This week, we received a heartfelt call from someone whose connection to Vashti spans generations—Mrs. Gloria Smith, author of Finntown Girl and a proud former Vashti girl. Gloria and her sisters once lived on our campus as children, and her love for this place has never faded. Later in life, she served on our board, continuing to pour her heart into the mission that shaped her.
Now 85 years young, Gloria recently donated $600 to Vashti: $500 to support our general operations and $100 toward our Chess Gay Book Club Fund—with a very special request. Gloria hopes to provide our youth with copies of Finntown Girl, the story of a young girl named Lori navigating life’s challenges.
“I want the children to read about how Lori overcame challenges in her life,” Gloria said, “so they know if she can do it, so can they.”
You can find her inspiring book on Amazon here: Finntown Girl
Gloria and her husband, an 88-year-old retired Methodist pastor, also invited our youth to visit their peaceful farm between Moultrie and Thomasville—a visit they’ve cherished before and hope to repeat this year.
We are deeply grateful for Gloria’s unwavering support, her generous heart, and her commitment to lifting up the next generation at Vashti. Her legacy reminds us that the love planted here continues to grow, decade after decade.
If you would like to donate towards our mission, give your way!