Dawson Ministry Guide Online
God has called every Christian to serve. Each of us must find what He is calling us to do. The Dawson Ministry Guide contains information to help members of Dawson to be found faithful by finding a place of service both within the walls of Dawson and beyond our walls. Please study the Guide to find ministries that may fit your gifts and passion. You may find out more or volunteer to serve by contacting the person listed for each ministry.
Ministry Guide Contents
Adult Ministry
College Ministry
Student Ministry Grades 9-12
Middle School Ministry Grades 5-8
Children’s Ministry Grades 1-4
Preschool Ministry
Music and Worship
Pastoral Care
Spiritual Formation
Evangelism and Missions
Hispanic Ministry
Local Community Ministries
United States Mission Projects
International Mission Projects
Health and Wellness
Recreation
Greeters/Ushers
Other Ministries: Office volunteers, phone volunteers, flower ministry,
food service, DawsonLife, Library, decorations, Market Place,
homebound visitors, transportation
W=WITHIN—the ministry takes place within the walls of Dawson.
B=BEYOND—the ministry takes place outside the walls of Dawson—in the community, or in another community, state, or country. The ministry may or may not be sponsored by Dawson.
Adult Ministry
W Sunday School Leaders
Provide leadership for married and single adult Sunday School in order for Sunday School classes to effectively reach people for Christ through:
Teaching—prepare and present life-changing Bible study
Outreach—consistently contact visitors
Care—consistently contact class members and guests
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org
W Short-term Bible Studies
Lead short-term adult Bible studies during the week.
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org or
W Women’s Ministry
Women’s Ministry includes weekday and evening Bible studies, Moms & More (monthly meeting for stay-at-home moms in the morning and working moms in the evening), and special women’s events throughout the year. Volunteers are needed for a variety of opportunities—leading a Bible study, greeting participants, organizing, planning, and implementing special events. Volunteers may participate on an event basis or throughout the year.
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org
W Adult Special Education
Sit with special education adults during the 9:40 a.m. worship service, assist with their 11:00 a.m. Sunday School or assist with their music rehearsal (Happy Singers) at 4:45 p.m. on Sundays.
Contact: Cynthia Tillman at 822-8654 or ctillman@gmail.com
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College Ministry
W College Hosts
Meet and greet college students at various events and build relationships with them. Serve on a rotating basis.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
W Adopt A Student
Provide a family atmosphere for a student who is attending college or university far from home.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
Student Ministry — Grades 9-12
W Student Ministry Team (Sunday School Leadership)
Develop relationships with students, teach, call, and visit members and non-members. Special training and materials provided.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
W Wednesday Nights
Love and mentor the youth of our community in eXtreme: worship for Middle School students, and The Underground: worship for High School students, Wednesday at 6:15 p.m.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
W Acteens (Girls Missions, Grades 9–12)
Guide high school girls in learning about missions through various activities and hands-on experience. Groups meet Wednesday nights from 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Contact: Beth Leach at 631-1485
W B Puppet Team Leadership
Work with the teenage puppet team to assist in preparation for puppet skits. Enlist, encourage, and train teens and assist in preparation and performances.
Contact: Andrea Coleman at 621-5779(h)
W Youth Discipleship Group Leaders
Lead a small group of high school students in weekly Bible study (materials provided) and build relationships with students that will last a lifetime.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
W Youth Retreats
Lead small group Bible study (materials provided), participate in all activities, and assist with miscellaneous activities for youth in grades 7 through 12 on selected weekends.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
B Breakaway
For five days in the spring, participate in activities with youth in grades 7–12. Lead Bible studies or prayer groups or help with recreation activities.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
B World Changers
Work with and chaperone teenagers as they repair homes throughout the southeastern United States. Typically, trips are one week in duration.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
W DNow
DiscipleNow is a weekend Bible study and worship time held in church members’ home. Serve as a host home by providing a home for 10 to 12 students Friday evening through Sunday morning, or prepare food for one meal with a team of 2 to 3 people for Saturday breakfast or lunch for approximately 15 people, or assist with miscellaneous organizational tasks.
