Expanded Paul Anderson Bike Ride Travels More Miles Than Ever to Raise Funds and Honor the Founder of Paul Anderson Youth Home

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The 18th annual long-distance ride stretches to seven days from Georgia to Florida and back, affirming the five young men’s physical, mental, and spiritual transformation.

(SOUTHEAST Ga./CENTRAL Fla.Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH), a fully accredited and licensed program dedicated to offering help to young men facing serious trouble or incarceration, is holding its 18th Annual Paul Anderson Bike Ride on Saturday, July 8, through Friday, July 14.

Expanded from five to seven days this year, five young men from the Home are set to cover more than 520 miles on an ambitious route that begins at the PAYH campus in Vidalia, Ga.

For nearly two decades, the Paul Anderson Bike Ride has commemorated a foundational moment in the history of the Paul Anderson Youth Home. At its founding in 1961, the former Olympic gold-medal winner decided to ride a bicycle from Vidalia, Ga., 1,200 miles to Omaha, Ne. His motivation then was the same as the five young men share today: to raise funds and awareness of the mission to give troubled young men a second chance through Christ. More than 60 years later, PAYH celebrates over 1,400 lives changed through a process of recovery, restoration, and redemption.

“Paul was an incredibly determined man, so when he decided to ride a bike 1,200 miles to Omaha, I felt it was Christ working through him. All these years later, I get the same feeling when these strong young men take to the road, keeping Paul’s legacy of faith and fitness alive,” said Glenda Anderson Leonard, Co-Founder and President of PAYH.

The five riders, like all other young men at PAYH, have been working to overcome a range of challenges, including emotional issues, substance abuse, legal trouble and spiritual deficiencies. The physical challenge of riding more than 520 miles over the course of seven days exemplifies their newfound mental strength and physical fitness, essential elements of the PAYH program. They also honor God through their transformation and achievement. Additionally, riders are sponsored by donors to raise funds for the youth home.

“It takes character to volunteer for this ride, because it is not easy. This endeavor honors the young men’s commitment to changing their lives, accepting the Lord’s word, and the memory of Paul, who was such a gifted athlete,” added Anderson Leonard.

The funds raised allow PAYH to more effectively carry out its mission of helping troubled youth. Supporters can meet the riders, contribute to their success, and become a part of the PAYH family at payhbikeride.com.
To learn more about the Paul Anderson Youth Home and family resources, visit payh.org.

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME
Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion and Olympic gold medalist Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program, with an on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling in the areas of behavioral problems, and issues of discipline, anger, and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
Cecilia Russo Marketing
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075

Paul Anderson Golf Classic Celebrates 30 Years 

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Enduring golf tournament at the acclaimed River Golf Club in North Augusta, S.C., marked the occasion of three decades of generous giving and philanthropy receiving a $75,000 donation

(GEORGIA, US) Paul Anderson Youth Home, a fully accredited and licensed home offering a second chance to young men in crisis, celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Paul Anderson Golf Classic at The River Golf Club in North Augusta, S.C.

Anderson family poses for a photo. (L to R) Spencer Schaefer, Garland Schaefer, Glenda Anderson, Paula Anderson, Edward Schaefer

To date, the Paul Anderson Golf Classic tournament has been one of the Home’s largest annual fundraisers in helping to raise an astonishing $7 million benefiting young men battling behavioral issues and mental health struggles – giving them hope for recovery and redemption. At the tournament, sponsors had a chance to make this their most meaningful contribution yet. FMEC (Forest Ecosystem Monitoring Cooperative) did so with a $75,000 check presentation.

“In Augusta, the ‘golf capital of the world,’ we marked a momentous milestone – 30 years together for this remarkable golf tournament,” said Glenda Anderson Leonard, president and co-founder of Paul Anderson Youth Home. “This special event comes right on the heels of our Home’s 60th anniversary, which highlights our mission to provide young men and boys with a chance at success through Christ’s teachings. Don’t miss out on an incredible day making meaningful connections that will help give those in crisis hope for tomorrow.”

For three decades, the Paul Anderson Golf Classic has served as a major source of financial support for the Paul Anderson Youth Home, a Christian residential facility catering to adolescent men from ages 16 to 21. All proceeds benefit teens in need who are having difficulty handling behavioral problems, such as anger and depression management.

The location of the event was a strong attraction to golf enthusiasts in the Southeast. The River Golf Club, named a Top 5 New Course by Golf Digest, has established itself as one of the best course designs in the region since opening in 1998. Designed by internationally acclaimed golf course architect Jim Fazio, the North Augusta course is set on the banks of the Savannah River, across from downtown Augusta.

