Hope Community of Shalom, Inc
Clopton left physical therapy for neighborhood therapy
Kate Hutson
After 25 years of helping kids with physical
disabilities strive for their dreams,
Not exactly.
Having retired as a physical therapy professor at Texas
Tech's
Hope/Shalom is a neighborhood ministry of the
Based on a national program, Hope/Shalom is the brainchild of Asbury's members. Clopton began as a supporter of the program, then became
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| Clopton |
She says she's good at working with parents and
overseeing the logistics but terrible at corralling groups of kids. So she
lets those who have that gift handle crowd control. Clopton is content to
raise money and get the toilets fixed.
This behind-the-scenes work enables all the activities
at Hope. On some weekdays, there's the action-learning-packed after-school
program led by Esther Moses (but more about her work next column).
On any day you might see learners in the Lighthouse, a
room with computers for English-as-second-language, literacy and GED
training. These are two of a dozen different opportunities housed in the
church's facilities.
Then, there's the Loaves and Fishes food and clothes
pantry. Every Sunday, doors open to those who want to have a meal, pick up
needed clothing, and if they desire, attend a service just for them.
On a tour, you can see rooms decorated for everything
from arts and crafts to dance and wilderness experiences. Children and teens
who come here may not find flashy electronics, but they will get personal,
educational and social support.
Another room provides space and assistance for parents
who require supervised visitation with their families but who can't afford
to pay for it themselves.
Clopton says the center needs volunteers and financial
support. It is sponsored by 10 community groups and by individual donations.
To contact Hope/Shalom, call 806-762-0829.
When asked why she feels called to this work, Clopton
says it was like God put a hand on her shoulder. She says "the job just
fit." While soft-spoken and reserved, her eyes brim as she talks about it.
Maybe she's chasing her dream after all.