Contact: Jody Gambrell at 871-7324 or jody.gambrell@dawsonchurch.org
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Middle School Ministry — Grades 5-8
W Sunday School Leaders
Lead preteens and middle school students in grades 5 through 8 in weekly Bible study and/or Bible activities using age-appropriate curriculum. Training, literature and supplies are provided. Your investment in the lives of students will develop relationships and encourage them as they travel their faith journey.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Preteen Ministry
J12 - Dawson’s Preteen Ministry for grades 5 and 6 welcomes those who are interested in serving on Sunday mornings, with special events, or with behind-the-scene/organizational efforts.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Wednesday Nights
Love and mentor the youth of our community in eXtreme: worship for Middle School students, Wednesday at 6:15 p.m.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Acteens (Girls Missions, Grades 7–8)
Guide middle school girls in learning about missions through various activities and hands-on experience. Groups meet Wednesday nights from 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
Contact: Beth Leach at 631-1485
W Youth Discipleship Group Leaders
Lead a small group of middle school students in weekly Bible study (materials provided) and build relationships that will last a lifetime.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Youth Retreats
Lead small group Bible study (materials provided), participate in all activities, and assist with miscellaneous activities for middle school students on selected weekends.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Breakaway
For five days in the spring, participate in activities with middle school students. Lead Bible studies or prayer groups or help with recreation activities.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
B Student Life Camp
Chaperone and fellowship with Middle School students (grades 6-8) for one week at this life-changing youth camp.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W DNow
DiscipleNow is a weekend Bible study and worship time held in church members’ home. Serve as a host home by providing a home for 10 to 12 students Friday evening through Sunday morning, or prepare food for one meal with a team of 2 to 3 people for Saturday breakfast or lunch for approximately 15 people, or assist with miscellaneous organizational tasks.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Girls in Action
Lead and teach missions to girls in grades five and six. Classes meet from August through April on Wednesdays from 6:40 p.m.–7:15 p.m.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Boys’ Missions
Guide boys, grades five and six, in learning ways they can serve God by serving others. Participate in mission action opportunities on Wednesday nights, 6:40 p.m.–7:15 p.m. during the school year.
Contact: Terry Knight at 978-9388 or
Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
W Preteen KidLife Week Workers
Work with preteens (grades 5-6). Leadership consists of teaching a small group, assisting with special snacks, or leading a workshop of choice.
Contact: Kristen Torres at 871-7324 or kristen.torres@dawsonchurch.org
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Children’s Ministry — Grades 1-4
W Sunday School Leaders
Lead children in grades 1 through 4 in weekly Bible study and/or Bible activities using age-appropriate curriculum. Training, literature and supplies are provided. Your investment in the lives of children will develop relationships and encourage them as they travel their faith journey.
Contact: Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org
W Girls in Action
Lead and teach missions to girls in grades one through four. Classes meet from August through April on Wednesdays from 6:40 p.m.–7:15 p.m.
Contact: Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org
W Boys’ Missions
Guide boys, grades one through four, in learning ways they can serve God by serving others. Participate in mission action opportunities on Wednesday nights, 6:40 p.m.–7:15 p.m. during the school year.
Contact: Terry Knight at 978-9388 or
Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org
W Children’s KidLife Week Workers
Lead children (grades 1-4) in a small group Bible study, or assist in games, activities, and crafts.
Contact: Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org
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Preschool Ministry
W Sunday School Leaders
Teach Bible truths and concepts to preschool children ages birth through kindergarten on Sunday mornings. Training and continued support is given to teachers to help them grow in their teaching experience.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org
W Excel Hour
Excel Hour is the hour after Sunday School. Teach, interact with, and play with preschool children ages birth through kindergarten who do not yet attend worship services. Serve only six times a year.
Contact: Donna Allan at 871-7324 or donna.allan@dawsonchurch.org
W Cradle Care Ministry Team
Ministry team members serve as caregivers to expectant parents. Caregivers relay information to the church when the baby is born. They serve to develop relationships with parents, help introduce first time parents to the preschool ministry, and assist with the families’ dedication.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org
W Hearts and Hands Ministry
Hearts and Hands is a volunteer-led ministry to provide assistance for children with special needs. Sign-up to be a Sunday School or Wednesday night buddy for a preschool or school-age child. Provide one-on-one care on a rotating basis in classroom settings for children with special needs.
Contact: Elizabeth Gwaltney at Elizabeth@gwaltney.org or
Ginny Glass at 871-7324 or ginny.glass@dawsonchurch.org
W Moms and More Childcare
Provide care for preschoolers during Moms and More on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Contact: Donna Allan at 871-7324 or donna.allan@dawsonchurch.org
W Preschool Computer Check-in Team
Volunteers who are comfortable using computers and who have a helpful and encouraging spirit, are needed to assist parents as they use the check-in scan cards for Sunday School. Team members rotate responsibilities on Sunday mornings, between 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.
Contact: Keith Vinson at 871-7324 or keith.vinson@dawsonchurch.org
W Preschool Quest: Missions
Volunteers teach preschoolers (age 2½– kindergarten) about music and missions with Bible-based, age-appropriate lessons and activities to instill a love for worshipping God and serving
others in Jesus’ name.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org
W Preschool KidLife Week Workers
Lead preschoolers (ages birth to six) as they participate in Bible study, crafts, recreation, special events, and praise times.
Contact: Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org
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Music and Worship
W Worship in the Chapel
Lead in worship in the Chapel Sundays at 8:30 a.m. or 9:40 a.m. by playing an instrument or singing.
