Author Archive

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.

Staff Spotlight: Meet The Kappenmans

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2020 has been a tumultuous year filled with challenges and difficulties but also many victories. One special blessing occurred last fall with the arrival of Pat and Debbie Kappenman to our staff team. They join Dennis and Virginia Hicks in serving our residents at the 4561 Camino Real Way home.

The Lord led Pat and Debbie to our ministry because of a prayer request suggested by two other staff members, Kim and Suzy Brooks. In praying for Protected Harbor, Pat and Debbie began to ponder whether the Lord was calling them to be of service here.

Pat retired from a career in finance and marketing last year and was seeking his next opportunity after this rite of passage. In the past, he also pastored a church and actively participated in two new church plantings where he served in both as an elder. 

Debbie joins Pat in bringing joy and blessings to the residents of Protected Harbor. She is a servant leader in all she does. She seeks every opportunity to provide daily training and positivity to the residents through her cooking, mentoring and praise. This energy lifts the spirits of all around her.

“We are blessed to have Pat and Debbie with our ministry. Their energy, passion and dedication to the ministry and residents of Protected Harbor resonate in all they do.” as recently commented by Loretta Mottram, our director. And we agree. 

For this couple, just married this past summer, joining the staff of Protected Harbor is the opportunity they were looking for to embrace a new calling in the Lord’s service. Please pray for Pat and Debbie to be fulfilled as they continue to serve to our residents and bring God’s joy into their lives.

Behind the Smiles: Meet Matthew

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As we enter the season that puts smiles on even the grumpiest people’s faces, allow us to introduce you to Matthew; the young man whose beautiful smile outlasts all seasons.

What’s behind Matthew’s smile?

Maybe it’s that he enjoys living in Florida, with its perpetually warm weather; a nice change from Westchester, NY with its brutally cold winters where he was born and attended school.

Maybe it’s that he can run laps at the boatyard across the street from the house he resides in, almost every day, except for exceptionally rainy ones.

Maybe it’s that he shares the house with a wonderful group of other residents whose company he enjoys and a staff that encourages him to join them in their morning jog.

Maybe it’s that his birthday happens to be during this season!

Whatever the reasons, this is a young man who as a transplant from New York, graduated High School in Miami. Still requiring a supportive environment, Matthew has adjusted well to his new house mates and adult mentors. With their love and encouragement Matthew can look forward to many happy years at Protected Harbor. 

He still clings to his original “likes”: NY at Christmas time and NY style Italian food!

He also likes music, basketball and dancing and envisions himself being a professional rap star or basketball player.

We are all looking forward to his first performance!!

Board Member Spotlight: Meet Joe Bare

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“Deep and wide

Deep and wide

There’s a fountain flowing

Deep and wide…”       

This children’s song very popular some decades ago in Sunday Schools all around the country came to mind while preparing to introduce one of the newest members of Protected Harbor’s board Joe Bare. While the song alludes to God’s infinite love for his children, in Joe’s case it underscores what depth of experience and knowledge he brings to the table.

Despite his unassuming demeanor, he is a man with a distinct pedigree, varied life experiences and a deep commitment to whatever he sets his mind to do.

A native of North Carolina, he continued living there with his family until joining the army at the young age of eighteen. He remained in the army for twenty years eventually achieving the rank of First Sergeant. During this long period and while traveling the world, including a tour in Iraq, he was able to earn a degree in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle University.

He finally left the army in 2007 and moved to Naples, Florida where he currently resides with his wife and three sons. This was not a retirement, however. Mr. Bare continued his studies  earning a Bachelor’s degree from Hodge’s University graduating Summa Cum Laude with a major in legal studies, all while also working full time teaching Leadership Education at a local Title One High School. In addition, he continued his studies at Ave Maria School of Law where he earned his Juris Doctor in 2019 graduating once again Summa Cum Laude.

While in law school Mr. Bare interned for the Hertz Global legal department. He currently practices at Boatman Ricci, a law firm in Naples, Florida.

In addition to his service work, Joe enjoys golfing, camping and spending time with his family.

Meet Kim & Suzy Brooks

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The Protected Harbor family has always been blessed, since its inception, with loving caring people who, casting aside their own personal dreams and desires, dedicated their lives to serving God and God’s special people. In April of this year, we were blessed with the addition of another such couple: Kim and Suzy Brooks. They have been compassionate caregivers not only to their own children, also to foster children as house parents in five Christian children’s homes in four states.

Their family consists of two adopted boys, two biological girls and one son in heaven. They also have four grandchildren with two more on the way! Their thirty-four yearlong marriage was therefore not only blessed by raising their biological and adopted children but also by ministering to children in the foster care system. 

More recently they felt led by God to switch their emphasis of ministry from children to adults with developmental disabilities. The ages may be different, but the need is the same; caring for those unable to care for themselves. The call to serve at Protected Harbor became therefore an obvious perfect fit for Kim and Suzy.

