Today we made our way from Maryland to Pittsburgh. We had a good trip to Mount Airy but we had much to look forward to in Pittsburgh.
Our first stop was Manchester-Bidwell. MB is a wonderful organization which seeks to provide job training and life skills to people who are in need of this type of support. The founder is Bill Strickland. The very cool thing is that he will be the keynote speaker for a Western Avenue Community Center fundriaser this coming Monday June 21. MB is an amazing institution. We were able to work alongside one of their graduates and many of their students. We did two and a half hours of amazing landscaping and the people we worked with said that our students were the hardest workers and the most kind students they worked with. They even commented that our students were properly and appropriately dressed for which they were grateful. After we worked we sang several songs for our team leaders. They were so appreciative. We then got cleaned up and then went off to our afternoon concert.
I cannot explain how meaningful of a stop Manchester-Bidwell was for us. In addition to getting the students exposed to a very successful adult vocational program, they got to visit the place that will serve as the inspiration for some new ministries at 2PC. Chef Paul and others are exploring the possibility of a culinary arts work training program. Roane is thinking about a fine arts program. And other things are possible. Tom, Chip, and Jan had a meeting with their staff to learn more. They left inspired and excited about the possibilities. I also hope that our students can get inspired to be a part of the new ministry.
We then went to Reformed Presbyterian Home and did a concert for the retirement community. It was a heartwarming experience for all involved. Senior Elizabeth Pouliot said, “It was great to bring a smile to the older adults’ faces.”
We then had dinner at Primanti’s Brothers for their famous sandwiches and then headed to a Pittsburgh Pirates game. It was a great day on Tour.