Contact: Jeff Hindman at 871-7324 or jeff.hindman@dawsonchurch.org
W Accompanists
Accompany on piano or organ for choirs, ensembles, or worship services.
Contact: Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org
W Sanctuary Choir
Lead in worship each week by singing in the choir. Rehearse on Wednesday nights and sing in a worship service on Sundays at 9:40 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. Present three special musical programs during the year.
Contact: Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org
W Orchestra
Play an instrument in the orchestra for morning worship services (9:40 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.) twice a month, September through May.
Contact: Pat Morrow at 995-6975 or pmorrow@gmail.com
W Handbells—Adult
Ring with an advanced handbell choir. Previous experience is required and note reading skill is essential.
Contact: David Vaughan at 413-4225 or djjevaughan@att.net
W Preschool and Children’s Choirs
Direct, accompany, or assist with preschool and children’s choir rehearsals for 1st through 6th graders. Volunteers are not required to be trained musicians.
Contact: Tracy Hanrahan at 871-7324 or tracy.hanrahan@dawsonchurch.org
W Senior Adult Choir Members
Rehearse weekly and perform monthly in a nursing home, senior adult event, or worship service.
Contact: Dianne Norton at 871-7324 or dianne.norton@dawsonchurch.org
W Music Librarians
Assist with sorting, cataloging, and filing music for the music ministry.
Contact: Martha Spurling at 871-7324 or martha.spurling@dawsonchurch.org
W Drama
Serve as performer, script writer, lighting technician, set builder, costume seamstress, director, property master, or make-up artist for various dramatic techniques such as monologues, plays, short sketches, dance, mime, reader’s theater, recitation, speech choir dictation, and pageants.
Contact: Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org
W Audio Ministry
Set up and operate audio and lighting systems for Sunday worship services at 8:30 a.m., 9:40 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 6:00 p.m., as well as special programs. Teams are scheduled on a rotating basis
Contact: Dennis Hoffman at 979-4375(h) or
Bob Hatfield at 871-7324 or bob.hatfield@dawsonchurch.org
W Television Ministry
Direct or operate television cameras for taping weekly worship services on Sunday mornings for television broadcast. Volunteers arrive at 8:00 a.m. and serve at the 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. services, as well as special programs.
Contact: B.C. Romano at 871-7324 or bc.romano@dawsonchurch.org
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Pastoral Care
W Lord’s Supper Ministry
Prepare materials and set up for the Lord’s Supper every time it is scheduled.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org
W Hospital Visitation
Visit members who are in the hospital.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org
W Care and Transportation Teams
Provide transportation to medical services or other similar services for individuals who are receiving regular medical treatment. Provide services such as shopping for those who have no family and cannot get out of their homes. Provide respite service for people who are caregivers for individuals with chronic illnesses. Volunteers serve as part of a team.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org
W Stephen Ministry
Minister to individuals going through crises or major transitions in their lives. Participants receive fifty hours of training and serve for two years with twice monthly continuing education and supervision sessions. Generally, a Stephen Minister’s volunteer service involves about ten hours a month.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org
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Spiritual Formation
W Discover Dawson Hosts/Hostesses
Discover Dawson is an informational meeting helping prospects and new members discover Dawson’s vision, ministry opportunities, staff, and facilities. Hosts/Hostesses provide help and hospitality at these meetings as well as contact prospects to attend.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org
W Journey Life Groups
Journey Life Groups provide a small setting (40 people or less) for people to learn how to live out their faith together. Groups study Scripture, engage in discussion-based learning, share meals together, receive the Lord’s Supper, serve in the community, build friendships, join in recreation, and take rests. All of the groups share the same schedule as they discuss and apply the theme and main points from the message in the 9:40 a.m. Chapel worship celebration.
Groups are designed to accommodate a variety of ages/life stages. Opportunities include: help coordinate serving opportunities in the community, lead or co-lead a group, minister with children or youth who come to a life group.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org
W New Member Assimilation Team
Help new members find their place of service. This team will interview new church members for the purpose of connecting them with various ministry areas at Dawson or in the community.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org
W Intercessory Prayer Team
Pray one hour a week at a specified time in the Intercessory Prayer Center. Volunteers receive prayer requests by way of phone or cards, pray for those persons, and write notes to those who requested the prayer.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org
B UAB Medical/Dental Fellowship
The Medical and Dental Fellowship is a partnership between Dawson and Baptist Campus Ministries. It consists of a weekly Bible Study held on Tuesdays at Noon on the UAB campus. Each week about 80 medical, dental, optometry, and other students in health related fields of study meet for lunch and a devotion. Medical professionals and others can be guest speakers to share their faith.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org
W Men’s Small Group Leader
Small group Bible studies meet to encourage and support one another on the Christian journey.
• Leader: lead teacher/facilitator for the regular small group gatherings
• Co-Leader: a leader in training, the role of the co-leader is to prepare to lead a group in the future. The co-leader facilitates gatherings in the absence of the leader.
