

The Bells (Fellows family friends - multiple times) were there

Kelly Martin, Fellows Alum, came all the way from Greenville, NC!

The Fellows came out in force to show support!

Recruiting

We are thrilled to welcome Drew Huffman from UNC - Chapel Hill to our team! Drew Is an all around amazing guy. He is going to fit right in. 

Welcome Drew. 

We interviewed two more potential Fellows last week. And we are working on a few more who haven't applied yet...yet!

We have some momentum, so keep on praying and connecting!

Giving

We need your support!

Please consider donating today. Every dollar counts!

Our mailing address is 

PO Box 20514, WSNC 27120

our online giving platform is 

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

Try giving monthly! that's what my wife and I do.

Looking Forward

Monday: Round Table with Denise Heidel and Emi Holman (special guest)

Tuesday: Prayer

Wednesday: Alvin Borders Leader Lunch and Bible Study, RUF at WSSU!

Friday: Classes and Alumni Night

Prayer Matters

We need y'alls prayers.

Pray for Fellows as they dig deeper into who they are and where that leads them.

Pray for our finances. We need to raise some money!

Pray for our recruiting. 12 Fellows for next year. 6 guys. 6 gals.

Pray for health for us and our families.

More Pics

Thanks you all. Keep sharing the story and spreading the love

UPDATE Week of Feb 11

four generations of Fellows right there

Sweet Week

Round Table with the Swayne's

Will's host family hosted all of us on Monday. What a great evening, and even a Round Table!

Leader Lunch and Service at the Bethesda Center

Bo Burns, Bruce Wissinger (not pictured) and Ms. Trina shared their stories as well as the story of the Bethesda Center with us.

After a quick lunch it was time to get to work on a deep clean!

What a sweet privilege to love our neighbor. Thanks for the opportunity Bethesda Center!

Forum on Faith and Culture with Gary Haugen

Speaking of special treats. Gary Haugen, the founder of International Justice Mission came to Winston-Salem to speak to our community. 

The Fellows were invited and had the chance to spend a little extra time with this visionary, yet humble, man. What a gift!

Alumni Sightings

Three generations of Fellows and a Board Member

Bailey is getting coffee before heading into the meeting

three generations of family friends

Christian, a new dad, a board member, and an alum

Hayes, an alum, leads a small group that includes my son!

Recruiting Update

Bottom line: keep praying!

We are awaiting to hear back from a few Fellows, interview a few more, and await the applications of a few more were speaking to. 

We are slowly inching toward our class of 2024-25. 

If you know of anyone who may be interested, please send them our way. 

winstonsalemfellows@gmail.com

Giving 

We are also inching toward our financial goal of $75k of individual donations for 2024.

Please donate today. Or if you intend to donate but don't want to donate today, let us know and we will send you a reminder when you want us to remind you!

But if you want to simply get it done today. 

Click https://www.wsfellows.com/give

We also accept checks!

send to PO Box 20514. Winston-Salem, NC 27120

Prayer Matters

Keep praying for Fellows for next year - 12 total. 6 guys. 6 gals.

Pray for our fundraising $75k in 2024

Pray for Fellows as they seek what is next for them. 

Pray for health for our families. 

Pray for resilience for when things don't go our way. 

Looking Froward

Monday: Round Table at Ronnies (it's a house not the restaurant)

Tuesday: Prayer and Alumni Happy Hour

Wednesday: Leader Lunch with Bo and Kathy Brookby

Thursday: Gal-in-tines

Friday: Classes

More Pics 

UPDATE Week of Feb 5

Bird's eye view of our beautiful city.

Celebrating Jacob C

Jacob has a summer birthday so we decided to celebrate him in January

We were low on matches

Sky is the limit for this amazingly talented, kind, and cool dude.

Leader Lunch with Christy B

One of our employers, Christy Bellis, spoke to the Fellows this week. 

Christy's Leader Lunch is one of the highlights of the year. Her story really resonates with the Fellows, and she is not afraid of giving "real talk."

She is also a successful business owner, founding TheGoTo during the pandemic. The newsletter now reaches tens of thousands of people across the triad. 