Chick-fil-A breakfast was available and lunch was served on the course by Papa Buck’s.
“We can’t thank our longtime sponsors enough,” added Anderson Leonard. “Our corporate sponsor, Publix Super Markets Charities, has donated nearly $900,000 over the years, participating in every Paul Anderson Golf Classic since we started. We were excited to have Woody Folsom as this year’s hole in one sponsor, and we’d love to add to our sponsor list because donations are so essential to what we do.”

To sponsor a team or donate to Paul Anderson Youth Home, visit www.payh.org/golf.

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME
Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075

Paul Anderson Youth Home Hosts Christmas Family Extravaganza on Dec. 2

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The Christ-centered youth home’s annual Christmas celebration raises funds, awareness and spirits.

(VIDALIA, GA) Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH), a fully accredited and licensed residential program and on-campus school offering a second chance to young men in crisis, held their annual Christmas concert event and party on Dec. 2, at the First Baptist Church of Vidalia

“During this Christmas season, our annual event that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and our continued celebration of God’s goodness and grace,” said Glenda Anderson Leonard, co-founder of PAYH. “We are both excited and amazed at how God’s faithfulness has brought us to the significant milestone of our 60th anniversary!”

The festive event included musical selections from Vidalia Heritage Academy and a variety of local musicians and young men from the Home, Christmas carols sung by the crowd, and more. The always exemplary Rev. Don Moye of First Baptist Church Vidalia led the production.

“This program is a spectacular gala celebration of Christmas for families, the boys, for the community to come out and voice their support and presence for Paul Anderson Youth Home,” said Moye.A “Jingle Mingle” was held before the main program featuring a tempting assortment of exquisite, delectable Christmas goodies and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

At PAYH, the endless distractions and commercialization of Christmas are put on pause. Instead, the Home celebrates the birth of Christ, slowing down the hectic nature of the season to allow a focus on its true meaning. The Christmas Family Extravaganza finds that balance of celebrating God’s gifts and having fun while supporting such a worthy cause.

“It was a night of miraculous wonder as we celebrate the start of the Christmas season,” said Anderson Leonard. “This event was a fantastic opportunity for our community to invest in the kingdom of God and the lives of these gentlemen through the ministry of Paul Anderson Youth Home.”

As we gather to celebrate this Christmas season, PAYH asks everyone to keep an open ear and open heart to spread the word about the program and connect them with the families of young men struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. Through their spiritual counseling, character development, and accelerated learning program, they share Christ with these young men. Their Christmas Extravaganza is one of the many celebrations held throughout the year to honor this important work.

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOMEFounded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion and Olympic gold medalist Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Cognia. In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
Cecilia Russo Marketing
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075

Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia, Ga., Begins 60th Anniversary Year with Opening Ceremony

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Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia, Ga., Begins 60th Anniversary Year with Opening Ceremony
Candlelight Event Honored Six Distinguished Alumni as Gold Medalists for Life

(VIDALIA, Ga.) The Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia celebrated the beginning of its 60th anniversary year with an opening ceremony on campus at 1603 McIntosh Street. This intimate, private event featured an Olympic torch from the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games celebration that literally passed from one generation to the next. Attendees were given candles lit by this historical torch to honor the Home‘s 60 years of transforming the lives of troubled youth.

Glenda Anderson Leonard, the Home’s matriarch, with the current class of boys

Glenda Anderson Leonard, the Home‘s matriarch who continues to be actively engaged, recently turned 80 years old. She has been a mother figure to “her boys” and, along with staff, is instrumental in leading young men to Christ and changing their lives forever. Anderson Leonard passed the torch to her daughter and son-in-law, Paula and Edward Schaefer, to lead the Home into the future.

A proclamation from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp was read at the event, and guests were treated to musical selections from renowned Savannah soloist Roger Moss.

At the celebratory event, the victories of six PAYH alumni who have become champions in their own lives, for themselves and their families, were celebrated. Strong men of integrity and resolve with a foundation of traditional Christian values are the hallmarks of PAYH graduates, and these six men were each honored for being “Gold Medalists for Life.” They received medals during the ceremony on the historic grounds of the Home.

The Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia
The Paul Anderson Youth Home in Vidalia celebrated its 60th year with an Olympic Torch from the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games

The founder of the Home, Paul Anderson, overcame Bright’s Disease to win the super heavyweight gold medal in weightlifting at the 1956 Melbourne Olympic games. To this day, no one has matched or exceeded his record back lift of 6,270 lb.

