20th Annual Culler Memorial Basketball Tournament

Team slots are filled for this year’s tournament. Feel free to come out and watch the games!

We are so pleased to be able to host this annual tournament!

This year’s tournament will be held on Saturday, March 16th.

Get your teams together and head our way for some friendly competition.

The registration fee is $150.00 per team.

Many of you have participated in this tournament year after year.

It has become a highlight of our Spring here at Show-Me. Don’t wait to register your team!

The double elimination bracket allows for 8 teams and slots fill up fast. We can’t wait!!!

If you have any questions, please email Judi at judi.crawford@showmekids.org.

By |2024-02-16T13:08:06-06:00January 3rd, 2024|Categories: Children, Events, Sports, Uncategorized|

Where Love Grows: a Tribute to Karen Culler (1947-2022)

Karen Culler’s legacy is not one of perfection; it is of faithfulness. Through many trials and challenges, she prayed, rolled up her sleeves and went to work – uncertain of God’s plan, but confident in His calling. “I learned to trust God each step of the way…not giving in to asking ‘why,’ but simply keeping on keeping on,” Karen said. “They will see us when we fail and fall short, but if we determine every day, anew, to live according to His standards, it will show that our lives are being transformed.”

Living the American Dream

By the world’s standards, Karen Kohn lived a picturesque, American life. She grew up on a farm near Bethel, Missouri, in a strong Christian family. Through her daily life on the farm, she developed a strong work ethic, the courage to try many things, and a deep personal faith.

A month after her high school graduation, she married her sweetheart, Gale Culler. Both had good jobs and looked forward to a house full of children. In 1967, the couple was blessed with their son, Troy.

Karen and Gale yearned to be used more by God, but without having a formal Bible-college education, doubts crept in and they struggled with what their mission was supposed to be. They kept praying for direction and serving where they were.

A Life Spared for What?

In 1971, Karen’s pressure cooker exploded while she was canning peaches in her kitchen. Her body was severely burned, but her face was spared because her double oven had prevented the lid from flying all the way off. During her long hospitalization, she nearly died from infection. Gale and Karen both felt that God had spared her life and He must have a purpose for doing so.

Was it children? For years the couple tried to grow their family without success. They endured several miscarriages, and after the birth of Troy, they had been told by their doctor that any more children would be unlikely. How could God leave this overwhelming desire on their hearts?

Learning of an adoption option at Cookson Hills, the Cullers took a trip to receive a baby that needed a home and family. At the last moment, the baby’s mother changed her mind and canceled the adoption. The Cullers were heartbroken.

Yet, the journey was not in vain. They were touched by how children were being loved for the Lord through Christian childcare families. The seed had been planted. They knew this was something they could do: take care of and love children. This feeling was confirmed when a friend called telling them about a need for houseparents at a children’s home in East Tennessee. Soon after, the Cullers packed their car and headed south to start what seemed might be a dream come true.

“Love Them for What I Can Make Them”

In Tennessee, the dream quickly became a nightmare. The family ministry they envisioned was more an institutionalized setting. Gale and Karen were house parents for 13 teenage girls, all of whom did not want them there. None of whom seemed to have any desire to change. They did everything they could to get the family to give up and leave. It brought the Cullers to their knees.

“I have never been exposed to anything like this in my life,” Karen cried out to God in anguish. “How can I live with them under my own roof?  How can I love them when they are so unlovable?” God’s answer transformed her: “Love them for what I can make them, not for what they are today.”

Gale and Karen came to realize that each of those hurting young people had been through more in their short lifetimes than they could ever imagine. The Cullers’ rules, discipline, and even fortitude would not tear down the walls that the girls had put up to protect themselves. As one girl put it, “I never wanted to love you. Anyone I ever love leaves.” The girls had to choose to lower the walls. By reflecting God’s unconditional love, trust could be formed. With trust, the walls came down, relationships were built, and a family began to bond. Those lessons from Tennessee would prove instrumental in the next step of the Cullers’ journey.

“It’s Got Potential”

Ray Gipson, the Executive Director of Show-Me Christian Youth Home, had for years tried to court the Cullers to come see the Missouri ministry. Finally, on their next vacation, the Cullers visited Show-Me. At first glance, the struggling ministry in La Monte wasn’t much to look at: three facilities that cared for six children, one calf, and a badly built barn. Still, the Cullers both felt with certainty that God was opening another door. Gale phrased it best, “It’s got potential.”

In 1977, they rolled up their sleeves and went to work. In addition to caring for children, Gale oversaw farm operations and Karen did the bookkeeping. Six months later, Show-Me had 18 children in residence and Gale was asked to become the Executive Director.

Their experience in Tennessee had shown them how an institutional setting wouldn’t work as effectively as the rural-family structure in which they had grown up. Working together in a farm setting, the children would be taught a good work ethic, build character, and see God at work in their lives in spite of all the struggles of the past.