If you haven't subscribed, do so today

https://thegotowinstonsalem.com/

Class with Martha M 

Speaking of highlights. Martha Metzler brought her unique insights and style to the Fellows and the Fellows scooped it up. 

We are better because of you Martha! Thank you!

She speaks with her hands

and David S

As does David Speakman. 

Although David's secret weapon of choice is the whiteboard. 

The dude is a wizard with a dry erase marker. 

Alum Sightings

We saw Ashley Rabon (Class 2 Fellow) and Dawn Burhans 
(Family Friend) at the New Salem Counseling center on Tuesday. What a surprise and what a gift!

If you need counseling, reach out to Ashley!

Or check out New Salem

We also had a wonderful visit with Ashlyn Hodges (Year 5 Fellow) She is half way through med school and we are hoping to get her back for residency. Come on Wake! Don't make a mistake!

No Limits

Friday night, several Fellows headed to the Biotech Center for the No Limits Dance Party.

What a hoot!

We had so much fun with our friends old and new.

Fellows Fun

The Fellows continue to find fun things to do around town

Recruiting

I met a wonderful young woman this week who I hope will become a Fellow one day. She is part way through school and is currently working at Habitat for Humanity.

We had a great interview with a potential Fellow last Monday and have another few interviews this week. 

Keep praying!

And keep helping us recruit!

Here is a link to the application. 

https://www.wsfellows.com/take-action

Giving

If you want to put a check in the mail

Write checks to Winston-Salem Fellows

and mail to 

PO Box 20514

WSNC 27120

or if you want to give online

go to https://www.wsfellows.com/give

consider giving monthly, that's what I do. It's super easy.

Looking Forward

this week.

Monday - Round Table with Barry and Joyce Swayne

Tuesday - Prayer

Wednesday - Leader Lunch and Service at the Bethesda Center

Thursday - Interviews

Friday - Classes and Forum on Faith and Culture

https://www.faithandculturewsnc.org/2024-forum

come!

Saturday - Forum on Faith and Culture

Sunday - Church and Super Bowl

Prayer Matters

Pray for Fellows as they make moves concerning their futures

Pray for recruiting. 12 Fellows. 6 guys. 6 gals. for next year

Pray for finances. That the Lord will provide everything we need and more

Pray for board recruitment that we bring on the folks God is calling

More Pictures

Thanks all! Keep sharing the story and spreading the love! 

UPDATE Week of Jan 29

A truly fun week to be a Fellow

Serving at Samaritans

On Wednesday, we spent the afternoon with the guests at Samaritan Ministries. 

Jan Kelly and one of the volunteers shared their stories.

Afterward, we split up into two groups. One group set up the computer lab which has been out of service since Covid began.

The second group did a re-org of their storage areas. 

A good time was had by all (see pics In the More Photos for proof)

Church Life

Church is a big part of the Fellows year. On Sunday, Dharma visited Reynolda Community Church with Ian and Gracie

Across town, Noah helped lead worship at River Oaks

Class Life

We have had an incredible time with our two professors this January. Martha Metzler and David Speakman seriously rock.

Crossnore Life

The Fellows discovered 4-Square at Crossnore

We also have been enjoying this rug recently donated to the house. Thanks Reena!!!

Brunch Time

The gals had a little gals brunch. The guys did not.

Recruiting

Keep up those prayers! We are in process with three Fellows currently and we are talking seriously to three more! So your prayers are working. Don't stop!!!!

If you know of somebody who would be a great Fellows, please send them to our website wsfellows.com to learn more or simply reach out to Hef or Ned. 

You can also email winstonsalemfellows@gmail.com

Giving

Thank you to all our donors. You should be receiving giving statements electronically and/or in the mail if you haven't already received them. 

If you have any issues, please reach out to Hef or Ned or email winstonsalemfellows@gmail.com

If you are ready to give today, go to

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

Thank you!!!!

Looking Forward

Monday: round table

Tuesday: prayer and board meeting

Wednesday: leader lunch with Christy Bellis and Bible Study

Thursday: work

Friday: Class with Martha and David and possible dance party

Prayer Matters

- more Fellows. 12 total. 6 guys. 6 gals.