• Host: Contact the group each week and coordinate snacks for the gatherings.
Contact: Chris Hunsberger at 871-7324 or chris.hunsberger@dawsonchurch.org
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Evangelism and Missions
B Hispanic Missions
Become involved in local Hispanic mission projects. Assist our Hispanic congregation in their efforts to identify and minister to unchurched Hispanics in the Birmingham area. Hispanic health screenings help meet physical needs. Help conduct Vacation Bible School for Hispanic children and youth during the summer.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org
W English Classes
Teach conversational English to internationals. Classes meet on Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and on Thursdays, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. from September through May. Volunteers are also needed to drive vans, serve as greeters, and serve refreshments.
Contact: Loretta Smith at 941-3197
W Decision Counselors
Assist people who make decisions during worship services. Help complete decision cards, pray with and encourage the person, and stand with them after they are introduced to the congregation. Serve at one service a month.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org
W Baptism Ministry
Coordinate the baptismal ceremony. On Sunday afternoon contact those scheduled to be baptized, meet with them prior to the baptismal service, and assist them in preparation. Serve one month out of three.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org
W Adult Mission Groups
Volunteer to help lead groups that meet monthly to support missions, pray for missionaries, and participate in mission projects. Groups include World Missions Group, Dawson South Group, and Missions-Hearted Women. New groups can be formed to meet specific needs and interests.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org
W Operation Christmas Child
Each year churches all over the world and Samaritan’s Purse deliver millions of gift-filled shoe boxes to children around the world. Volunteers will work at the church at any available time during a two-week period in November and will receive boxes and package them for shipment.
Contact: Laran Lofton at laran.lofton@dawsonchurch.org
B Medical Apartments
The Medical Apartments provide accommodations for families of hospitalized patients. Volunteers assist with cleaning and maintaining apartments, doing chores, and visiting with residents. Dawson has two ongoing ministry groups.
Contact: Manda Humber at 969-3672(h)
W Hemmed in Prayer
The Hemmed in Prayer ministry makes simple garments for needy children. Each year these clothes are delivered by Dawson mission volunteers on international mission projects. Patterns are provided to each of the volunteers. Each seamstress works at home and at their own pace during the year to make the clothes.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org.
W B Military Ministry
Volunteers provide encouragement to soldiers and logistical assistance to their families during their deployment. The ministry provides birthday, Easter and Christmas packages to servicemen and women.
Contact: Michele Smith at 521-8347 or mrsmith@babc.com
B Linn Park Ministry
Members of four local churches come together to support the Linn Park Ministry every second Friday evening of the month and prepare and serve a meal with to those in need. The evening starts at 6pm with a short devotional and prayer, and then the seated guests are served a hot meal, soft drinks, and dessert. We are occasionally able to provide movies, music, and even hot showers and laundry at a host church.
Contact: Marc Comer at lc1075@att.com
B Christmas For A Child
Provide Christmas gifts for a child with spiritual as well as physical needs. You will receive a wish list for the child. Sign up and select a child on October 24, 27 or 31 and bring your gifts by December 8.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org
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Hispanic Ministries
Dawson’s Hispanic Ministry is a community of believing Hispanics who gather together to worship God and serve others. Members of Dawson who speak some level of Spanish or desire to work with the Hispanic congregation can serve in the following ways:
W Bible Study and Discipleship
Lead Wednesday night Bible studies from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., on a rotational basis. Lead satellite Bible studies in homes in several locations around the Birmingham area on different week nights from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org
W Music
Sing, play an instrument, or direct during the Sunday morning worship at 11:00 a.m. Choir and band rehearsals are on Friday nights from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org or Christy Silvestre (Choir Director) at 243-1777
W Hispanic Vacation Bible School
Teach or help with crafts, serving refreshments, sports, driving, etc. Scheduled in July.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org or Betty Cole at 942-1198
W Interpreting
Interpret between English and Spanish during the worship services and at various events or in various situations to help diminish the language barrier.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org
W Youth
Assist with Bible study and special activities. Help with youth retreats as chaperones.
Contact: Randy Poe at 915-7775
W Childcare
Provide childcare during various functions, including Choir and band rehearsal on Friday nights from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Contact: Byron Mosquera at 795-7733 or byron.mosquera@dawsonchurch.org
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Community Ministries
B Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries
Volunteers can sponsor a child at Christmas or have a housewarming/pounding for a Family Care apartment for homeless moms with children. Learn more at http://www.alabamachild.org/donations/needs-lists.
