The Antioch Cluster recently hosted a Partner Appreciation event at Antioch High School. Seven schools were represented at the gathering, and six of them have United4Hope church partners! Each school gave an overview of the successes that they have seen this year and gave appreciation to their community partners. Two of our United4Hope church partners were awarded Partner of the Year for their chosen schools! What a huge recognition for both Smith Springs Baptist Church with Smith Springs Elementary and Faith Hope Love Fellowship with Thomas Edison Elementary!

Michael Darbouze of Smith Springs Baptist and his lovely wife Jomar were in attendance to receive their recognition as partner of the year.  Not only has Pastor Michael been volunteering to read with students, but his church team also sponsored ten 5^th grade students to attend camp and provided family support by donating a large number of pull-ups and diaper wipes. What a great relationship he and his school liaison, Kate Walker, have in support of the whole community of Smith Springs Elementary School!

Faith Hope Love Fellowship has been a great partner for Thomas Edison Elementary School. The church partnership is led by Marcus Brown who keeps in close contact with his school liaison, Da’Veon Hall. Marcus wasn’t able to attend the recognition event because he was volunteering in a classroom at the time. He has become a classroom helper for two teachers and is loved by all. His church also provides food, water, and hygiene items to the school and helps facilitate workshops for families.

We are so thankful for these two amazing churches who love their schools so well! Pictured below are Jomar Darbouze, Kate Walker, and Michael Darbouze.