- finances. we need about 40k more to meet our budget goals for the year

- future. Our Fellows are in the thick of figuring out their future plans

- mental health. winter depression is real for so many people

More Photos

Thanks all. Keep sharing the story and spreading the love!

UPDATE Week of January 22

Soooo Good To Be Together

this update is FULL of goodies...the highlight for sure was the Testimony Advance. It was such a gift to get away and give each other space to share and listen to our stories. 

LEADER LUNCHES!!

Tiffany Thompson. ex CIA. current Rock Star. Does she have a story to tell????

You need to learn more about her consulting work called Artistic Leadership. 

http://tiffanythompsonmusic.com/

David Barksdale. Community Banker. Promoter of Culture. BBQ Enthusiast.

David Barksdale brought the heat (no surprise for those of you who know him). My favorite part of the way he tells his story is the way he talks about the mentors in his life who have lifted him up. 

David is a lifter in my life. And for that I am grateful. 

CLASSES RESUME

We came out swinging with two heavy hitters. Martha Metzler knocked out socks off with her message on mental health. Then, David Speakman gave us an overview of the entire Bible in just a shade under an hour. 

ALUMNI SIGHTINGS

Owen Wood and Joanna Lyall (board alum)

Callie and Meg

Jazmine Johnson

Alumni Happy Hour, with a drop in from Board Member Justin Bailey

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT

Tori Ellingson!!! She found love on...you guessed it...the ultimate frisbee field. And we couldn't be more excited for her! Congratulations, friend!

RUNNING FOR HOPE

Justin Bailey (board member) picked the coldest day of the year to celebrate his birthday and raise support for H.O.P.E.W.S. (Help our people eat). He runs his age every year. This year, he convinced Ned to run with him. 

The good news was Ned thought Justin was turning 47 and was wrong.

The bad news was Justin turned 46!

Brutal!

What we do for love, am I right?

Congratulations Justin on an outstanding event.

TOAST

We christened our new hang out in Old Salem. 

Lot 63 should be open to the public soon!

TESTIMONY ADVANCE

The best news is that the Fellows had an amazing weekend at the beach.

One at a time over the course of four days, the Fellows each get a chance to share the long version of their stories. What a gift! 

It became a tradition at the end to dog pile the speaker.

Dog Piles

Polar Plunges

We could off on Saturday with a Polar Plunge.

Noah highly recommends.

Star Tipping

We had some night fun on the beach, star tipping and collecting treasures.

Beach Fun

We played during the day as well. 

Ian became a mermaid

Lots of Love

Some of the best times were meal times.

RECRUITMENT

Kudos to Noah! 

Her recruited us a dandy!

Kalyn Dixon hails from the midwest but went to Ole Miss for undergrad. We can't wait to welcome her and for you all to meet her!

If you know of someone who would be a great Fellow, please contact us at winstonsalemfellows@gmail.com

GIVING

Haley is screaming the Fellows praises!

Support her by giving to the Fellows Program!

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

We need it!

LOOKING FORWARD

This week we have Round Table at Miranda's. Exec Meeting and Prayer on Tuesday. Service and Leader Lunch at Samaritan Ministries. And Class on Fridays! 

It's going to be another good one!

PRAYER MATTERS

Pray for the Fellows as we begin the process of looking at "What's Next"

Pray for recruiting. We are behind where we usually are at this time. 

Pray for our fundraising. 

Pray for one of our Fellows who will be adding a second job to supplement income. 

MORE PHOTOS

Thanks all!

Keep sharing the story and spreading the love!

UPDATE Week of January 8

We are back for more in 2024!

Happy Birthday Will!

We have been celebrating Will for about a week now. He deserves it! What a gift this guy is to the world!

He blew his candle out from distance!

Last Leader Lunch of 23

Here is a throwback picture from 2023. Our last Leader Lunch with Fellows Alums: Molly Todd, Caroline Filston, Wyatt Hill, and Christian McConnon. Good times!

Christmas Break

The Fellows had a great time over the holidays. But they sure did miss each other, as evidenced by the Facetime photos. Plus! they all came back to celebrate New Years together!

