I have been meaning to write this letter for months, but sometimes we get busy and put things off. However my thoughts weren't meant to be so late, and I apologize for the tardiness.

Some of you may not have the appreciation for Matthew House as directly as my family and I recently had and still have. My Dad stayed there for only eight days, before the Good Lord decided it was his time. But in those eight days, under Wendy Young (the director) and all others who work there, he received the best possible care anyone could ask for - physically, spiritually and emotionally! Some are employees, many are volunteers, but both are equally there by choice - because they care.

I believe I've always had an appreciation for worthwhile organizations and have given to several. Although many cannot afford to give to all organizations, there are other ways you can give and the following is a perfect example.

This past August, I received a phone call saying there was something wonderful going on at Matthew House that morning. It was a sight to see! I was lucky to find parking, as there were many vehicles going in and out, with workers and materials (all volunteers), to build a new deck for Matthew House. It started with an idea from Chris Geherin, who owns and operates Builder's Choice. He wanted to do something special for Matthew House and mentioned it to a few friends. Word spread and before you knew it, it was a done deal.

It started immediately, from the donation of his time and the lumber, to the donation of others with more materials and their time. It seemed natural to follow the lead, wanting to give. They took down the previous small deck and made a much larger one, all in one day! A stainless steel grill and patio set were also donated to this wonderful project. It was a contagious effort by all who participated - a labor of love, to Matthew House and to the community!

Matthew House provided lunch as a token of thanks for such a generous gift, along with their overwhelming hearts, which spoke volumes! Everyone was a winner that day!

I am one of many that just want to add my heartfelt thank you to all those volunteers, for a gift of love!

Kathy Pinckney

Auburn