From livestock to houses, from children to staff, Show-Me grew and grew for the next 20 years. Each day began early with family prayer and devotions, then out the door to start chores before heading to school. The children were responsible for assisting Gale with the care of the animals, which included cows, chickens, and pigs. Karen worked with the girls throughout the day, cooked and cleaned, and spent late nights doing the book work and publicity.

Things were never easy, but God met them every step of the way. With limited resources, Show-Me tried to help as many kids as they could. Tight finances, uncertain futures, and dealing with kids during their “rough times” were facts of life. “The Lord is keeping it that way so we’ll never forget to totally depend on Him,” the Cullers would say.

Show-Me…Where Love Grows

Nevermore would that statement be personally tested than over the last 25 years of her life. The Cullers leaned heavily on the Lord through the loss of their only biological son, Troy, in a car crash.  Karen would face the failing health of loved ones, Gale’s cancer and dementia, and finally her own battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease. He would be with her as two of her grandchildren and Gale, her dear husband of 54 years, preceded her in death. Through it all, Karen remained faithful.

In 2011, Gale and Karen passed the baton to the next generation, having established a six-home campus with a Christian School, ball stadium and office complex, as well as satellite homes across the state of Missouri. Over 50 children were raised in her home and thousands under her leadership. She remains endeared by the staff, community, children, and the childrens’ children, as well as everyone who knows her simply as Grandma Karen. Through their passion to meet the needs of hurting kids, the Cullers established an extensive network of support and provision of resources.

Ever faithful, Karen pressed on with the eternal work the Lord called her to do to make Show-Me a place “where love grows.”

By |2022-04-18T15:09:50-05:00April 18th, 2022|Categories: Child's Story, Children, Events, Houseparent, Testimony|

Students Become the Teachers

The Fires & Refinement of the Class of 2021
How would you survive if you were bounced between 30 different foster care home or had dozens of siblings? Imagine being forced to go to a new country where no one speaks the only language you know. What would you do if you had the responsibility of caring for five children, all under the age of five years, without the most basic of resources? What if, in the blink of an eye, an accident causes you to suffer a near fatal brain injury that leaves the majority of its victims unable to ever speak or walk again? To any adult, these tasks would be daunting. To a child, they would seem impossible to overcome. For the Show-Me Christian School Class of 2021, these are challenges they have faced and came out victorious. Battles that have not broken them. Trials that have strengthened, refined, and inspired them to set out on a mission that God has uniquely designed each to complete.

From a Junker to God’s Classic

For most of his life, Michael thought of himself as a junker car that was ugly, dented, and unwanted. Born to drug-addicted parents, Michael bounced between 30 different foster homes before he was adopted at the age of 5. He acted out trying to be “cute” as he desperately worked to earn his new parents’ affection. His “cuteness” may have gotten him noticed as little child in the foster homes, but his antics created more negative effects as he got older. At school, kids would pick on the childish, short, skinny kid who was always trying to get the teacher’s attention. The bullying made him afraid to talk to other kids or make friends. It led to a vicious cycle of problems and isolation. Michael struggled in school, each year falling further behind. For eight years, Michael constantly worried that his adopted family might not want him either. Instead of taking responsibility for his actions, Michael would lie, telling the adults what he thought they wanted to hear. As he got older, his sadness boiled over into anger, then depression. Feeling lost and without purpose, he tried to take his life in 5th grade. His parents felt helpless. If the years of counseling and trying everything they knew didn’t help, what else could they do? Someone told them about Show-Me in 2014. They realized that the structured daily routine, positive Christian atmosphere, and one-on-one teaching style was an environment in which
Michael could thrive. “I thought it was going to be a vacation from home – boy was I wrong” Michael laughed. “It isn’t easy, but Show-Me is a fresh start for us kids coming here.”

When 13-year-old Michael sat down for lunch on his first day, he realized there was something different about this place. Miguell, an older 8th grader, sat next to him and started to talk with him. Michael didn’t have to do or say anything to earn his friendship, this guy wanted to be his friend. For the first time in a long time, he didn’t feel lost or alone. Over the next few years, Michael learned to accept the love of family. Focusing on his studies and with extra help, he caught up in school. He discovered his mechanical gifts and learned the value of hard work by assisting his houseparents with hands-on projects – gifts he hopes one day to use in his own automotive shop. The biggest change came the day he heard Pastor Alan talk about what Christ’s sacrifice meant. It not only showed God’s love for us, but it was proof that each of our lives have purpose.

Trusting in that love and believing for the first time that his life truly did have purpose, Michael asked to be baptized. Michael no longer worries about earning God’s love or being wanted. He knows that he is a child of the King of Kings. In his senior devotion message this March, Michael used the illustrations of cars to explain to his classmates how God rescues and restores each of our lives. Michael knows that he
is not the worthless junk car he once believed he was. He is a classic Mustang that God is in the process of restoring.