Paul Anderson left the Olympics with a dream in his heart to help his fellow man. In 1961, Paul rode a bicycle from Vidalia, Georgia to Omaha, NE, to raise money to start a youth home. Shortly after, he and his wife Glenda founded the Home, a Christian alternative to juvenile and adult correctional programs for struggling young men between the ages of 16-21.

Sixty years and more than 1,400 individuals later, the Home and ministry continue to transform lives each day by helping young men turn away from incarceration and towards God. Each young man in PAYH‘s care receives counseling, academic assistance to complete their education, job training and substance abuse therapy.

“As PAYH celebrates its 60th anniversary, this event was an opportunity to look back on the profound impact the Home has had on the lives of young men and their families,” said Anderson Leonard. “We were also proud to honor our alumni who have had an immeasurable positive effect on our society.”

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME
Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion and Olympic gold medalist Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Cognia. In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
Cecilia Russo Marketing
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075

Chick-fil-A Vidalia Announces its 6th Annual Road Race Benefiting the Paul Anderson Youth Home and WinShape Camps

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Locally Owned Chick-fil-A Hosts 10K, 5K and 1 Mile Races to Support Community Nonprofit Ministry Organizations

(VIDALIA, Ga.) The public is invited to participate in the 6th Annual Chick-fil-A Vidalia Road Race on Saturday morning, March 6. The event will include three races of varying lengths, 10K, 5K and 1 mile, with all proceeds benefiting Paul Anderson Youth Home and WinShape Camps for Communities.  

The Paul Anderson Youth Home is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. WinShape Camps for Communities is a professional organization that exists to impact young people through experiences that enhance their Christian faith, character and relationships. 
“We are so grateful for the many volunteers, racers, sponsors, and Chick-fil-A Vidalia who are all so eager to support and participate with us to make this such a highlight each year,” said Glenda Anderson, co-founder of Paul Anderson Youth Home

Early registration and packet pick-up will occur from 4–7 p.m. on Friday, March 5, at Chick-fil-A Vidalia, located at 2349 E. First St., Vidalia, GA. Race-day registration will begin at 7 a.m., Saturday, March 6, with the 5 and 10K races beginning at 8 a.m. and the 1 mile at 9 a.m. COVID-19 precautions will be in place throughout the event. 
“We may provide the route, t-shirts and snacks, but the Vidalia community looks forward to this event every year, and they bring the positive energy that takes this race to the next level,” said Britt McDade, restaurant operator of Chick-fil-A Vidalia. “It is so rewarding to see people come together in support of two phenomenal ministry organizations, and we happily plan to continue our partnership with the Paul Anderson Youth Home and WinShape Camps for Communities for many years to come.”

Registration for the 1 mile and 5K races is $30 per person until Sunday, Feb. 21, and $35 on race day. The 10K race is $35 per individual until Sunday, Feb. 21, and $40 on race day. For more information on registration and team sign-ups, visit runvidalia.com.
The race is made possible by the support of generous sponsors. Sponsors include Altamaha Bank & Trust, Pineland Telephone Cooperative, Spivey Orthopedic Clinic, Zorn & Son Insurance, David Sikes, Toombs County Commission Chairman, Smile Doctors Braces, Altamaha EMC, Brewton-Parker College, Canoochee EMC, Chapman Pharmacy, Nathan and Courtney Perkins, Progressive Landscape & Irrigation and Woody Folsom Auto Group

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME
Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

ABOUT WINSHAPE CAMPS FOR COMMUNITIES
WinShape Camps for Communities is a professional organization that exists to impact young people through experiences that will enhance their Christian faith, character and relationships. Being supported by local churches and faith-based organizations, campers from Kindergarten through 9th grade attend a week-long day camp experience in over 70 communities throughout the nation. Whether your kids like soccer or science, there is something for everyone. WinShape Camps for Communities combines sports, recreation, arts, bible study, and worship into one unforgettable week. For more information, visit https://camps.winshape.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
Cecilia Russo Marketing
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075

Paul Anderson Youth Home Earns Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities

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CARF approval underscores the high standards of the Christ-centered youth home.

(VIDALIA, GA) Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) announced they have received a three-year accreditation by CARF, an independent nonprofit organization focused on advancing the quality of services needed for the best possible results.

“We are thrilled to receive this international accreditation as it earnestly demonstrates to our families we serve, our stakeholders, and other organizations that we not only meet but exceed the industry standards,” said PAYH Vice President for Outreach and Compliance Betty Burris. Attaining this prestigious recognition is an organization-wide effort with all departments playing an important role. Burris spent the better part of two months working on it. “It shows we are committed to continually reviewing and improving our services,” she added.