Visitors

Noah brought three friends from Ole Miss to join the fun

And Gracie had a friend for the weekend too!

Bowling Night

A heated tournament from what I hear.

It came down to one final throw? roll? toss? bowl? from Jacob Gauthier.

Weekend Shenanigans

Saturday was a perfect day from a warm drink and time with friends. 

Recruiting

Wouldn't you want to be around this table?

You can! Apply to the Fellows Program today!

https://www.wsfellows.com/take-action

Giving

Offer a swing of support to the Fellows Program!

We need it! All individual donations go directly to programming. 

Here is the link.

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

Thank you!

Looking Forward

Monday: staff meeting, interviews, round table

Tuesday: prayer

Wednesday: Leader Lunch with ex CIA current Rock Star Tiffany Thompson

Thursday-Monday: TESTIMONY ADVANCE

Prayer Matters

We are relaunching an old tradition by adding prayer requests on to the update. 

- Please pray for recruiting and recruits (we are behind where we usually are)

- Pray for favor with a potential supplementary job for one of our Fellows

- Pray for our Testimony Advance, that our Fellows would be able to share openly and that we would all feel the embrace of the Father. 

More Photos

Thanks all! Keep sharing the story and spreading the love. 

 

UPDATE 2023 Year in Review

 

What a year it has been for the Fellows Program. 

In January, we spent a long weekend sharing our stories and growing close to one another. 

In February, we traveled south of the equator and spent a week on mission in Ecuador. 

In March, Frank and Ann introduced us to Lego Man

In April, the Fellows got a front row seat to the night of stories at the Forum in Faith and Culture. 

In May, one final Advance and a Graduation.

In June, we had a Fellows wedding and a white coat ceremony.

In July, we sent out two of our all time greats. 

In August, a new class of Fellows arrived!

In September, we had two great professional development days at the Winston-Salem Foundation.

In October, we headed to the mountains for our Fall Advance. 

In November, it was up to Washington, DC for the National Conference.

In December, it was Christmas pajamas and end of the year celebrations.

And so much more...

What a wonderful year it has been. Thank you for helping to make it possible. 

If you are interested in making a year end gift to help 2024 be even better, click the secure link below to give online. 

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

Or send checks to 

Winston-Salem Fellows

PO Box 20514

WSNC 27120

THANKS!

Here's to an exciting 2024!

UPDATE Week of December 18

A Merry Christmas Holiday Season To You All

Christmas Party, Fellows Style

What a week!

It all started with a round Table Christmas Party at the Mabry's home. 

As per tradition, Hef leads us in a series of reindeer games which cannot be explained only experienced. 

Yes, that's a lobster

A Special Leader Lunch

As the heading reads, we had a special Leader Lunch. To end the year, we invited four alums to speak to the Fellows. It's the first time we ever had former Fellows speak as Leader Lunch speakers. 

It will not be our last!

Thank you Wyatt Hill, Molly Todd, Caroline Filston, and Christian McConnon!

Bible Study

We had our final Bible study of the year indoors as it was a bit nippy outside.

Class

We ended our course on Racial Reconciliation and Beloved Community with a little yarn experience. 

Room Makeover

Reena Fernando has blessed the Fellows with a beautiful room makeover. 

Her small group came on Wednesday to put on the final touches. We can't thank you enough!!!

Christmas for the City

Words cannot describe the blessing Christmas for the City is. This year, the Fellows served throughout the building. An added treat was witnessing Fellows alums take leadership roles as well. 

Family Friend

Ian visited his Family Friends one last time before the break...

Special Visitors

What a treat to have Reese and Julia (year one Fellows) swing through town on their way to a wedding!

Life Skills

The Fellows had a little life skills lesson this week. Marley Cait got to put in new spark plugs in her car!

Recruiting

We are awaiting to hear back from a few folks who are weighing the decision to become Fellows here next year. Please pray for yesses! And pray for more applications!!!

The holidays is a time when lots of college students are back home. We would be happy to talk with them over the break. Please put us in contact (336) 413-4918

Giving

The Fellows would really appreciate a year end gift!