Contact: Kay Taylor at 982-1112
B Alabama Grief Support Services
Alabama Grief Support Services serves anyone who has a loss by death. Volunteers assist in grief support groups, during the daytime or at night. Learn more at http://www.alabamagrief.org
Contact: 870-0336 or alabamagriefsupp@bellsouth.net
B American Red Cross
Red Cross volunteers provide shelter, food and health services to individuals and families who are affected by disasters. Services range from caring for hurricane evacuees to providing comfort to victims of individual home fires.
Contact: Lynn Smith at 458-8249 or lynn.smith@redcrossal.org.
B Better Basics
Better Basics provides reading intervention and enrichment programs to elementary children in Birmingham. Volunteer commitment ranges from 20 minutes twice a month to one hour per week from September through April. No experience is necessary.
Contact: Lauri Rogers at 944-2928, ext. 323 or volunteer@betterbasics.org
B Big Brothers Big Sisters
Big Brothers Big Sisters matches adult volunteers with children ages 7 to 16 for positive one-to-one relationships that contribute to brighter futures, better schools, and stronger communities for all. Volunteer mentors spend 3 to 5 hours with a child twice a month. Learn more at http://www.bbbsbhm.org.
Contact: Katy Spinks at 939-5590
B Big Oak Ranch
B Brother Bryan Mission
The Brother Bryan Mission is a Christ-centered ministry providing homeless men with safe shelter, food, and clothing for the body and ministering to their souls with counseling, Bible study and mentors who help encourage the men to rebuild their lives. Volunteers teach Bible studies, conduct worship services, serve as a one-on-one mentor, coordinate teaching programs, provide for and serve meals, and coordinate health and wellness programs. Learn more at http://www.brotherbryanmission.com.
Contact: Rev. Steve Brown, Brian Keen or John Bryan at 322-0092
B Cahaba Valley Health Care
Assist with vision and dental screenings for a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing access to quality healthcare for the underserved, primarily Hispanic, communities in Jefferson and Shelby Counties.
Contact: Edwina Taylor at 991-8771 or edwina@cahabavalleyhealthcare.org
B Camp Smile-A-Mile
Camp Smile-A-Mile provides year round programs for children with cancer. There are seven camp sessions each year as well as one day programs and activities. Volunteers staff the weeklong camps as cabin and activity staff for patients, ages 6-16.
Contact: Jennifer Amundsen at 323-8427 or Jennifer.amundsen@campsam.org
B CASA of Jefferson County
CASA volunteers are appointed by a Family Court Judge to investigate a specific case involving a child from birth to age 18. These volunteers interview the child and other significant parties in an effort to guarantee the child’s best interests. They offer an additional layer of protection to ensure that abused children are not further victimized by what is often a confusing and frightening process. CASA volunteers make sure that each child remains a priority despite the overburdened legal and social service system, and stays with each case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home. For many abused children, their CASA volunteer will be the one constant adult presence - the one adult focused solely on them. Learn more at http://www.jeffersoncasa.wordpress.com
Contact: Rene Williams Spain at 325-5019
B The Center at Central Park
The Center is located in Central Park Baptist Church and works to meet needs in the West End and Ensley communities. Tutors can work with schoolchildren, GED students, or adult literacy programs. Others work with a senior adult ministry, workforce preparedness, summer Bible schools or with the home medical equipment donation/refurbishing/loan program. More information is available on the BBA website at http://www.bbaonline.org/tcacp
Contact: Grace McGraw at The Center, 783-9170 or gracem@bbaonline.org
B Changed Lives Christian Center
Changed Live Christian Center (CLCC) offers transitional housing for men who are on their way to recover from homelessness. The mission of Changed Lives is to take human beings who are presently homeless and weave them back into the fabric of productive society. The center houses men for up to two years, offering medical and dental care, personal financial management, and teaching the residents life skills and helping them find jobs. Volunteers can prepare and serve dinner, lead a program for the residents, or furnish a Pod.
Contact: Nicole Williams at 602-2739 or nicoleclcc@gmail.com
B Cornerstone Schools of Alabama
Cornerstone Schools of Alabama is a private Christian school serving children from the inner city to provide students with the opportunity to develop into responsible and productive citizens. Volunteer opportunities include lunch mentoring, tutoring both during and after school, art club, the “seed to plate” project, sports, weekend volunteers, and one time volunteer opportunities. Learn more at http://www.csalabama.org
Contact: 591-7600
B Department of Human Resources Basic Foster Care
Foster parents serve vital roles in the efforts to keep children safe. The children usually remain in the homes of foster parents until they are returned to their own homes or placed for adoption. Day care as well as medical care is provided by the state. Training is provided.
Contact: Francene Donald at 918-5346
B Discovery Clubs of Alabama
Discovery Clubs is in 15 schools in the Birmingham area. Most clubs meet at 3:00 one day a week. Mentors commit one day a week for 1 hour for 20 weeks. Mentors can teach a song, a Bible verse, hand out snacks, teach a lesson, take roll or just hug on the children.