Hope in Hidden Answers

Ever think having a brother or sister can be a lot to deal with, try having 42! Sadie has been a part of Show-Me all 18 years of her life. Never the oldest and rarely the youngest, she learned to be very observant, keep calm, and find organization in chaos. The details of each siblings story’s may be different, but all share a common factor – they are children caught in the crossfire of struggling families. They are broken lives who don’t understand how or why they ended up in this situation. Many are angry because so much is out of their control and fearful their life is destined to turn out like their parents. Sadie saw that the thing her brothers and sisters were really searching for was hope: hope for their future found in answers from their past. It is that hope that compels Sadie to seek a career in criminal justice. “The love, loss, and hope I’ve learned and gone through has taught me to want to fight for hope for others,” stated Sadie. “Working for a federal crime fighting agency, my wish is to give hope to the families and loved ones of the victim by finding answers, solving cases, and preventing the suspect from
destroying more lives.”

Failure Leads to Success

When Jonas arrived in Missouri to meet his adoptive parents, he could only speak and read in his native Ethiopian language of Amharic. Communication was a great challenge since no one else around him could speak it. Without words, how could he let people know how he was feeling or what he needed? Even though over the next few years he would learn English, his difficulty in communicating snowballed into more problems. Jonas began his education three grades behind. The language barrier made
learning extremely slow and frustrating. Despite putting in many extra hours of work, Jonas fell more and more behind in school. His inability to communicate left him feeling angry and alone. He began to believe the lies in his head that he was a disappointment to everyone, he would never be good enough, and he could only count on himself for help. His anger grew more out of control each year, even to the point where he needed to be physically restrained to calm down. Finally, realizing Jonas needed more help than they could give him at home, his parents reached out to Show-Me. The new environment was good for Jonas. The individualized school program allowed him to go at his own pace. The smaller
class sizes and additional help from his teachers gave him the means to understand. He finally had the tools he needed to catch up in school and graduate. Yet, if you ask Jonas what led to his success the most, he will tell you it’s “failure.” In his endless failed attempts to be “good enough,” he realized that no matter how much he accomplished or how many people liked him, he was never going to be worthy in everyone’s eyes. It is an impossible task to achieve. “Nothing matters except how God sees you,” realized Jonas. “God loves us for who we are, not what we accomplish or what we have. If God considered me – flaws and all – worthy, maybe I could, too.” Jonas began listening and trusting the people that God
was sending to help him. In failing on his own, He learned success could be found in trusting God and the community of support He sends for guidance.

A Rough Start for a Greater Cause

Ana never really had a childhood. The oldest of five siblings, Ana became the caretaker early on while her mother was out. There was no time to think about what Ana wanted or how Ana felt, she had a job to do. Her siblings needed her. That all changed in 2010. Two ladies from a Vacation Bible School told her mom about Show-Me. The next thing seven year-old Ana knew, she and her five younger siblings were
living at Show-Me. Her old job was taken away. Her new job was to be a kid. “I was overwhelmed because I didn’t know what to do since they didn’t want me taking care of my siblings,” Ana recounts.
Over the next few years, Ana saw how God had always been watching out for her. She remembered how an unexpected- person seemed to pop into their lives at just the right time when they needed food, a place to stay, or some other kind of help. She realized how God had protected them from the bad people
finding them.

Seeing that the God of the Bible, who was always there for His people, was the same one in her life, Ana accepted Christ. “Jesus used my bad life for a greater cause: my growing and maturing in Him (my Savior),” Ana stated. “Jesus led, not by forcing others to follow, but by being the model that made others choose to follow.” Desiring to be that positive role model, Ana heads this fall to college to become a social worker. She hopes to shows young people, who look like her, that they can beat the odds, too. “I want kids, who feel broken like I did, to see that they can overcome their past,” Ana said. “They can find another way to succeed, and not become the statistics society says they will be.”

Focus on God Can, Not “I Can’t”

Brendan’s life changed in a instant that day in 2016. Playing tag, he ran into a volleyball net, which caught him by the face and slammed his head against the hard floor causing his skull to fracture. He was life-flighted to Children’s Mercy Hospital. The doctor’s warned his traumatic brain injury (TBI) might
cause him to never be able to see, walk, or talk again. His only chance was to have an emergency surgery to remove the blood clot on his brain and put in two titanium plates. Over the following months, the physical pain slowly decreased but the emotional struggles increased. To give his brain a chance to heal, the doctors told him he had to eliminate most physical activity for the next two years. Thinking about all
the things he could no longer do made Brendan become more and more depressed. How could God let this happen? Maybe he should just give up and accept that he could no longer ever have a “normal” life as an independent adult.

