PACEM Does JPJ

Not to brag, but I would imagine that there are few organizations in Charlottesville that can claim as many volunteers as PACEM can. Between our 50+ host and partner congregations and all of the other civic groups, businesses, community agencies, financial supporters, etc. whose selfless donations of time, energy and money contribute to the success of our winter shelter program for the homeless, we involve thousands of Cville-area residents each year in the life of our ministry.

This Friday, April 11, is our chance to thank each and every one.

That evening, we are having our annual end-of-season Recognition Event, from 6-8pm at the John Paul Jones Arena at UVa. Good food, live music, stirring speakers, and a special tribute to our volunteers -- plus a silent auction with many wonderful items up for bid. Also this year, we're debuting our first annual PACEM "Golden Pillow" and "Hope and Hospitality" Awards to honor folks in our community who've gone 'above and beyond' to help the homeless.

This will be a very special night, but...this is no ritzy/black-tie affair. We got a discounted rate on the facility and the musical entertainment (courtesy the singing group "Fire") is being provided free-of-charge. Volunteers have done most of the work in pulling the event together, and business sponsorships have covered what costs we did incur. We believe in celebrating the people who make PACEM possible, but we don't believe in spending a grandiose amount of money doing it. Our dollars are better spent ensuring that no one has to sleep outside on the streets of Charlottesville during the dead of winter.

If you yourself were involved with PACEM this past winter in any way, hopefully you've already received an invitation to join us on Friday -- if not, please consider this an open invitation to attend. The event is free and there will be plenty of free parking available. Hope to see you then!