CARF accreditation is based on compliance with industry standards for group homes and rehabilitation facilities. It also equips PAYH to better serve the young men in their care. Developed over 50 years ago by international service providers, policymakers, family members and consumers, CARF standards are submitted to the public for review to validate relevancy and ensure valuable input from all participants.

Among the many strengths noted in CARF’s findings are the vision and dedication of co-founder and Executive Director Glenda Anderson Leonard, described in the report as, “a dedicated, compassionate person who made a personal commitment years ago to better serve young men who were in need of a Christian approach to treatment.”

The CARF report also cited the leadership of the board of directors and the staff as, “committed, creative, and innovative; actively seeking and embracing new ideas, and demonstrating a willingness to develop and enhance the organization’s existing services.”

According to the findings, the young men served by PAYH also reported a high level of satisfaction with the program and the respect they receive in the program.

Paul Anderson Youth Home, Vidalia Georgia, accredited and licensed home offering a second chance to young men in crisis

PAYH is also accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) for fiscal transparency, Cognia for high school diploma standards, and is licensed by the Georgia Department of Human Services.

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME
Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
Cecilia Russo Marketing
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075

Paul Anderson Youth Home 2020 Christmas Family Extravaganza

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Paul Anderson Youth Home 2020 Christmas Family Extravaganza

The Christ-centered youth home’s annual Christmas celebration raises funds, awareness and spirits.

(VIDALIA, GA) Paul Anderson Youth Home, a fully accredited and licensed home offering a second chance to young men in crisis, held their annual Christmas party at the First Baptist Church of Vidalia. In order to comply with changes due to the pandemic, the event was unlike the traditional dinner theater show. This year the evening began with a “Jingle Mingle” featuring delectable Christmas goodies and heavy hors d’oeuvres, followed by a lineup of singers, musicians, a jazz ensemble, youth choir and more.

Paul Anderson Youth Home 2020 Christmas Family Extravaganza
The boys of Paul Anderson Youth Home sing together at the Christmas Extravaganza.

“Our 17th annual Christmas celebration promised to be different, with a new and exciting program of entertainment,” said Glenda Anderson, Co-founder of Paul Anderson Youth Home. “And while we are excited to celebrate the Holy season, we couldn’t wait to share the mission of our ministry and remind our local community about the important work we have been doing for nearly 60 years,” she added.

Paul Anderson Youth Home staff members Eileen Whitfield (Right) and Steven Richardson (Left) perform together at the Christmas Extravaganza.
Paul Anderson Youth Home staff members Eileen Whitfield (Right) and Steven Richardson (Left) perform together at the Christmas Extravaganza.

At Paul Anderson Youth Home, the endless distractions and commercialization of Christmas are put on pause. Instead, the home celebrates the birth of Christ, slowing down the hectic nature of the season to allow a focus on its true meaning. The Christmas Family Extravaganza finds that balance of celebrating God’s gifts and having fun while supporting such a worthy cause.

The Vidalia Heritage Children’s Choir sing for guests at the Christmas Extravaganza.

Rev. Don Moye of First Baptist Church Vidalia curated the evening’s entertainment. Matthew Kersey, Minister of Music and Worship at Grace Community Presbyterian Church and Jeff McCormick, headmaster at Vidalia Heritage Academy, emceed the show. Performance acts included Bill Torrance as “Uncle Gus”, a piano duet with Marshia Pierce and Kathy Rogers, the Williams Family Trio, PAYH staff members Eileen Whitfield and Steven Richardson, and the Vidalia Heritage Children’s Choir. The evening closed with a special performance by members of the PAYH staff and young men.

“Uncle Gus” and a young man from the Paul Anderson Youth Home perform together at the Christmas Extravaganza.
“Uncle Gus” and a young man from the Paul Anderson Youth Home perform together at the Christmas Extravaganza.

As we gather together to celebrate this Christmas season, we are asking everyone to keep an open ear and open heart to spread the word about the Paul Anderson Youth Home and connect us with the families of young men who are struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger, and depression. Through our spiritual counseling, character development, and accelerated learning program, we share Christ with these young men. He is the one who transforms their lives for eternity. Our Christmas Extravaganza is one of the many celebrations held throughout the year to celebrate this important work.

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME

Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call 912- 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT

Cynthia Cradduck

Cecilia Russo Marketing

cynthia@crussomarketing.com 

912-856-9075 

Paul Anderson Youth Home Invites the Public to its Christmas Family Extravaganza

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Paul Anderson Youth Home Invites the Public to its Christmas Family Extravaganza

The Christ-centered youth home’s annual Christmas celebration raises funds, awareness and spirits.

