Author Archive

Friend of the Board Spotlight: Kerry Kubacki

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We are pleased to welcome Kerry Kubacki as the newest member of Protected Harbor’s “Friends of the Board”. These special friends enhance our mission with their generous support, dedication and commitment. Kerry’s first introduction to Protected Harbor came from our board president, Jeff Buchholz, a fellow tablemate at First Baptist Naples’ Band of Brothers weekly Bible study sessions.

Initially he did not seem too interested in involving himself with another mission since he already was actively involved in several activities at First Baptist, one of which was the church’s food drive. He also volunteered at Hope for Haiti which was a satisfying way to serve God and Haitians in need.  A  turning point in his life came with a diagnosis of Covid-19. Kerry found himself in intensive care for twenty-one days where he came close to death. His faith and favorite Bible verse helped pull him through the trial: “Do not be afraid, I am always with you” Isaiah 43:5 Once recovered, after much prayer and intercession from family and friends, he came to the realization that God wasn’t finished with him yet; he had more to do before being called home.

God tugged at his heartstrings by reminding him of what he had heard about Protected Harbor. While hospitalized, Bible verses that emphasized God’s love for His special creations kept recurring and bringing his thoughts back to Protected Harbor and its special residents. He always had a love for children, but this was different: God’s special children are not categorized by age, but by His infinite love for them as a Heavenly Father.

Once he returned home from the hospital and began regaining his strength, Kerry was able to attend a board meeting and decided to join as a Friend of the Board. He felt deep in his heart that this is where God wanted him at this moment in his life. Kerry comes to us with a background which is as eclectic as he is: he began his work life at age twenty by driving a semi-truck for a large trucking company. He did that for fifteen years.

In 1987 he moved to Florida, where he reinvented himself becoming a real estate broker.  He worked for C & W Development for twenty years as their in-house broker as well as managing their model centers. He now works part time as a closing agent for Quicken Loans, specializing in mortgages. His thirty-five year marriage to the love of his life Tish, has produced two wonderful sons, Kory, twenty-nine and Kyle, twenty-seven. Tish teaches at Gulf Coast High School in Collier County. She and Kerry enjoy occasional escapes from the Florida heat by going to Colorado or North Carolina where the mountainous terrain is a nice departure from the flat Florida landscape. As a knowledgeable, hardworking, hands-on person, Kerry is definitely a blessing to our residents and the group of men and women who make the board of Protected Harbor so unique and special.

Behind the Smiles: Meet Ashley

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Ashley is one of Protected Harbor’s residents who contributes greatly to the smooth running of the house she resides in. She has made herself an important part of the prep and cooking team, becoming an integral participant in the success of the daily family dinners.  She loves living at Protected Harbor and regards it as her home and her fellow residents her brothers and sisters.

Much like several of her peers, Ashley volunteers in the Food Ministry of McGregor Baptist Church when school is in session. Her supervisors there praise her for her diligence on the job and occasionally invite her to work with them in the kitchen for other special events at the church. When she is not working, Ashley loves to spend time solving puzzles on her iPad, or engaging in an exciting game of Candy Crush. She chooses apps and games that help sharpen her decision making and thinking skills. She recently took up disc golfing, an activity her housemates also love. They are all looking forward to visiting an actual disc golf course to play their first non-virtual round.

Ashley loves her family and looks forward to holidays or special occasions giving her the opportunity to spend time with them. She is an avid Ohio State fan, proof of which is in her choice of attire: jersey, pants and even earrings with all the markings of the Buckeyes. All other teams need not apply!

Dennis, a staff member at Protected Harbor 1, observed that “Ashley is one of the best workers I’ve seen. She is always on the lookout for something to do and always provides excellent help when it comes to preparing meals. I can always count on Ashley to be ready to help out.”

 

Friend of the Board: Meet Pat Schubring

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Pat and her family

The familiar letters P.S. represent the Latin phrase “postscriptum”, which indicate an afterthought, a last-minute sentence added to a completed letter. However, at Protected Harbor we have our own very special P.S. in the person of Pat Schubring who is far from an afterthought, or a last-minute addition. In fact, Pat has been a valuable asset alongside her husband, Bob for many years, collaborating with and fundraising successfully on behalf of the residents and staff!

Pat and her husband became interested and eventually involved with Protected Harbor over ten years ago through their friendship with George Pappas whose daughter Cleo is still a current resident. Initially Pat saw how God was using Bob in this ministry, but wasn’t sure what her role should be, until she began spending time with the men and women with special needs. Seeing their grateful expressions and the magic spark that evolved into smiles, she became hooked!