Contact: Sharon Ezell at 313-4655 or sharon@discoveryclubsofal.org
B The Exceptional Foundation
The Exceptional Foundation meets the social and recreational needs of mentally and/or physically challenged individuals. Volunteers assist staff with daily activities such as field trips, organized games and sports, music, and arts and crafts. Volunteer Orientation is the first and third Monday of every month at 4:00pm.
Contact Eugene Rogers at 870-0776 or volunteer@exceptionalfoundation.org
B Firehouse Shelter Soup Kitchen
Prepare and serve lunch to homeless people at the Firehouse Shelter Soup Kitchen. Serve on either the fourth Saturday, the first Wednesday or the third Tuesday of each month, from 9:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. Participants may choose from a fixed or flexible schedule or serve on a fill-in basis.
Contact: Cyndi Gammill at 823-7419(h)
B First Light
First Light helps homeless women and their children return to independent living through providing emergency shelter, teaching life skills, group therapies, referrals and permanent supportive housing. Volunteers prepare, bring and serve dinner to emergency and overflow shelter guests, stay overnight in the emergency shelter, or provide special events at the shelter. Learn more at http://www.firstlightshelter.org.
Contact: Deborah Everson at 323-4277
B Gateway Therapeutic Foster Care
Loving, nurturing therapeutic foster homes are needed for children ages 5 to 19. Gateway and Alliance are seeking persons to serve as foster parents to needy children. Foster parents can be married or single and must be at least 25 years old. Extensive training is provided.
Contact: Jennifer Lackey at 510-2722
B Jimmie Hale Mission
Jimmie Hale Mission ministers to the spiritual and physical needs of the poor and hurting in Jesus’ name. Volunteers serve or provide meals and lead chapel services for men or Bible studies for women and children.
Contact: Anthony Cooper at 323-5878
B Make Way Partners
Make Way Partners seeks to serve the most vulnerable and least protected people in the world. Their goal is to end human trafficking through prevention. They serve where women and children are at highest risk of human trafficking and modern day slavery. They also serve where little to no other help is available because it is considered either too dangerous, too expensive or too remote for most people to go. In addition to their education work in the USA, they work in Sudan, Romania and Democratic Republic of Congo. Volunteers can serve on a mission trip (more info at http://www.makewaypartners.org/mission_trips.html) or in the Character In Service program (more info at http://www.characterinservice.org)
Contact: Audrey Moore at audreym@makewaypartners.org
B Meals on Wheels
Deliver meals to people (mostly elderly with health problems) in the Homewood area.
Contact: Alma Moore at 592-0413, Ext. 4
B Ministry Center at Green Springs
Provides food, English classes, and the gospel message on a weekly basis at the former Green Springs Baptist Church.
Contact: Ray Flynn at 326-1211 or rfly432@mindspring.com
B M-POWER Literacy
Tutor an adult in basic literacy. Training is provided. The tutor and student typically meet once each week.
Contact: Beverly Sansom at 595-5959
B M-POWER Health Clinic
Volunteer doctors, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, counselors, and receptionists serve uninsured residents of Birmingham. The clinic, located in the M-POWER building, is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. and Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Contact: Betty McCulloch at 595-5959 (M-POWER Office)
B NorthStar Youth Ministries
NorthStar Youth Ministries ministers to youth and families in western Birmingham and helps urban youth find their direction in life
through high quality, holistic programs within a nurturing Christian environment. Programs include educational enrichment, summer Bible Camp, Soccer Club, Fine Arts program, tutoring, youth group and other outreach. Volunteers can serve in any of the programs but particularly in summer Bible Camp.
Contact: Paul Neville at pneville@northstaryouthministries.org
B Pathways Ministry
Visit a shelter for homeless women and children to provide a fun activity, refreshments, a devotional, and prayer time. Serve on the third Thursday of each month from 6:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Transportation is provided from the church. Volunteers are also needed to collect and deliver furniture and household items to help residents furnish their new homes.
Contact: Ruth Todd at 942-3160
B Restoration Academy in Fairfield
Restoration Academy is a private urban Christian school serving students from K5 through 12th grade, providing solid, Christ-centered foundations in education and discipleship. Volunteers can tutor or mentor the students and help with campus clean-up. Learn more at http://www.restorationacademy.org.
Contact: Ty Williams at 785-8805 or etywilliams@aol.com
B Sav-A-Life
Sav-A-Life provides emotional and spiritual support for men and women with unwanted or unplanned pregnancies. Volunteers can counsel, be mentors, provide medical services, or provide practical needs for new moms.
Contact: Lisa Hogan at lisahogan@savalife.org
B Urban Ministry
Urban Ministry is an inner-city mission located in the West End community of Birmingham. Our mission is to provide programs of Compassion and Wholeness to poor and low-income persons in the Birmingham area. Our Compassion programs are designed to meet and immediate human need. Our Wholeness programs are designed to meet long-term ongoing human needs. Volunteer opportunities include serving in our soup kitchen, leading food drives in your local church, painting houses, working with children, and working in our community garden.
