30 Aug 2011 Kemps named Bethlehem House Volunteers of the Year

Bethlehem House recently recognized Crystal and Mike Kemp as their 2011 Volunteers of the Year.

The couple was honored during the organization’s Annual Volunteer Recognition Reception at Second Baptist Church.

They were presented with a gift certificate to Mike’s Place and a framed drawing of the current shelter.

"We have amazing volunteers," said Bethlehem executive director Judi Lively. "Picking just one to be recognized is extremely hard. After reviewing the impact of all our volunteers, the Kemps were selected by our volunteer coordinator and staff."

The Kemps have been volunteering at the Conway shelter for more than a year. "They’ve involved their friends and family in the monthly Adopt A Meal program, providing and serving food in our soup kitchen."

They couple was also instrumental in getting a "Help Portrait" event in Conway last Christmas season.

"Mike and other professional photographers spent a morning taking high quality photographs of our residents and their families," Lively said. "One of the gentlemen they photographed hadn’t had his picture made in over 20 years.  

"Additionally, and this isn’t really something I recommend – Mike and Crystal opened their home to a new mother, her 2-year-old and her infant for the first few weeks after the baby was born. While I don’t normally recommend taking someone into your home, this time made a huge impact on that family. Crystal and Mike were able to teach parenting and organizational skills through example.  

"It was a wonderful experience for the Bethlehem House family."

To learn more about Bethlehem House and volunteer opportunities, please email Gail Hester at [email protected] or call 501.329.4862.