Throughout her years of service to Protected Harbor, Pat has smiled, laughed, prayed and wept alongside the residents, remaining committed to the mission because of the love she developed for them. One memory that has remained indelibly embedded in her mind was seeing a former resident, Anne Marie, who was ill and unable to ambulate freely, being helped by volunteer Key Club students. Pat had invited this club of high school students to visit one of our Protected Harbor homes. They joyfully helped Anne Marie get to her feet and walk so she could participate in the games the others were engaged in. Behind the tenuous smile on Anne Marie’s face was the deep gratitude for being shown love and inclusion by what were mere strangers just a short time before. Pat cherishes that memory in her heart to this day.

As a member of the Naples Kiwanis Club, Pat has introduced numerous members to Protected Harbor over the years and engaged many in volunteering and donating. She has also extended her reach by involving three Key Clubs from three different local high schools: Barron, Gulf Coast and Palmetto. The students have volunteered by decorating for Christmas, baking cookies, doing various craft projects and celebrating life with the residents. All thanks to Pat’s leadership.

Her tireless work in coordinating our annual Prayer Breakfast as well as actively fundraising has kept her busy and engaged each year.  Making sure all she is involved in becomes a success, Pat aspires to see the mission of Protected Harbor grow and evolve in order to serve even more of God’s special people by creating opportunities for them to engage with each other, the community and the Lord.

Pat and Bob have been married for 21 years, have three children and seven grandchildren. They met on a construction site in Naples and were married in a lovely garden downtown, but five years later they remarried in a religious ceremony at First Baptist Church Naples. They both enjoy dining out with friends as well as traveling. One of their favorite trips was to Israel. Pat explained that this was a life changing experience for her, being able to walk where Jesus Himself walked many years ago.

Pat still spends time in the construction management field as well as in the interior design industry, all while volunteering at Protected Harbor, enjoying her family and being involved in church activities. Despite all the busy hours, Pat still manages to bake her ubiquitous chocolate chip cookies which she freely shares with family, friends and her very grateful customers. We are thankful that Pat Schubring is no P.S. afterthought, this a lady on a mission for God!

Friend of the Board: Meet Nicholas Ferrao

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Nicholas Ferrao has been a valued “Friend of the Board” at Protected Harbor for about two years. He, along with others who also serve in the same capacity, has not only a heart for the special people we serve, but he also enjoys spending time with them getting to know each resident personally.

He understands that our staff must keep detailed records of the training and activities of each member in their care. This is in addition to the overall administrative needs we have in managing the business end of Protected Harbor. Behind the smiles and the day-to-day activities of our residents, Nick works behind the scenes helping to streamline the processes, setting up new computer systems, while troubleshooting others in both homes. In order to contribute positively in achieving these tasks, it is impossible to calculate the number of volunteer hours he has contributed.

Nick’s heartfelt care and generous spirit are a direct result of his observing and being able to internalize his parents’ words and actions. His mother, Tanya Croy is a former teacher and has been an active board member for over three years at Protected Harbor. His father and stepmother, Aubrey and Tina Ferrao have also supported local organizations for decades. In addition to their generous financial support of Protected Harbor, Tina has served on the board of the Boys and Girls Club and currently serves on the board of Community Pregnancy Clinics.

What wonderful examples to learn from and emulate! Loretta Mottram, our Executive Director, added: “Nick is always open and eager to help whenever I have issues with ever evolving technology. He is the backbone of our `Donor Perfect System’. From data entry, to mail merges, he makes sure that our records are accurate and timely. Nick never forgets God’s Special People or the mission of Protected Harbor. From tether balls to Bibles, whatever a resident may need, he finds a way to fill it. We are blessed to have such an amazing Board of Directors and Friends of the Board network. They are what moves this ministry forward” concluded Mottram.

Driven by the Holy Spirit within, we are grateful for all Nick has done to help improve the lives of God’s Special People and everyone else involved with Protected Harbor. Nick would like to share one of his favorite verses: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards in God’s grace in its various forms”  1 Peter 4:10

Behind the Smiles: Meet Kimber

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Kimber is a well-rounded young woman who is a helper, a joker, a worker and a learner with a creative and intuitive mind. She is a woman always on a mission who loves to say; “I have a question”. What then follows is a conversation that may either lead to new insight or to explosive laughter as she uses her quick wit to turn the question into a joke. Asking questions has had the benefit of turning her into an encyclopedia of knowledge for household tips and she puts these into practice whenever possible.

When Kimber joins her housemates at McGregor Baptist Church’s food ministry, she contributes happily and efficiently. Because of the life skills training Kimber receives at Protected Harbor, the staff at McGregor appreciates her knowledge around the kitchen and her readiness and willingness to help with any chore.

When she is not working or doing household chores, Kimber likes to engage in crafts such as jewelry making, hat knitting or any new creative idea which may peak her curiosity. She also likes all sorts of games both online or actual board games, but her competitiveness is always light hearted and usually capped with uproarious laughter. Recently, she and her housemates have become interested in disc golf, and like them, she is looking forward to being able to play the game on a real course.