Contact: Tom Duley at 781-0517 or tduley@bham.rr.com
B The Village
The Village is a 9 to 12 month reentry program that provides rescue and restoration for former prisoners, recovering addicts and the homeless, focusing on job development, life skills training, and spiritual growth. Volunteers mentor someone as they reenter society, tutor and help someone increase their personal remedial skills and earn their GED or teach a Christ-centered class each week to a group of eager-to-learn individuals.
Contact: Andy Jenkins at andrewejenkins@aol.com
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United States Mission Projects
B Birmingham; Metro Changers (Construction); April 2011
During the month of April, 2011 Dawson volunteers will join member of other congregations to renovate low income homes in Birmingham and Jefferson County. During the month fifty homes will be painted, roofed, and repaired. Many of the homes will receive handicap ramps and deck repairs. Sunday School classes and other Bible Study groups will be enlisted to conduct these projects. No previous construction experience is required.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org
B Dawson Builders; Builders for Christ; June 13-17, 2011
Dawson Builders is a team of volunteers who help build a church in the summer. The work could consist of framing, roofing, siding, installing windows, etc. Dawson works with Builders For Christ, who picks the location and coordinates the work.
Contact: Allan Ivemeyer at allan.ivemeyer@gmail.com
B Spirit of Luke Ministries
Spirit of Luke strives to meet the spiritual, physical and educational needs of people living in Alabama’s Black Belt region. Volunteer groups go on a Saturday to provide food, clothing and school supplies and to build relationships with the people.
Contact: David Bivin at dbivin@charter.net
B Winthrop, Maine; Kennebec Community Church; June 19-25, 2011
This is Dawson’s annual Family Mission Project. Volunteers will help lead an evening Vacation Bible School and conduct community outreach projects. Parents and children can participate together, however, anyone can participate. Children need to be at least grade school age to participate.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org or Brooke Gibson at 871-7324 or brooke.gibson@dawsonchurch.org
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International Mission Projects
B Honduras; Forgotten Children’s Ministry; January 15-22, 2011
This team will work with the staff of Forgotten Children’s Ministry, which works to rescue street children by providing housing, education and family environment for the boys. Plans are currently underway to provide the same services for girls. The team will also conduct a food distribution ministry and lead discipleship groups.
Contact: Terry Knight at tknight@uabmc.edu
B Southeast Asia; English as a Second Language; March 25–Apr. 2, 2011
This team will conduct English as a Second Language workshops for High School and University faculty in the world’s most populous Muslim countries. There will also be opportunities for relational ministry in rural villages. Other ministry opportunities will also be planned based on the skills of the team members.
Contact: Betty Sands, at elizabet.sands@att.net
B Haiti; Medical; March 5-12, 2011
This team will be made up of medical and non-medical volunteers. The project is a follow-up project to the 2010 team that provided medical care following the 2010 earthquake that destroyed large portions of the island nation. The team will work out of The Joy House, a Christian ministry in Gressier, Haiti. The team will do a variety of things, but medical care may focus on women and children.
Contact: Ben Hale at 871-7324 or ben.hale@dawsonchurch.org
B Ecuador; Medical and Construction; April 29-May 7, 2011
This team will work with missionary Steve Thompson in the area around the city of Tena. They will conduct a medical clinic and provide eyeglasses that will help a local church increase their evangelism and discipleship efforts.
Contact: Donna Adkisson at donnaja@bellsouth.net
B Kajo Keji, Sudan; E3 Partners (Medical); May 8-19, 2011
This team is a follow-up to the 2010 project, which conducted medical clinics and trained Sudanese village community health workers. These workers returned to their villages in an effort to improve living conditions through community health improvements. The 2011 project will build on the success of the 2010 project and also conduct medical clinics.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
B Honduras; Forgotten Children’s Ministry; May 21-28, 2011
This team will work with the staff of Forgotten Children’s Ministry, which works to rescue street children by providing housing, education and family environment for the boys. Plans are currently underway to provide the same services for girls. The team will also conduct a food distribution ministry and lead discipleship groups.
Contact: Steve McPheeters at smcpheeters@maynardcooper.com
B Brazil; Voo Livre Ministries; May 21-28, 2011
This team will teach life skill classes that include sewing, knitting, carpentry and computers, as well as lead a Vacation Bible school. Volunteers will teach these and any other subject that would assist the people in this very poor community learn skills that enable them to improve the quality of their lives. Team size is limited to 12.
Contact: Bobby Keith at popsrrk@bellsouth.net
B Ecuador; Students — Disciple Now; May 21–30, 2011
This team of Dawson university students will work with Steve and Carol Thompson to conduct a Disciple Now weekend for several hundred Ecuadorian youth at Camp Chacauco in central Ecuador.
