06/20/2026
The Man in the Blue Hat
As we continue celebrating Bethany Center's 25th anniversary year, we want to take a moment to recognize the countless individuals who have supported this outreach over the years.
In the early days, our founder, Wilma Earls, kept a daily journal. An entry might read something like:
"Went to chapel. Arrived at the center at 9:00 a.m. Turned off the alarm. "So and so" was getting the coffee ready. Set out the casseroles. A man in a blue hat dropped off a bag of groceries. A lady in a silver van donated some clothing."
If you've spent any time around Bethany Center, you know exactly what that means. Someone would ask, "Who dropped this off?" and the answer would be, "A man in a blue hat," or "A lady in a silver van."
Those simple descriptions represent thousands of people over the last 25 years.
Recently, we've been recognizing our local churches, community partners, and corporate sponsors. Their support is vital, and we are grateful for each one. But today we want to acknowledge the individuals who are too numerous to name.
The people who show up with a bag of groceries. The family that organizes a food drive. The person who drops off clothing they no longer need. The donor who sends $20 to help a neighbor. The volunteer who spends a morning sorting clothing, serving a meal, stocking shelves, or helping with a project. The person who sees a need and simply responds.
These individuals are woven into the story of Bethany Center. They are part of what has made 25 years of outreach possible. Their kindness, generosity, and willingness to help—often in small ways that add up over time—have touched thousands of lives.
For 25 years, people like the man in the blue hat and the lady in the silver van have helped our neighbors know they are loved.
Thank you for your tremendous support.
Many Hands. One Purpose. Serving our neighbors with love.
