POWERGRAMS

8 APSO summer outings for at-risk children months ago, Josh Farmer, the development officer, reached out to Mobile APSO for help in providing quality experiences for its residents. "Josh asked whether we could take the kids to Mobile BayBears games this year, like we've done in the past," said Melanie Christopher, Customer Service supervisor in the Mobile Division Office and a longtime APSO member. Mobile APSO President Nelson Delaporte, who is Mobile Division Customer Service manager, and her husband, Chris, hosted several boys from ABCH at the BayBears season opener. Christopher, her father, Tommy, a Field Service representative, and Vivian Ballard, a Customer Service representative, welcomed eight girls from ABCH to the BayBears- Chattanooga Lookouts game. Jewell brought his 4-year-old daughter, Acie. "The girls had a really great time," said Jewell, who co-parents the 9- to 16-year-old residents. "Only a couple of the girls had ever been to a BayBears game. We were right next to the away team's dugout, so when a player was on deck to bat, the kids would say hi." When balls went into foul territory, a bat boy often handed one of the stray baseballs to the girls. "It was a blast," Melanie Christopher said. "Some of the players even gave the kids a few high fives." The girls enjoyed their fill of hamburgers, hot dogs, coleslaw, chips, dill pickles and cookies during the game. A few girls ran in the Teddy Bear chase, trying to catch the BayBears' mascot as it ran into the outfield. After the game, Chattanooga Lookouts player Virgil Vasquez autographed their baseballs. "The girls' night was truly made," Christopher said. Jewell said it was a lot of fun to see the girls having a good time. "Making sure they feel safe and that they feel loved makes such a big difference at this young age," Jewell said. "I'm very thankful that we had the chance to go and experience the game. It was fantastic. We're making a difference in children's lives by giving love." Serving reaps big rewards The opportunity to serve means the world to Christopher. "Volunteering is my passion," she said. Her parents passed on their legacy of giving to her and her sister, Ashley Christopher Kyser, who is a Mobile APSO member. At 14, Melanie Christopher volunteered as a candy striper at Providence Hospital in Mobile. "These kids at the children's home are so precious," she said. "The kids are in unfortunate situations, so any time we can do something for them, I want to be there." Indeed, helping ABCH is a Christopher family affair. Melanie's mother, Anee Christopher, an administrative assistant for Mobile Division Appliance Sales, and Tommy are planning a future fishing trip for the children at their pond. This summer, Tommy Christopher restocked the family pond, adding 300 bream and 100 bass to provide kids a good day of fishing. Situated on 12 acres, the Christopher's home allows children to play safely outdoors. "By spring, the bream should be 8- to 10-inches long, and the bass should be about 1 and a-half pounds," he said. "I built the pond just for children to come and fish. "We're fortunate to have the chance to do it," he added. "The kids love it. Thank goodness there are organizations like APSO and the Alabama Baptist Children's Home. That's what it's all about." by Donna Cope Murrill talks with children in park.

• Cover