This wonderful couple use their infectious energy to engage the residents in various activities throughout the day including preparing creative meals like homemade pizza pockets. Creating foods like these fill the house with delectable aromas resulting in contagious smiles and giggles by the resident chefs as they gobble down their creations. Together they manage to turn good days into GREAT days, despite the pandemic. Throughout the cooking process, they never lose focus on the source of their blessings, as they remember to thank and praise God.

In addition to other gifts, Suzy is an amazing organizer, while Kim has handyman skills sorely needed in the homes. One day he can be found cleaning gutters, while another day he can be engaged in helping a resident shave! Together they have been able to fill many roles needed to make the lives of the residents better. Loretta Mottram, our Director, expressed it best: “They serve the Lord by sharing their gifts and talents to serve our residents.”

Finally, Kim and Suzy want everyone to know: “Our life verses have always been from James 1:27 “this is pure and undefiled religion in the sight of God the Father, to care for the widows and orphans in their distress…”  and from Matthew 25:40  “…truly I say to you to the extent you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even to the least of them, you did it unto Me.”

This is truly our heart, to follow God’s example and His leading in caring for the vulnerable in our society by loving them, caring for them and serving them for the glory of God.”

Board Member Spotlight: Meet Pat Ellis

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As older parents of an adult son with developmental disabilities Pat and Whitey Ellis had reason to be concerned and interested in finding a home where their son Dennis could later live with the kind of love and support his parents have provided throughout his life.  God heard their prayers and was already at work, preparing a place for Dennis’ future.

Friends, George and Athena Pappas also have a daughter with special needs. When Pat Ellis first met George he had already begun envisioning a safe living environment for adults with disabilities. While attending a meeting with George and others, Pat heard the idea of building a home where men and women who could not care for themselves independently was discussed. The idea was one that struck a note with Pat personally as the mother of a young man with a developmental disability.  She knew deep in her heart that this was not just “any” project, but a God thing.

In 2010, the idea of Protected Harbor became reality. When Pat and her husband, Whitey visited the first project, they were both impressed with the result. Not only was the spacious home beautiful, each resident having their own private bedroom with en suite bathroom, but it was clear the focus of all things would be “Christ centered”.  

“When I walked into the first Protected Harbor home after it was built, I was impressed with how well GOD worked to make Protected Harbor become possible for people with disabilities to find a loving and caring Christian home allowing them to live life at its fullest and be the best they can be.”

Even though this first home was designed exclusively for women residents (and the two staff couples that would also reside there), Pat enthusiastically joined the board of Protected Harbor. Then in January of 2018, a second, home was completed and Pat and Whitey’s son, Dennis became its first official resident. It is no surprise that Dennis loves it there. He frequently enjoys weekend visits with his parents but always reminds them when it’s time to take him “home” (to Protected Harbor). 

Not surprisingly, as Pat began her work on the board, she realized how many people were unaware of Protected Harbor or its purpose. She also became aware of the insurmountable challenges ahead as the need for financial support as well as suitable personnel became more pressing. 

Her work on the fundraising committee is one way she can  get the word out. With her special connection she is able to share the story of Dennis and Protected Harbor with everyone she meets.   Her message is simple but compelling: “Our Christian homes bring Christian values to this work, and the loved ones being served are treated with respect, dignity and are genuinely loved.” And then as a personal note she adds: “My son Dennis will continue to have a better life and so will so many others like Dennis who are seeking their forever home. My work is not just for Dennis, but for all the homes and all those who live there.”

Making an impactful connection with new friends and fellow Christians has become Pat’s most rewarding work now.  Her optimism shows when one speaks to her. She looks forward to the continued growth and expansion of Protected Harbor as they seek to build more homes for those in need. Because all those involved share her view that this is a project designed exclusively to honor God and the special people He created she believes that God will touch the hearts of new friends and generous people who will join in this mission.

Despite the current challenges presented by the pandemic and the frustration of having to inhibit the residents from living their usual routines outside the homes, Pat remains optimistic and forward looking. With so many more families needing the care and the services offered by Protected Harbor, facing the challenge of providing more homes as well as the funding necessary to accomplish it all is an ongoing effort. But as Pat and Whitey often reflect on happy memories of enjoying dancing, playing tennis and many travels around the world, these days can be described as one of peace knowing their son will be safely taken care of in a loving, Christian home for the rest of his life.

Resident Spotlight: Ken

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Newest resident, Ken, from Michigan, enjoys his sunny new home and newfound friends at Protected Harbor.

Our newest resident, Ken, comes to us from Michigan. He moved to Southwest Florida earlier this year with his oldest brother, Doug. Ken had previously lived in a group home and is excited to live in one again and hopes to eventually find a job, like he had up North.

Since joining the Protected Harbor II home, he has been embraced by the other residents for his calm demeanor and very sweet personality.