(VIDALIA, GA) Paul Anderson Youth Home, a fully accredited and licensed home offering a second chance to young men in crisis, will hold their annual Christmas party at 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4. In order to comply with changes due to the pandemic, the event will be unlike the traditional dinner theater show. This year the evening begins with a “Jingle Mingle” featuring delectable Christmas goodies and heavy hors d’oeuvres, followed by a lineup of singers, musicians, a jazz ensemble, youth choir and more.

“Our 17th annual Christmas celebration promises to be different, with a new and exciting program of entertainment,” said Glenda Anderson, Co-founder of Paul Anderson Youth Home. “And while we are excited to celebrate the Holy season, we can’t wait to share the mission of our ministry and remind our local community about the important work we have been doing for nearly 60 years,” she added.

At Paul Anderson Youth Home, the endless distractions and commercialization of Christmas are put on pause. Instead, the home celebrates the birth of Christ, slowing down the hectic nature of the season to allow a focus on its true meaning. The Christmas Family Extravaganza finds that balance of celebrating God’s gifts and having fun while supporting such a worthy cause.

General admission is $25 for adults and $15 for children 12 and under, and several sponsorships and gifting options are available. Details can be found at payh.org/christmas.

Rev. Don Moye of First Baptist Church Vidalia curated the evening’s entertainment. Matthew Kersey, Minister of Music and Worship at Grace Community Presbyterian Church and Jeff McCormick, headmaster at Vidalia Heritage Academy, will emcee the show. Acts scheduled to perform are Bill Torrance as “Uncle Gus”, a piano duet with Marshia Pierce and Kathy Rogers, the Williams Family Trio, PAYH staff members Eileen Whitfield and Steven Richardson, and the Vidalia Heritage Children’s Choir. The evening will close with a special performance by members of the PAYH staff and young men.

As we gather together to celebrate this Christmas season, we are asking everyone to keep an open ear and open heart to spread the word about the Paul Anderson Youth Home and connect us with the families of young men who are struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger, and depression. Through our spiritual counseling, character development, and accelerated learning program, we share Christ with these young men. He is the one who transforms their lives for eternity. Our Christmas Extravaganza is one of the many celebrations held throughout the year to celebrate this important work.

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME
Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
Cecilia Russo Marketing
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075

Paul Anderson Youth Home Honors Founders’ Memory and Heritage

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Paul Anderson Youth Home Honors Founders’ Memory and Heritage
“The World’s Strongest Man” remembered for a foundation of faith during Founders’ Day celebration

(VIDALIA, GA) The staff and boys of the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) took a break from their schoolwork and daily routine to honor the legacy of Olympic gold medalist weightlifter Paul Anderson and to celebrate his and Glenda’s obedience to our Heavenly Father’s calling on their lives, to work with young men who made poor decisions and began a downward spiral.

Founded in 1961, PAYH is a Christian residential program and on-campus school dedicated to providing an alternative home setting and a positive opportunity for struggling young men between the ages of 16 and 21.

Held each October to commemorate Paul’s birthday, Founders’ Day is centered on prayer, feats of strength and group cooperation. A morning of prayer on the knoll where Anderson is buried was followed by an 11 a.m. brunch. In the afternoon, the young men split into teams for the physical activities.

Dubbed “The World’s Strongest Man,” Paul Anderson was as strong in faith as he was in body. He founded PAYH with his wife, Glenda Anderson, who continues to serve as President. They envisioned a Christ-centered residential refuge for young men with behavioral problems struggling with issues of discipline, substance abuse, anger and depression. To date, over 1,400 young men who have attended the accelerated learning, technical training and counseling program serve as testaments to the institution’s success.

“Each year this celebration reminds us of the bedrock we stand upon,” said Glenda Anderson. “Prayer was essential to Paul’s journey and to saving the lives of our boys. With the Home’s 60th anniversary just around the corner, our duty to Paul, and to the young men we serve, is to ensure it remains so.”

With a theme of rejuvenation, this year the young men were allowed to sleep in a bit before praying for the home’s residents, staff, families, devoted philanthropic partners, those affected by the coronavirus and the future of our world.

Following the service, the young men learned more about the history of PAYH from Eddie Burris, a former resident now serving as Director of Plant Operations. Along with his wife Betty, Vice President of Outreach and Compliance, they have worked at the home for over 50 years. After a mid-day meal, the day concluded with logrolling races, hurling weights and carrying stacks of bricks to spell out words.”There is nothing so restorative as prayer, reflection and physical activity,” said Glenda. “This is exactly how Paul would have wanted to be remembered.” 

ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME
Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program and on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling with behavioral problems and issues of discipline, anger and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Cynthia Cradduck
Cecilia Russo Marketing
cynthia@crussomarketing.com
912-856-9075