Spire Summer 2020

alumni

BC Helpers

During the COVID-19 pandemic, these BC Helpers represented BC’s mission of servant leadership by showing compassion, encouragement, and understanding of their life-callings during uncertain times.

Kelly Thompson Special Education Teacher

Nicole Ayoub Coeburn The Blue Spoon Café

Thompson graduated from BC in 2011 and became a special education teacher at Hurt Park Elementary School in Roanoke, VA. When it was determined that schools would be closed for the remainder of the year, all special education services were changed to telecommunication services. “I met with my students virtually, dropped off work materials to their homes, and consulted with their parents and guardians by phone each week,” said Thompson. “In addition to meeting with my students virtually, I also dropped items off at their homes each week such as groceries, household items, games, etc.” Thompson reflects on a conversation she had one morning with a neighbor. “We briefly talked about the school closure and the needs that some of my students had. Shortly after, my neighbor knocked on my door and handed me an envelope with $30 inside,” said Thompson. “She shared that she had been blessed to still have a job and that she wanted to contribute to my students. I was able to use the money to buy dinner for one family and household items for another. Both families were incredibly grateful, as was I!”

Coeburn graduated from BC in 2012 and reopened the Blue Spoon Café in downtown Bluefield, WV, in 2017. With a growth in business, Coeburn expanded The Blue Spoon Café by adding a coffee shop. Unfortunately, the grand opening of the coffee shop occurred during the same week businesses were shutting down due to the pandemic. “It was an emotional roller coaster with so many uncertainties,” said Coeburn. “There were several times I had to prepare myself to close, thinking it would be mandated or it would be the best decision for safety. Staying strong in my faith, I decided to stay open and adjust to the times. I carefully came up with a plan to offer car-side to go and delivery options for my customers while

following CDC guidelines. They were able to eat a nice meal and we were able to stay in business and keep my employees with jobs.” Coeburn was inspired by the bravery of the front- line workers and wanted to give back in some way. “It started with one customer giving a donation. I posted

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