By Dr Ferrell Miller
The Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel met at the Zion United Church of Christ in Junction City on March 13. The group was informed about the Magdalene Project and the benefits for educators through AMBA (Association Members Benefits Advisory).
Jodi Mason, who is a former teacher, and currently the Executive Director of the Magdalene Project, found a need for outdoor/equine therapy for veterans at the Warrior’s Ranch. She also had concerns about children who are homeless and the working poor. That is when she came up with the idea of working with not only veterans, the homeless, and the working poor, but others who are temporarily struggling with getting their lives together and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The Magdalene Project, named after Mary Magdalene, who was a prostitute and turned her life around was the inspiration for an organization that shares the philosophy of helping others to “get back on their feet by finding resources for food, shelter, budgeting, mental health assistance and others. Geary County has the highest birth rate in Kansas and the fifth highest in the United States.”
On Sundays from 1:00 to mid-afternoon, a free hot lunch is provided to anyone who needs it and some personal hygiene, fresh vegetables and other items are made available at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Seventh Street. Jodi also does street outreach by going to sites around town where homeless are sheltering themselves. “We serve like a 911 on wheels – like being a teacher – who believes in the beauty and value of all people and in turn helps them see it in themselves.”
Volunteers are often needed to cook, serve clean up and spend some time talking to those facing some of life’s most difficult challenges at this time in their lives. Jodi Mason may be contacted at 785-226-5090.
Samuel Rosenak, AMBA Representative, told JCARSP members that discounts for retired educators are available for travel, medical supplements, dental/vision insurance, emergency helicopter transport and more. “One emergency transport by helicopter may cost as much as $50,000”, he said.
Nita Miller, JCARSP Secretary and Volunteer Hours Coordinator told members that as of December 12, JCARSP members have volunteered 7,636 hours in our community.