07/31/2026
What a glorious day this has been!
We are honored to announce our first recipient of the
Kelly Jennings Scholarship Award Ms. Kayla Dunbar.
Kayla Dunbar is a sophomore at WashU in St. Louis studying Biochemistry with plans to attend pharmacy school after graduation. She began volunteering with the Gear Up Afterschool Program in her senior year at Massac County High School through the National Honor Society. She then came to join us for the summer. Kayla said that she volunteers with Gear Up because of the love, joy, laughter, and inspiration that every child here creates. She says that to see them safe, growing, learning, and laughing as they play and praise is one of her greatest joys.
Kayla helped with tutoring, field trips, meals, games, swimming and lots of love for all. Kayla volunteered Monday -Friday 7:30 -4:00 for 8 weeks this summer. She help make a full-time camp a reality this year.
We are grateful to those that gave towards this scholarship it was more than we could’ve hope for and a true blessing.
We are especially thankful that Kelly’s wife Sara and children Brayden, Kylie and Keaton were able to join us today. Your presence meant everything to us.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.”
2 Timothy 4:7-8 ESV
“TILL THE DEATH”
Happy Birthday Brother!
Until we all meet again
Never forgotten 🙏🏼