Because Ken has difficulty speaking, Protected Harbor Board member and Speech Language Pathologist, Alyssa Hayes, has already begun working with him regularly and finds him to be a good student.

Ken, the middle child of five boys, grew up happy and active as a child earning dozens of Boy Scout badges. He remembers his mom as a good cook and has wonderful memories of family meals. When both his parents passed, his brother, Doug, took the mantle of caretaker.

Now, Ken gets to create new moments with his Protected Harbor family. Ken has bonded with longtime Protected Harbor resident, Dennis, and the two of them can often be found sitting together on the front porch. Sometimes Ken and Dennis sit happily together in silence, while other times Dennis will regale him with stories and anecdotes about the Goodwill program, where Ken hopes to work soon. Ken usually responds by smiling and contributing an occasional word of interest.

Ken, along with the other residents, is looking forward to the lifting of the quarantine rules so he can enjoy activities like bowling, bike riding, and softball with the other residents. He also enjoys live music, anything related to scouting, and even his speech therapy sessions.

Ken sits with longtime resident, Dennis, on the front porch, their favorite spot of the house.

The house helped celebrate Ken’s 66th birthday on September 28, festooning the house with balloons and decorations. The celebration included his favorite foods like pepperoni pizza, cake, ice cream, and Sprite. He was surprised by his brother, Doug, who arrived with the gift of a recliner, a welcomed addition to his new room.

House manager Chadwick Duncan said, “It has been a pleasure having Ken come to live with us. He is a very warm and happy person with an endearing and calm demeanor. The other residents took to him immediately and he has fit right in. It has been a blessing for him and us.”

Resident Spotlight: Jake

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Resident Jake, an avid sports fan, smiles big with his jersey on.

Meet Jake!

Jake has been a resident of the Protected Harbor II home since 2018. Since he moved in, he has been loving his additional independence. In the last 2 years, Jake has become more communicative with others outside of his immediate family, experienced shared responsibilities of a home, and established an independent discipline of a routine.

Jake is always trying to make people laugh. Not a dinner goes by where Jake doesn’t get at least one chuckle out of his housemates. He loves adventures and the beach, attending church groups, and playing basketball.

Residents and staff members would describe him as the busy type. He is interested in many things and is always up for anything. Often times, you can find Jake rooting for his favorite sports teams, the New England Patriots and Boston Celtics.

Jake enjoys staying active by running on Protected Harbor’s treadmill, playing tennis and soccer, dancing, and boxing. His favorite hobbies include creating art and researching various topics. Lately, he has been most interested in learning about colleges and universities throughout the United States.

Jake stands in his Publix uniform after attending orientation.

Before COVID-19, Jake worked at his family’s commercial cleaning business twice a week, but he has always had a goal to work at Publix. With the help of Protected Harbor’s support staff and Adult Day Training (ADT) classes, Jake went to his interview prepared. He was offered a position, and the staff worked with his Waiver Support Coordinator and Job Coach to help Jake be successful.

Shortly after attending his orientation, the state went into quarantine and Publix made the decision to postpone his employment. Jake now looks forward to beginning his dream job once things return to normal. We are very proud of Jake and pray that he will soon be seen at his local Publix serving the public, gaining new skills, and building new friendships.

Board Member Spotlight: Joe Gandolfo

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Board of Directors member, Joe Gandolfo.

Protected Harbor is excited to announce the addition of Joe Gandolfo to our Board of Directors!

Born in Rome, Italy, Joe describes himself as a “preacher’s kid,” growing up with his father as a pastor and missionary. He moved to the United States with his family as a young boy, eventually earning a BA at City College of New York and subsequently, a Masters of Education. He then went on to teach in the New York City Board of Education for 32 years.

During his time teaching, he began to feel a burden for disadvantaged youth and their families. However, as a teacher, he felt quite helpless with the limitations imposed by the rules of distancing between students and their teachers.

While teaching, he began to work in the travel business taking student groups to Europe, and eventually becoming an independent contractor as a travel planner for American Express, a role he currently holds.

Joe now writes a travel blog to share his knowledge and experience of his travels.

In 2003, he began attending First Baptist of Naples where he met the “Band of Brothers,” a bible study group for men. Among the group, was Jeff Buchholz, Protected Harbor’s Board President, who introduced him to Protected Harbor.

“It was only after I personally visited the homes that I was able to visualize and understand how precious the residents are and how lovingly they are cared for,” said Joe. “I was hooked, and now I am honored to serve and hopefully, with God’s help, add my small contribution to Protected Harbor.”

Contributing, he is. Recently, Joe created a successful fundraiser for Protected Harbor and its residents. In addition to monetary donations, community members and organizations provided much-needed household items such as cookware, bedding, a mattress set, and games.

We are so thankful to have Joe as a part of the Protected Harbor family. His efforts to grow support for our residents among community members is very much appreciated.