Contact team leader, Boyd Kaiser at bkaiser@martinretail.com
B Peru; E3 Partners; July 16–24, 2011
Both medically-trained and non-medically trained volunteers will travel to Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city, to share God’s love and provide medical assistance to the poor and under-served on the periphery of the city. Ministries will include medical and dental consultation, free medications and eyeglasses, a children’s Bible school, and evangelism. Our goal will be to start one or more new churches.
Contact Bill Rogers at wrogers@uab.edu
B Swaziland; Children’s Hope Chest; July 23-Aug. 2, 2011
Dawson members currently sponsor over thirty orphan children at a care point in Swaziland. This team will minister to these and other children by providing Vacation Bible School type activities as well as light construction projects. The goal is to eventually provide a secure food distribution center, a school and a source of clean water for the community.
Contact: Todd Harrington at 871-7324 or todd.harrington@dawsonchurch.org
B Ukraine; LifeSong for Orphans; Dates TBD
This team will work with orphans that live in state operated orphanages in Ukraine. Dawson has contributed to the purchase and construction of a Christian camp where the orphans can go on weekends and summer camps. Dawson’s team will lead an outdoor sports and recreation camp.
Contact: Chris Hunsberger at 871-7324 or chris.hunsberger@dawsonchurch.org
B Akot, Sudan; Baptist Training Center; Dates TBD
This team will support the work at the Baptist Training Center, a school that Dawson volunteers built last year. Specific plans are currently being developed for the project. The team will also assist Mustard Seed International in transitioning their responsibilities at the Akot Medical Mission.
Contact: Don Steen at 871-7324 or don.steen@dawsonchurch.org
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Health and Wellness
W Blood Pressure Team
This team includes medical personnel who check blood pressure on Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings. Volunteers are requested to serve once per month.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
W First Aid Team
This team includes medical personnel who respond to emergencies on Sunday mornings and during special events at the church. Volunteers are requested to serve once a month.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
W Disaster Relief Shelter
Serve on the Dawson Disaster Relief Shelter Team. Responsibilities include: serving food, setting up cots,
distributing blankets and hygiene kits, and registration of occupants.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
W Pet Shelter
When our disaster relief shelter is activated, the pet shelter will be available so that those who seek refuge from storms do not have to leave their pets behind. Volunteers help care for pets.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
W CPR and First Aid Training
Volunteers are needed who are certified to teach CPR classes. They would assist twice a year with a certification course on Dawson’s campus.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
W Hospitality Team for Health and Wellness Ministry Events
This team would serve as host/hostess during special events sponsored by the ministry. This could include a variety of opportunities—from serving food at a cooking class to welcoming guests at a health program to assisting at the canteen during a blood drive. Every age is welcome to participate.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
W Medical Equipment Project
Volunteers inventory donated medical equipment. This medical equipment is stored on campus and is checked out by individuals as needed.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
W Speaker’s Bureau
Share your expertise by teaching a health class taught on Dawson’s Campus.
Contact: Debbie Moss at 871-7324 or debbie.moss@dawsonchurch.org
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Recreation
W Arts and Crafts Instructor
Teach or assist in teaching a craft or hobby for children or adults.
Contact: Vivian Howard at 943-0742
W Community Basketball
Provide support for community basketball one night each week. Present a devotional on occasion.
Contact: Chris Hunsberger at 879-1758 or chris.hunsberger@dawsonchurch.org
or Eric Hill at 879-1758 or eric.hill@dawsonchurch.org
W Children/Youth Basketball Coach
Coach a boys or girls basketball team during three to four month season, November through February.
Provide support for community basketball one night each week. Present a devotional on occasion.
Contact: Chris Hunsberger at 879-1758 or chris.hunsberger@dawsonchurch.org
or Eric Hill at 879-1758 or eric.hill@dawsonchurch.org
Greeters/Ushers
W Worship Service Greeters, Ushers and Offering Collectors
Greet people and assist in seating at the 8:30 a.m. or 9:40 a.m. Chapel services, or the 9:40 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. Sanctuary services. Serve at evening worship or special events. As needed, assist in offering collection.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org or
Jeff Hindman at 871-7324 or jeff.hindman@dawsonchurch.org
W Door Greeters
Greet people as they enter the church for Bible study and worship or assist our guests at our Information Centers in locating Bible study classes at the 8:30 a.m. or 9:40 a.m. hours each Sunday.
Contact: Bill Johnston at 871-7324 or bill.johnston@dawsonchurch.org
W Sunday School Greeters
Greet Sunday morning guests at the Information Centers. Help guests choose a Bible study class, locate a room, and introduce guests to a class host.
Contact: Jan Jones at 871-7324 or jan.jones@dawsonchurch.org
Other Ministries
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