Then, Brendan made a decision. He would not give up! He would focus on what he could control and trust God to take care of the rest. Philippians 4:13 became his life verse. Brendan might not be able to do certain things, but through Christ’s strength, he could do what God wanted him to do. He focused on his school work and strengthening his muscles a little every day. Over the next four years, Brendan’s dedication and faith revealed a bigger picture that he had once missed. In rehab, he saw other young men, who had suffered TBI injuries. These men could not talk, walk, or do basic life functions. Seeing Brendan and the progress he was making gave these men hope. Those men helped Brendan realize that God didn’t abandon him in his injury. He shielded him, sent people to encourage him, and be with him
through every step. Instead of being upset about what he couldn’t do, Brendan is now grateful for all
the things that he can do.

Choosing the Refiner’s Fire

A few years ago, the members of the Class of 2021 might have written their life’s stories a little
different if they had the choice. Now, they are grateful for each moment of their testimony. In the
refiner’s fire their eyes were opened. In the flames they saw how they are not alone. God was and will
always be there with them through every step. He uses experiences the world wants us to believe
can only destroy a life to strengthen and refine His children into the change agents He will use to
transform for good their families, communities, and world. As the Class of 2021 has shown, we
only need to be brave enough to trust Him and the work He is doing.

 

By |2021-05-31T20:27:47-05:00May 31st, 2021|Categories: Child's Story, Children, Events, Teen, Testimony|

Overcoming the Impossible

A Step to Connect What We Love with Who We Know

“A Journey Of A Thousand Miles Begins With One Step”

– Lao Tzu

“IMPOSSIBLE!” would be the gut-reaction of most of us, if we saw God’s plan for the rest of our lives. Knowing the challenges ahead, our fear could paralyze us before we start. Lao Tzu’s saying, the 2020 Restoration Gala’s theme, reminds us that all tasks – no matter how big or difficult – start in the same way…with a single step. It doesn’t matter if it is expanding to meet the ever-growing need of children, or trying to outrun childhood ghosts. Each seemly ‘impossible’ journey starts with a single step of faith, trusting God to provide along the way everything else needed.

“How Can I Do Nothing?!?”

Left to grow up in unhealthy environments, children experience traumatic events that remain with them the rest of their lives affecting relationships, prospects of a successful future, and their faith – in God, in others, and in themselves. Even the lucky ones, who appear to break the cycle (see Keyon Dooling’s story on page 3), may carry emotional scars that threaten everything. Without help, the odds are stacked against these young lives having a happy childhood or growing into healthy, independent adults.

Over 50 years ago, upon seeing these battered young spirits, a group of Good Samaritans were compelled to answer, “How can I do nothing!?!” Collectively, they stepped forward to create Show-Me and rewrite the near and eternal futures for hundreds of children.

Can We Keep Turning Them Away?

The sad fact is that each year Show-Me can only say “YES” to five percent of the requests for help. Our current homes have reached their capacity. Safely, we can no longer add to the 50-year-old framework with short-term renovations, which are not cost-effective or adequate. If we are to meet the growing demand to help more children, our infrastructure must be rebuilt so new homes can be added. Compelled once again by the Spirit, a request is being sent out to find compassionate hearts willing to step with Show-Me as part of The 2020 Vision Campaign to Rescue and Restore Even More.

The $3 million campaign will enable us to serve up to 85 children by adding three new homes and expanding our school capabilities. The first step is almost complete and funded with the updating of the main campus infrastructure (water and waste management systems). The next step is to build two new homes and enlarge the current school facilities to accommodate up to 80 students. The second campus in Barnett, MO continues its development with the Reed home currently under construction. Future steps will include a new office across from the homes and school, creating more safety check-in points and relocating non-school staff and programs.

If Children Can Be Helped, But No One Knows…

To provide the stability needed for the new families that will live in the three homes currently under construction, we must not only maintain, but increase our steady, ongoing, monthly support. The estimated cost to support a new 10-person family is an additional $5,000 per month per home. New supporters must be found to help the children waiting.

But where? Each year, more and more of our most faithful, long-term supporters have gone on to be with the Lord. Congregations struggling to keep their doors open trim their missions support. Today, fewer churches and Sunday Schools provide time for missions to speak. Christian Conferences and camp attendance have seen a steady decline over the last 25 years. Relying more on mainstream methods such as billboards or commercials is just too costly to be practical.

The problem is not people believing in the mission; almost everyone who talks with a child or comes out to visit becomes active in some way. “I never knew a place like this existed for kids,” is a common phrase uttered by first-time visitors. The problem is how do we connect Show-Me in its rural locations with new supporters, most of whom do not live anywhere close to Show-Me and whose lives are dictated by their hectic schedules.

If They Can’t Come to Show-Me, Bring Show-Me to Them!

In 2018, the 1st Annual Restoration Gala was held. While financially a success, the greatest treasure came in the form of new relationships, which have opened doors for Show-Me to speak at their businesses, community groups, and churches.

