It is my privilege to partner with Dr. Morton for these past six years. Dr. Morton’s passion for education has gone beyond her position as Dean of the School of Education (retired) at Concordia University Irvine. For six years she has wholeheartedly committed to serving the children at Orange County Rescue Mission’s Village of Hope. Dr. Morton is well deserving of the special acknowledgment and appreciation she received at last week’s Orange County Rescue Mission’s Summer Graduation ceremony.

While volunteering at the Concordia Learning Center at Village of Hope, Dr. Morton became concerned about how the school age children would spend their summer days while their parents were at their work assignments. Through Dr. Morton’s vision and expertise, Village of Hope’s “Summer to Remember” program for children was created.

Now in its sixth year, the Summer to Remember program goes above and beyond in providing the additional support and services that homeless kids need to improve their academic skills, and be better prepared for the next school year. “Learning is fun” is the theme for this 9 week, full day program. While time is spent each day with reading and math practice, the focus is to get kids involved in hands on learning activities and experiences, including trips to Concordia University, field trips and some days of swimming added in for good exercise and skill building.

Summer to Remember gives opportunities to homeless children they would otherwise never experience, opportunities they need to grow in intellect and skills. Donors and volunteers help to make Summer to Remember possible.