Please send checks to PO Box 20514 WSNCE 27120

or give online here:

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

Love Feast

The week began with a Love Feast at Wake Forest and the Fellows Love Feast on Friday

Look Ahead

Had the chance to get a sneak peak of the new Kalaideum this week. It's coming!!!

We may be signing off on Updates for the next few weeks. See the millions of photos below to tide you over.

More Pics

keep sharing the story and spreading the love! 

WS Fellows 2023 Annual Report

JOIN US!!!

The Winston-Salem Fellows runs on community

So give today!

GIVE NOW

Volunteer or Join our Prayer Team

by emailing winstonsalemfellows@gmail.com

UPDATE Week of December 11

Some merry men right there

Round Table at the Bells

The Bells house was full of song and the smell of Mongolian barbeque!

We celebrated Gracie's birthday!

Thank you Dudley and Julie for opening your home to us!

Leader Lunch at the Budd Group

Yasser (not pictured), Brad, and Owen (both pictured) did a fantastic job talking about work, faith, and how the two have shaped them. 

Thank you Budd Group for an amazing day!

Work

Thank you also to the Budd Group for employing Fellows!

Jacob taking a break with friends while at work.

Palmer shows off his cubicle

Church

Church is in full Christmas swing. Marley Cait played music for the kids chorus. Shout out to Hugh!

Ian and Gracie are ready to rock at Reynolda Kids!

Reena to the Rescue

Reena Fernando, our teacher the last several weeks, surprised us with a classroom makeover!!!

WHAT A GIFT!

Xmas Party 1

The Fellows through a festive Christmas party for each other Friday night. There was a Secret Santa, marshmallows roasting on an open fire, Pictionary, and a Christmas movie!

Xmas Party 2

Saturday night, the Fellows Alumni Committee through a Christmas Party for Fellows young and old!

A Christmas sangria and buffalo chicken dip were on the menu! Yum!

Recruiting

Palmer invites you to become one of next year's Winston-Salem Fellows. 

Learn more by going to wsfellows.com

Or apply by going to wsfellows.com/take-action

Giving

Santa is a big supporter of the Fellows. To stay off his naughty list, he recommends you support it too!

Send a check to 

Winston-Salem Fellows

PO Box 20514

WSNC 27120

or give on line at 

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

Looking Forward

Steve Lineberger is making his way to the manger. 

Monday: Fellows Christmas Party #3

Tuesday: Prayer

Wednesday: Leader Lunch Panel

Thursday: TFI Directors Call

Friday: Class and Love Feast

Saturday: Christmas for the City!

More Photos

Keep sharing the story and spreading the love!!!

 

UPDATE Week of December 4

 

The Fellows proved this week they will pull out all the stops to celebrate one of their own!

Including a road trip to Greenville, SC to surprise Gracie at her home!

CHRISTMAS ELVES AT WORK

On Monday, the Fellows snuck down to Old Salem to hang the garlands around Salem Square.

The weather was cold. 

But the spirits were bright.

Thanks Wachovia Historical Society for inviting us to serve!

LEADER LUNCH WITH JAY HELVEY

As expected, Jay Helvey did a fantastic job sharing with the Fellows on Wednesday. 

Thanks all for a great afternoon. 

DECORATING THE FELLOWS HOUSE

On Monday, the Fellows House transformed into a Christmas Castle

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

CLASS

Reena continued her class on racial reconciliation on Friday. She does an incredible job at facilitation. What a gift to the program...and this city!

SURPRISE GRACIE

Friday afternoon, the Fellows traveled south of the border to surprise Gracie for her birthday! Gracie's parents were in on it!

soooo fun

CHURCH

On Sunday, the Fellows lit the Advent Candle at church.

ALUMS AROUND TOWN

Saturday, Fellows Alums gathered in South Winston for some caroling. 

Trent and his wife Jess participated in the Moravian Christmas Market in Old Salem

Owen and Michelle added some instrumentation to the celebration.

RECRUITING

We are in recruiting season!

Ian would like to tell you that there is a lot to gain from becoming a Winston-Salem Fellow. Seriously, we will connect you to him and he will tell you!