Kim Ream, a former American Family Insurance agent in Warrensburg, MO, was instrumental in connecting Show-Me with the American Family Insurance Charity, Inc. (AFIC). Thanks to her nomination, Show-Me was selected as the beneficiary of the 2018 AFIC Annual Golf Tournament. The tournament raised over $25,000 and resulted in American Family Insurance donating over $45,000. “I don’t know many people who can write a check for $25,000 out of their own bank account,” laughed Director Chad Puckett. “But, many of us have relationships that could have a tremendous impact to help the ministries we love.”

With this in mind, this year’s 2020 Restoration Gala is focused on raising new friends. We are asking those passionate about children to use this event to connect Show-Me with these kind of key relationships, who may have the expertise and gifts we need to take the next step. In hopes to get the message out to as many new people as possible, ticket prices are $25 (covering the cost of the meal). Former NBA player and Mizzou star, Keyon Dooling’s testimony offers a rare and candid glimpse into how events in our childhood set the foundation for the rest of our lives. Hearing from Keyon and a teenager at Show-Me, Josie, folks will understand the critical help and healing that a place like Show-Me provides.

A Formula to Move Mountains

By ourselves, the journey to solve these problems seems impossible. We are just ordinary people with limited resources on our own. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9-11, our weakness is our greatest strength because that is the formula God has used time and time again for the world to know His grace and love. Jesus promises we can move mountains. We just have to trust Him enough to take that first step, then enjoy the journey ahead.

 

By |2020-02-06T10:37:18-06:00February 6th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Vision Campaign, Celebration, Events, Uncategorized|

Building on Foundations of Faith

HEROES STEP FORWARD TO RESCUE &
RESTORE MORE!
By Chad Puckett, Director

God’s timing: perfect!
Praise God for His incredible provisions and how He shows His faithfulness through His people! Let me share with you what has taken place in His ministry at Show-Me in the last couple years.

As we celebrated Show-Me’s 50th Anniversary in 2017, we reflected on our Father’s provisions and captured the momentum to “Rescue and Restore Even More.” We launched a capital campaign to add new homes, upgrade water systems, expand satellite campuses, and enlarge the Christian School after building a new office.

God’s people: providing!

God’s people responded enthusiastically to get this off the ground. A donor in Minnesota made the initial deposit into the campaign of $250,000. Then, the folks at Greentree Christian Church in Rolla, Missouri, chose Show-Me for their 2017 Thanksgiving offering, contributing over $130,000. Soon, ground broke for an additional home at the La Monte Campus, while plans were finalized for the water treatment programs.

Weather complicated the extensive excavation needed for the new home at the La Monte campus, completed by Bruce Morton of Morton Custom Contracting in Sedalia, Missouri, at a greatly reduced cost. As this preceded, Forum Christian Church in Columbia, Missouri, approached Show-Me about funding and constructing the walls needed for the home.

The Homes for Hope program enables the congregation to build the walls in eight-foot sections in their parking lot, to be transported here and assembled on site. They slated this project for June, 2019. Again, God’s people come through!

Campus-community: expanding!
Realizing that the Show-Me program works best in a campus community, we launched into the development of the Drysdale
campus. Ground broke for the third home at the Drysdale Campus in Spring of 2017, the Reed Home, funded through the sale of the former Camdenton homes sold in 2011. Through a series of misfortunes, the construction of this home was delayed
beyond our control. Finally, in the Fall of 2018, the excavation was completed and the basement prepared. God’s people came through again, providing a volunteer rough-in crew to “shelterin” the home in March 2019. Jake Sbabo from Rolla, Missouri, provided his crew to accomplish this huge step forward.

Even while we planned for the expansion of the Drysdale campus, God presented us with an incredible opportunity. A Mennonite family just a block away (who has been incredible neighbors) presented us with an opportunity to rent one of their homes, a five-bedroom farmhouse. The Eades family moved from the La Monte campus in May, 2018, to reside there with
their six children, which soon grew to eight. RJ and Marie Bachtold were then able to begin their ministry at the LaMonte
campus. Yes! More children Rescued and Restored!

And, a bonus!
While the construction of these homes progressed, God prompted a generous couple to donate their beautiful home and
70 acres in October of 2018 to further the ministry. Bill and Marilyn Seibert built their dream retirement home near Lincoln, Missouri, twenty years ago with Show-Me in mind, knowing that when they were no longer able to use it, Show-Me could.
The Watkins family moved from the Knob Noster home to this four-bedroom, five-bathroom home in November, 2018. New
houseparents, Tim and Sarah Scott, move into the Knob Noster home in June, 2019 to begin a family – and rescue & restore even more!

Debt-free? No doubt!
Since paying off all debts in 2014, we’re committed to remaining debt-free as we grow. Funds are on-hand for everything currently under-construction, and we’ll continue that way.

Also, we’re not asking donors for pledges, as they often divert their current donations from the operating funds to the building
funds, leaving us unable to utilize the new facilities. Rather, we developed the strategy of asking those interested and capable to make one-time gifts. And, it’s working!

