Mary Holden (left) directs a game of ball for two teams and eight 4-H Club members assist with a Bingo game (right photo) at Harper’s Personal Care Home. Washington Area Faith in Action (WAFIA) will offer a communitywide spaghetti supper on Friday, September 17, from 5-7 p.m. in Wesley Hall of the First United Methodist Church. Tickets are available at most churches and at the Wilkes County Extension Service office. Those attending may eat in or carry out for $5 per plate. Funds will help support the 4-H Club and its exercise program for senior citizens.

Faith in Action is known for purchasing and installing emergency tools for homebound citizens and also for promoting exercise and mobility in nursing homes.

A couple of years ago, WAFIA developed an exercise program for seniors at Harper’s Personal Care Home. Once successful, with the help of weights, balls, and a “parachute,” the program was also taken on at Washington Manor by Reba Brown. Recently, it was introduced at Echols Personal Care Home in Rayle as well.

“We care for our seniors by reaching out with energy, interest, and fun,” said Rev. Gale Siebert, pastor of First United Methodist Church. “It’s so easy to forget our seniors because we are too easily satisfied with supplying basics such as safe housing and food. We forget these are people with personalities and needs for fellowship and encouragement like us all.”

Once residents get into the action of the program, their stability, flexibility, breathing capacity, and endurance are all increased. Social factors like competition and conversation are also incorporated.

“We must keep these programs going,” said Joe Harris, WAFIA president. “They can make for a happier, healthier, and more productive life under difficult conditions. Join the crowd at First Methodist and contribute to a great cause.”

Although the Georgia Division of Aging Services has suffered budget cuts exceeding other state departments, WAFIA has slowly expanded its programming for the homebound over the years.

Even before WAFIA was incorporated, it supported the 4-H program for the homebound under the leadership of Pam Hopkins and Susan Branan. They had a small group called the “Sunshine Brigade” and were quite active with the senior citizens in the area. Now, Audra Armour of the Wilkes County Extension Service has a group of more than eight 4-H Club members who