Kimber loves and misses her family, but is able to engage with them online often. She is particularly proud of being an aunt to her nieces whom she cherishes. “Kimber keeps me on my toes”, observed house manager Pat Kappenman recently. She added: “She likes keeping busy and she likes a good joke. We not only need to help her get her things done, we need to stay one step ahead of her humor!”

We are blessed to have Kimber. She is a wonderful member of the Protected Harbor family.

Behind the Smiles: Meet Janie

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Janie is usually one of the first residents up in the morning and one of the last to go to bed at night. She begins each day with an innate sense of excitement, an emotion which reveals her curiosity about what each new day will bring.

Her morning and evening routines anchor her day. They begin with a daily breakfast of coffee, oatmeal, or eggs and bacon. Her evening rhythm of crocheting and chit-chat is a comfortable bookend to her otherwise busy days.

While school is in session, Janie volunteers at the Food Ministry at McGregor Baptist Church alongside several of her housemate friends. There she works on prep and cleanup for the lunches served every day. When she is not volunteering at the church, she can usually be found sweeping sidewalks or helping with other chores. The valuable life skills training and support Janie and the other residents receive from the staff is always geared towards guiding them to become as independent as possible.

Janie is known as a prayer warrior in the house. She will often invite anyone near her to join her in prayer for people, situations, and needs she has been made aware of during the day. Her faith is pure, simple, straightforward and honest. She is aware that reliance on her heavenly Father is essential to her life and of the lives of those around her. Both the residents and staff at her house are grateful and feel blessed when Janie prays.

Despite living away from them, Janie loves all the members of her family, especially her older sister. They talk as often as possible sharing anecdotes about their daily experiences and humorous occurrences. She is also an animal lover, in particular dogs! A police K-9 team regularly trains in an open field adjacent to the house. Janie is mesmerized by the interaction between the officer and his dog. Her stuffed puppy Pepper is the closest thing she has to owing her own dog.

Janie also has a soft spot in her heart for babies and enjoys watching YouTube videos of young children in humorous situations, making her smile. Behind her smile is definitely a maternal instinct which explains her thoughtfulness as she serves and prays for others.

When asked about Janie for this article, Debbie Kappenman, one of the staff members at Protected Harbor 1, commented: “I am amazed at Janie’s stamina and joy. She is our oldest resident yet she keeps up with the ladies years younger than she is. But the sweetest thing about Janie is her praying. She is a model of that child-like faith and spirit that Jesus commends.”

Board Member Spotlight: Meet David Hammerstrom

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David-Hammerstrom-and-family

What makes the board of Protected Harbor so successful is the diversity and unique characteristics, talents and gifts each member brings to the table. One such person, and the most recent addition to the board, is David Hammerstrom. He hails from Connecticut where he spent 47 years working in the banking sector as a Senior Loan Officer and then Executive Vice President. In addition to which, he has also served in various positions on the boards for the Salvation Army, United Cerebral Palsy, the Chamber of Commerce, Home Builders Association, the Rotary Club, Kiwanis and Grovon Bible Chapel. On a more personal note, he has been happily married to his wife Nikki and is looking forward to joyfully celebrating their 50th anniversary this June alongside their two married children and four grandchildren.

David was introduced to Protected Harbor at First Baptist Naples during the yearly Missions week where various programs and mission opportunities are displayed. He was looking for an opportunity to serve in a faith-based program and found that Protected Harbor fit perfectly with his background experience. Beyond the basic appeal of being part of an organization that assists those who are incapable of caring for themselves, the fact that it offers an environment that is Christ centered sealed it for him. He saw Protected Harbor as a special opportunity to help families and their loved ones while providing a safe gospel centric environment so unique and needed in our society.

We welcome this multi-talented man who describes himself as a simple “meat and potatoes guy”, who also enjoys golf and settling down with a good book, especially those based on American history or biographies. God uses us not only based on our abilities and talents but also on our availability and willingness to answer His call when it reveals itself.

 

Staff Spotlight: Dennis & Ginny Hicks

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Dennis and Ginny Hicks joined the staff of Protected Harbor in 2017 and have never regretted their move. Prior to joining Protected Harbor both Dennis and Ginny were deeply involved in charitable occupations: she assisting a small group of elderly residents at Calusa Harbor in downtown Ft. Myers, he as a Chaplain at Pilot Truck Stop on Luckett Rd.

They regularly attended the same Life Group at McGregor Baptist Church as Perry and Beverly Duncan who introduced them to the idea of working at Protected Harbor. It took a bit of persuading, but the Hicks’ became convinced this was the right move for them after visiting the home where our first women were in residence. After spending much time in prayer, asking for God’s guidance in the matter, they received assurance from the Lord that this was what He wanted for them.