And a word about operating funds. As we grow the facilities here, we likewise need to grow the operating funds. We estimate the cost to operate a home each month is $5,000; last year, the Lord provided a surplus of $61,000 (=$5,000+ per month)! Praise God, He’s making it clear that we can support another home!

Our God: glorified through His people!
All this in the last two years while I “sat back and watched!” Years ago as I wrestled with the overwhelming task God gave me as Director of Show-Me, my Father gently and clearly told me, “You take care of the kids; I’ll take care of everything else.” He receives great glory working through His people, I just need to step out of the way!

How about you? How does our Father accomplish His great work through you and the resources He’s given you?
Send me a note – I would be honored to hear and rejoice with you!

House 7 under construction at our main campus

The Plan

1. Fix key Infrastructure
• @ Main Campus
— New drinking water system
— Update Waste system
2. Expand Capacity
• Add new homes
— Build House #7 @ Main campus
— Add 3 homes @ Drysdale Campus
+ Build Reed Home
+ Rent Rissler Home
— Build school / gym at Drysdale campus
— Link Lincoln Home with Drysdale Campus
• Increase staff & support
— Houseparents (Need 2 more)
— Find ongoing $ support
($5K/mo per home)
3. Upgrade facilities for growth
• Enlarge School (~ 80 students)
— Upgrade current facilities
+ Create elementary school area
+ Build Leadership U Indoor Arena
+ Update gym & muliti purpose area
+ Renovate stadium
— Relocate non-school staff & programs
+ Build new office across from school
+ Renovate area for volunteer lodging
— Build new science labs & locker rooms
• Build House #8 – at La Monte

The Davis-Domann Court 

Our Newest Home in Lincoln, MO

Leadership U Arena

Drysdale Rental Home

By |2019-03-16T20:37:15-05:00March 16th, 2019|Categories: Child's Story, Children, Events, Testimony, Uncategorized|

New Image for Show Me Homes

Dear Friends,
‘Things don’t happen by chance, they happen by change.’
After celebrating 50 fantastic years of Show-Me Christian Youth Home, let’s launch into the next 50 with a fresh new image of what Show-Me is all about.  Let’s challenge the image of a “youth home” by exploring who needs a place like Show-Me and what the ultimate goal of this ministry truly looks like.
You, I, and the rest of the world, need Show-Me.  Not all of us will need to place a child here (but, honestly, if we ever find ourselves in that position, I’m glad we have a choice).  We need this ministry because there will always be vulnerable kids who need a home, a family.  As a Christ-follower, I have a unique opportunity and obligation to reach into their lives.  Christianity never looks more beautiful than when His people engage in the needs of the world around them.
The ultimate goal beyond the “Rescue” includes the “Restore.”  We strive to prepare each child for a healthy future and excellent eternity.  Healthy, restored, Christ-following adults make this world a better place for all of us.
Show-Me evaluated every aspect of the program and made significant changes and updates to reflect the needs of the children we serve.  Now, in this 51st year, let’s launch a new image of Show-Me Christian Youth Home!
I love the new image: fresh, inspiring, simple.  “Show-Me Homes,” what most folks call us anyway, and though “Christian” and “Youth” are no longer part of the branding, it will always be our driving force, as reflected boldly in our Mission:  “Compelled by Christ to Rescue and Restore Young Lives.”
Thank you for joining the force to reach into vulnerable lives, provide for their needs, and prepare them for a great future and eternity!
Blessed to Bless,
Chad Puckett
Director
By |2018-09-18T16:55:12-05:00September 18th, 2018|Categories: Celebration, Children, Events, Uncategorized|

Introducing the Graduates from the Class of 2017

Each of these young adults have earned their Path to Purpose diplomas. By achieving this milestone, each graduate will have access to $500 in emergency funds, assistance in purchasing their first vehicle, and whatever ongoing support they need to keep their momentum moving in the right direction.

Name: Destin McMurray
Years at Show-Me: 4 years
Graduate of: Show-Me Christian School
The Next Chapter: Attend State Technical College of Missouri in Linn, to specialize in Biomedical Engineering Technology. “I will help people by fixing the machines that are used to save their lives.”
Impact Show-Me had on his Life: “When I came here, I didn’t talk to anyone. I was shy and kept to myself. But, I learned how people think and what their actions mean. I have learned the confidence to be a leader.”

Name: Emma Novak
Years at Show-Me: 5 years
Graduate of: Grundy County High School
The Next Chapter: Become a PreMed student majoring in Biology at The College of the Ozarks. After college, I plan to continue onto Med School to become a Pediatrician and eventually travel as a medical missionary.
Impact Show-Me had on her Life: “Show-Me planted a seed in me for loving children and a yearning to help those in need.”

