Even though The Parkesburg POINT'S virtual silent auction fundraiser is over, people can still make a donation and enjoy watching executive director Dwayne Walton's Zoom conversation with sports celebrity Tim Tebow.
Tebow, a Heisman Trophy winner and former National Football League player, was the featured speaker at The POINT's fall fundraiser in October 2019.
"We had not scheduled a speaker (for the fall 2020 fundraiser), but when COVID hit, we thought, 'Why not do a follow-up with him?'" said Walton. "He was open to it and really believes in what we were doing."
The video includes a statement by Larry Beaver, The POINT's chairman of the board, followed by Walton's one-on-one virtual talk with Tebow.
Topics include how COVID-19 has impacted Tebow's life, his work with the Tim Tebow Foundation and the importance of faith, especially during the pandemic. There are some humorous exchanges as well between Walton and Tebow that revolve around various topics, including the Philadelphia Eagles, where Tebow was briefly on the roster.
To view the video, readers may visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/ivG. The video is also available for viewing at http://www.facebook.com/parkesburg.point.
Walton noted that Tebow has facilitated a partnership between The POINT and his foundation. "They are really impressed with The POINT and our ministry with young people," he said.
Because of COVID-19, The POINT was closed in the spring and summer, but it continued to serve the community by distributing free food in conjunction with the Octorara Area School District's Grab and Go Meal program, which included a boxed breakfast and lunch for students in need. The POINT also offered online programming.
In September, the building, located at 700 Main St., Parkesburg, reopened to coincide with the beginning of the school year. "When school opened virtually, we increased our Wi-Fi bandwidth and speed so students could come and have a safe place do their schoolwork and keep social distancing," Walton explained, noting that staffing was increased to accommodate the students.
The POINT opened for limited after-school programming for the first time on Oct. 26 for registered students ages 8 to 18. "We transitioned back to the after-school program when high school students were allowed back on campus," Walton said. "The kids needed it so much. They were so happy and elated to be back and to see familiar faces and take part in activities and sports. It has been hard on them mentally and emotionally. We (really wanted to make) them feel good (to be back)."
To donate to The POINT as part of the fall fundraiser, readers may visit http://www.parkesburgpoint.com and choose the Donate button.
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