In 2018 Dennis and Ginny were integral in helping establish the second Protected Harbor home. They worked tirelessly to facilitate its successful launch after which they happily returned to the residents at the Camino Real Way home where they first began. The ladies residing there held a special place in their hearts and the feeling was mutual.

Dennis’ favorite part of working at the house is spending time alongside the ladies in the kitchen where they enjoy meal preparation and all aspects of cooking (and eating of course)!

Meanwhile Ginny occupies herself socializing and playing games with the ladies all while teaching them life skills useful in their everyday lives.  

Dennis and Ginny have been married almost 55 years. They have two adult sons who are married and successful in their own right. They enjoy going on trips using their “Travel Trailer” mainly to reach state parks where they can spend time fishing and roaming various flea markets they encounter while on the road.

“Dennis and Ginny are genuine servant leaders. They tirelessly give of themselves in every situation to help those we serve. They selflessly cover scheduling gaps, lend an extra hand to help with medical appointments, and work diligently to keep the landscaping at our property on Camino Real Way looking meticulous. We are blessed to have them on our staff” says Loretta Mottram, our Executive Director. This sentiment is shared by all who work alongside them or have had the pleasure of meeting them.

Behind the Smiles: Meet Dennis

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Dennis will proudly tell those he meets that he was one of the very first residents to occupy a room at Protected Harbor. He has adjusted well

and loves living in the house because he is able to share his passions with his new friends and housemates. One of his passions is baseball, and even with the added difficulties imposed by COVID and social distancing regulations, he recently has been playing once again. This is the first organized sports event he has been able to participate in for a while and he is very excited.

Dennis also loves attending church with his parents whenever possible, and enjoys singing God’s praises along with his mom and dad and the congregation. During most weekdays, Dennis spends time on his online Adult Day Training Program, but then cannot wait to return to the more physical, real world engagements with his friends and beloved teachers.

He gets out often to exercise and walk, but during his down times you will find him watching “Everyone Loves Raymond”, “The Andy Griffith Show” and other vintage comedies on TV. He also enjoys watching “Wheel of Fortune” and other game shows. When it comes to outings and given a choice, Dennis gravitates to Perkins or Dairy Queen where he is able to order and enjoy his meal of choice: a cheeseburger with fries and a Diet Coke.

Behind his perpetual smile, you may notice a twinkle in his eye belying a mischievous side.  House Manager, Chadwick Duncan explains here: “Dennis is our elder statesman, and you can count on him to know what is going on in the house. If you tell him someone is coming to visit two weeks from now, he will ask if they are still coming the night before the due date. But he can also be mischievous, ready to bring up a running joke when the house is quiet in order to get some humor flowing.” And Jeanni Duncan adds: “Dennis is always happy to see you and is our steady rock at Protected Harbor.”

This may explain why, even though he absolutely loves spending time with his parents, Dennis is always happy and anxious to return to what he calls, “home”.

Behind the Smiles: Meet Kim

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As we continue to introduce the residents of Protected Harbor by name through this newsletter, we hope your prayers for this ministry may become more specific for each of the wonderful residents who reside in our homes. 

Kim Williams is one such person. Behind Kim’s smile is a genuine concern and love for those around her. Despite the sometimes chaotic activities that mark each morning, Kim intentionally seeks everyone out to inquire how they slept the previous night, what kind of new day they expect, and offering them an encouraging word.

Kim keeps very busy most weekdays as she joins a team of volunteers from Protected

Harbor serving at the Food Ministry of McGregor Baptist Church. She loves working in the kitchen, preparing food, exploring recipes and cleaning up.  When she is not working, Kim enjoys knitting. She and a small group of ladies knit caps and shawls for cancer patients. She calls it the “prayer shawl ministry” because while knitting, they pray for all the people who will use the shawls.

Due to Covid restrictions, Kim has missed one of her most cherished activities, singing in the McGregor Baptist Church choir.  Kim’s time of rehearsing and singing in the choir has been temporarily suspended. She misses it tremendously, continually asking when she can begin singing again. Please join us in prayer that she will be able to resume this activity soon.

Kim also loves jokes and riddles. She constantly tries to stump the staff with her most recently discovered riddles. She also enjoys riding her bike, especially now that the weather is cooler. She takes every opportunity to join the three or four mile treks alongside the staff and other residents.

When asked about Kim for this article Virginia Hicks, one of the Protected Harbor staff members, said: “I don’t know a sweeter soul than Kim. She is one of the kindest people I know.” While Pat Kappenman added: “We enjoy the laughter and joy Kim brings to the house and to our lives.” Please pray for Kim and thank God for the joy and spirit she shares with her Protected Harbor family.