Name: Grace Brodersen
Years at Show-Me: 6 years
Graduate of: Show-Me Christian School
The Next Chapter: Major in Social Work at Missouri State University. “I want to help kids in foster care who don’t have a voice. I want them to feel loved, safe, and know someone is watching out for them.”
Impact Show-Me had on her Life: “I learned to forgive and love the people who hurt me. I had real control issues that I learned to let go. My biggest challenge was finding self-worth and knowing I am loved, but I know God overcame that for me.”

Name: Jenna Watkins
Years at Show-Me: 6 years
Graduate of: Show-Me Christian School
The Next Chapter: Attend Missouri Southern State University majoring in Early Childhood Education to one day become a Kindergarten teacher and Volleyball coach.
Impact Show-Me had on her Life: “Show-Me really is a family. It is all about family. You have lots of siblings, so you never feel lonely because there is always something going on.”

By |2017-06-03T18:22:18-05:00June 3rd, 2017|Categories: Children, Events, Path to Purpose|

Drysdale Unit Breaks Ground for New Home

On May 7, Show-Me Christian Youth Home (SMCYH) ceremonially started the construction of its new Reed Home at Drysdale Farm in Barnett with approximately 60 in attendance to make the occasion.

The addition of this new home will mark the first major step in expanding the current Drysdale Farm facility into becoming a campus community for the non-profit organization as modeled at the main campus in La Monte, Mo.

SMCYH is a faith-based organization aimed at helping young lives by providing a safe, stable, loving home to young people struggling because of circumstances in their current home environment, according to their mission statement.

“We face a challenge to rescue and restore even more young lives,” explained Director Chad Puckett. “The need exceeds our capacity. The Reed Home is the next opportunity to meet this challenge.”

The Reed Home will serve as a residential home for a new Show-Me family of up to eight children. Located just north of the current house at 19314 Jones Creek Road in Barnett, this second home will be approximately 3,500 square feet and will have six bedrooms.

The main construction will begin this summer and is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2018. Like most of the homes at SMCYH, volunteers will assist in much of the labor.

“Show-Me’s story is our story: one person will tell me about how their church helped to put up the roof, another how they built the porch,” Puckett said. “The Drysdales or Reeds may have set aside the funding and dream, but it takes the whole community before a child can find safety under its roof. ”

The new home is named in honor of Ned and Louise Reed, who donated their property in Camdenton, to start the Camdenton Unit in 1988. Due to the close vicinity of the new highway directly next to the unit, it was closed in 2008. Funds were set aside to establish this new home at Drysdale.

By |2017-06-02T17:50:12-05:00June 2nd, 2017|Categories: Celebration, Children, Events|

2016 Open House Awards

This past Saturday, September 10th, was our Annual Open House. If you didn’t make it, you missed out on a great day! The day was spent catching up with old and new friends, great music, food, family and fun. It was also impressive learning about our kids, and what they are up too in our Leadership U program. But one of the highlights of the day was our chance to honor some very special people.

First, we celebrated this year’s recipients of the Champion for Children award, Pat and Paul Rhoades.

2016 Champion for Children Award

Paul and Pat first heard about Show-Me while attending Southside Christian Church in the 1970’s. When they moved to Westridge Christian Church in Raytown in 1977, their involvement ramped up significantly.

Their Sunday School Class, the Keystone class, attended Annual Meetings at Show-Me every July (in those days, it was outside under a tent in JULY). That class also rallied behind other programs to support Show-Me, and did so faithfully for decades. They started sponsoring children for Christmas, taking special offerings amongst themselves for various needs, and regularly contributed financially, adding much stability to the Show-Me budget.

Chad Puckett, Show Me Christian Youth Home Director, shared this memory. “My first interaction with Paul and Pat, was in response to an SOS we sent out about 15 years ago. Show-Me was running low on meat to feed the families here, so Karen asked me to contact Paul, and his Sunday School classmate, Charlie Wadleigh, to see about getting some ground beef. A quick phone call was all it took, and a few days later they delivered hundreds of pounds of fresh ground beef.”

Paul and Pat organize their church’s participation in the Change for Children Program, coming down to get change cans, distributing them to members of the congregation, gathering them back up and returning them to Show-Me. Since 2009, we can figure that nearly $20,000 has been contributed as a result of Paul and Pat’s diligence and support of this program.

Many years ago, likely over 25, Pat took over the Christmas gifts program at Westridge, organizing her congregation’s response to the needs at Show-Me, making sure each child at Show-Me was sponsored by someone in her congregation to receive Christmas gifts. Many churches do this, but Westridge was one of the first. Pat organizes this each year with passion and efficiency.

Someone had the nerve to mention to Pat one year that the Show-Me kids dress better than some of the children in their church, so why should she give gifts to them. Pat quickly scolded her that the church kids have parents who should take care of their needs; Show-Me kids don’t have parents that can.