Reach out to winstonsalemfellows@gmail.com

Or simply apply online 

at https://www.wsfellows.com/take-action

GIVING

Like a fountain of life, the Fellows continues to flow.

But we need your support. 

Please donate today by giving online at 

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

or mail checks to

Winston-Salem Fellows

PO BOX 20514

WSNC 27120

A LOOK AHEAD

Monday: Round Table at the Bells

Wednesday: Prayer, Leader Lunch with the Budd Group, and Bible Study

Friday: Class and Christmas Party 1

Saturday: Christmas Party 2!

MORE PICS

Thanks all! Keep sharing the story and spreading the love!

UPDATE Week of November 27

Hey all you connected to the Fellows - we are thankful for you!

Friendsgiving

The last Round Table before Thanksgiving has become our traditional evening to feast around the table together. 

We call it Friendsgiving.

This year's group really went all out!

Thankful Hands

The Fellows pulled out the construction paper and made turkey hands!

Gracie Paints Her Walls

Gracie has been planning to repaint her room all semester. And guess what, she did it! She's on her way at least!

Taking out the paint crew for ice cream - always smart. 

Thanksgivings Around the Country

This year we have no hometown Fellows. So we all spread out around the country for Thanksgiving time. Most went home, while others visited friends...and each other!

Noah Makes Soap

Noah made soap. 

It's about time that guy cleaned up! Ha!

Jacob's Farm

Jacob returned to the family homestead and hosted Haley for one night as well as drove her back to Winston (as well as his director! Thanks Jacob!)

Haley Finds Her Roots

Haley found some long lost relatives as well as discovered the joys of Philly Cheeseteaks

Recruiting

Gracie would like to encourage all recent graduates or about to graduate students to consider a Fellows Program. 

Spaces are filling up - so get in your application today!

https://www.wsfellows.com/take-action

Click on the link above to apply!

Giving

A throwback picture to remind you that we need your support!

We are hoping to raise about $50k before the end of the year. Would you please be part of getting us there?

Here is the link to give:

https://www.wsfellows.com/give

It's easy and secure!

You can also send us a check to 

Winston-Salem Fellows

PO Box 20514

Winston-Salem, NC 27120

Looking Forward

Monday: Round Table and Hanging the Garlands in Old Salem

Tuesday: Prayer

Wednesday: Leader Lunch with Jay Helvey and Bible Study

Thursday: Recruiting at WSSU

Friday: Classes

Saturday: Mistletoe Run and Old Salem Christmas Market

Sunday: Church

More Photos 

Thanks all! Please share the story and spread the love!

UPDATE Week of Nov 19

 

Turkey Day is upon us

SURPRISE at ROUND TABLE

Round Table at the Johnsons was a blast. The big surprise was the surprise we gave Jacob for his unBirthday!

We also had a special guest, Seth, who we hope to be seeing more of next year...!

LEADER LUNCH was OUR PLEASURE

Laura Tassan is the operator of the Thruway Chikfila

She is also a certified Life Coach and loves young people

Needless to say she brought the heat. and the chicken...

COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS

The week was full of community activity. The Community Blood Drive at the Fairgrounds

The Bethesda Center breakfast at Bridger Field House

Leadership Winston-Salem Community Conversation at Forsyth Tech

And Gary Chapman at the Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber Meeting

TURKEY PROCESSING

Week two of Turkey Processing sure was something

Great to see Miranda!

FLANNEL FORMAL

River Oaks hosted a Flannel Formal on Saturday night. Ned had the chance to pull out one of his odd skill sets and did the call! Ha!

A truly great night. Speaking of bringing the heat - Rony - HE brought the heat

CHURCH SPOTLIGHT. 

Will and Marley Cate were highlight in the church newsletter this week!

RECRUITING

We are setting the table for the Fellows!

We would love to talk to you about being a Fellow next year - yes YOU! 

If you are in your early twenties...

Click Here to learn more

GIVING

The Fellows really need your support. 

So would you reach out your hand to us!

GIVE HERE

LOOKING FORWARD

monday...friendsgiving

tuesday...prayer

thursday-sunday...thanksgiving break

MORE PHOTOS