Sponsoring children at Christmas is a big deal at Westridge. Early in the Fall, Pat begins preparations. She has several friends contact her directly, making sure she sets aside certain cards for them before they all get snatched up.

It’s always a blessing when we see Paul and Pat drive up to the office. They usually don’t stay longer then their business requires, but they’re sure full of hugs and encouragement in that time span.

Even if you press them to take some credit for all they do for these children, they respond “we really don’t do that much; we just do a little.” Paul said, “We enjoy it! It’s always a joy, never a chore.”

Show-Me is so blessed to have such dedicated supporters as Paul & Pat. We wish we had someone like Paul and Pat Rhoades in every congregation!


Kayla and Casey Jones receiving Overcomer Award

2016 Overcomer Award

We also had the chance to honor this year’s Overcomer Award recipients, Kayla and Casey Jones.

In 2001, Casey arrived at Show-Me with is little brother, Christian. His mother loved her boys dearly, but realized, with the help of her family and friends, that her mental illness prevented her from raising her boys. At 13 years of age, Casey was an excellent student and had some untapped athletic talents that were uncovered continuously as he grew up. Once they joined the Weber family, they had a family for life.

Kayla came from a long history of depression, dependencies, and suicide; her family came together to salvage Kayla from a life of self-destruction and helped her get to Show-Me in 2004 at the age of 13. Kayla joined the Pucketts and eventually adjusted to the responsibilities and advantages of having a stable family. She overcame her academic struggles and found athletic strengths as well.

Casey and Kayla became “High School Sweethearts” and anticipated a future together. Casey graduated from the Show-Me Christian School in 2006 and Kayla in 2008. They joined their lives in marriage shortly after Kayla’s graduation.

Kayla always dreamed of becoming a nurse. With a new marriage and a baby on the way, Kayla launched into nursing school at Lincoln. Casey worked multiple jobs to provide for the family.

Casey and Kayla agree that the biggest advantage of Show-Me to them was the fresh starts they were able to embrace. It’s difficult for a young person to begin the change process when they are trapped in the same environment, influences, and peers. The new families, friends, and structure enabled them to start fresh and build toward a better future.

Both Casey and Kayla were standout-leaders on the athletic teams. Sports helped them overcome the distractions of things going on in their personal lives. They remained focused on being kids, not having to worry about things a teenager shouldn’t have to worry about.

Telling others that they grew up in a youth home left the impression of an institution.   But Casey and Kayla always felt like “one of the family” in their Show-Me homes. Kayla said, “Special people invited me in to be part of their family. We still feel the comforts of “home” when we visit our Show-Me families. It’s still home to us.”

The Jones family now consists of Xavier, Jayda, and Elijah. Kayla is a registered nurse, Casey works with Culligan. They are active in their community and their church. Most importantly, they have broken the cycles from which they each came and lead lives that contribute greatly to our world.

Both of these honorees are very deserving. We are thankful to have the Rhoades and Jones families as a part of our Show-Me family!

By |2016-09-12T22:45:45-05:00September 12th, 2016|Categories: Children, Events|

The 2016 Troy Culler Memorial Basketball Tournament

The NCAA may have it’s March Madness, but church basketball teams in the Midwest will not be left out. The Troy Culler Memorial Basketball Tournament sponsored by Show-Me Christian Youth Home will give players of all ages the opportunity to compete.

This is the 13th year for the tournament held in La Monte, MO at Show-Me Christian Youth Home.  Eight teams from Missouri, Kansas & Iowa compete in a double elimination tournament.

Due to popular demand, Show-Me Christian Youth Home, will hold two tournaments at our main campus in La Monte, Missouri on:

  • Saturday, February 27th
  • Saturday, March 19th.

This tournament started in memory of Troy Culler, a Show-Me’s employee, who died in a car accident in June of 1998.  Troy was an avid sports fan and athlete, having been a member of the Central Missouri State University Mules 1990 MIAA Baseball championship team.  He had run the Show-Me basketball tournament a few times himself.  After his death, Development Director, Phil Marley and Executive Directors, Gale & Karen Culler continued the tournament as a way to honor Troy.

The dedicated teams make a special effort to be a part of this tournament. Forum Christian Church from Columbia, Missouri has played in the Troy Culler Memorial Tournament for over 10 years.   Grinnell Christian Church team members travel all the way from Grinnell, Iowa to get their shot at winning the trophy.

Teams will be seeded by their placement in the tournament last year and then in the order that your $150 tournament donation is received. It is desired that players are associated with the church or ministry for which they are playing. This activity can be an excellent tool to disciple new Christians, but we will rely upon your best judgment in recruiting players.

These tournaments fill up fast so if you are interested, please contact me at 660-909-3294 or judi.crawford@showmekids.org. We look forward to this opportunity to meet the players, their families and fans.

Links:

By |2016-02-08T17:35:56-06:00February 8th, 2016|Categories: Events, Sports|