Prayer Partner Alliance Newsletter
April 2021
From Loretta's Desk
As spring approaches across the world, a sense of renewal and reawakening seems to surface once again. Even at Protected Harbor, we look forward to leaving behind the memories of lockdowns and embracing the thoughts of the greatest of Christian celebrations: Easter.

Our weeks continue to be filled with worship, virtual training classes, sports like softball, equestrian riding, tetherball, basketball and much more. Many of you have already visited our online Wish List (link below) and taken advantage of the ease in meeting a need. Without your faithful support none of this would be possible, therefore I wish to express my deep sense of gratitude to all the prayer partners and supporters, on behalf of residents and staff. You are truly the reason for the joy and love “Behind the Smiles” of our special people.

This month our hearts and homes were blessed with a special outpouring of love as teams from the “Love Naples” project came to both homes to bless us with their time and talents bringing with them muscle, a willingness to serve and smiles. From plumbing to electrical work, carpet cleaning to landscaping, and even window washing, all was done for the glory of God.

In addition, it was a day for rejoicing as the residents participated in events and activities outdoors while being entertained with an impromptu concert on the lake.
We worked, sang, prayed and ate together. What a great God we serve!

"Equip His people for works of service, so that the Body of Christ may be built up.” Ephesians 4:12

We celebrate the many gifts of love that Protected Harbor receives, especially this month as we celebrate Easter and the meaning behind the miracle of resurrection, which is HOPE….Christian hope which delivers confidence in God, in His ultimate triumph and in His goodness and love.
Friend of the Board Spotlight:
Meet Nicholas Ferrao
Nicholas Ferrao has been a valued “Friend of the Board” at Protected Harbor for about two years. He, along with others who also serve in the same capacity, has not only a heart for the special people we serve, but he also enjoys spending time with them getting to know each resident personally.

He understands that our staff must keep detailed records of the training and activities of each member in their care. This is in addition to the overall administrative needs we have in managing the business end of Protected Harbor. Behind the smiles and the day-to-day activities of our residents, Nick works behind the scenes helping to streamline the processes, setting up new computer systems, while troubleshooting others in both homes. In order to contribute positively in achieving these tasks, it is impossible to calculate the number of volunteer hours he has contributed.

Nick’s heartfelt care and generous spirit are a direct result of his observing and being able to internalize his parents’ words and actions. His mother, Tanya Croy is a former teacher and has been an active board member for over three years at Protected Harbor. His father and stepmother, Aubrey and Tina Ferrao have also supported local organizations for decades. In addition to their generous financial support of Protected Harbor, Tina has served on the board of the Boys and Girls Club and currently serves on the board of Community Pregnancy Clinics.
Behind the Smiles: Meet Kimber
Kimber is a well-rounded young woman who is a helper, a joker, a worker and a learner with a creative and intuitive mind.

She is a woman always on a mission who loves to say; “I have a question”. What then follows is a conversation that may either lead to new insight or to explosive laughter as she uses her quick wit to turn the question into a joke. Asking questions has had the benefit of turning her into an encyclopedia of knowledge for household tips and she puts these into practice whenever possible.

When Kimber joins her housemates at McGregor Baptist Church’s food ministry, she contributes happily and efficiently. Because of the life skills training Kimber receives at Protected Harbor, the staff at McGregor appreciates her knowledge around the kitchen and her readiness and willingness to help with any chore.
We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from our donors.  In response to the many calls we receive asking how you can help, we are launching our new Online Wish List.  Click the Contribution link on the right for a current list of items needed and desired for the homes.  Items are shipped directly to us making it even easier for those wishing to lend an extra hand of support. Visit our registry today!
Thank You to Our Supporters
A very special thank you to The Rotary Club of Fort Myers for their generous commitment to the health and wellbeing of our residents. They have invested in “”Special Strong Wellness Workout Classes and equipment for our residents.

We are very grateful for the Marco Lutheran Church Foundation who is investing in life skill training materials and curriculum to help enrich the lives of our residents as they stive to live their best lives.

We were also blessed to have Swinging with Purpose fund outdoor activity centers at both of our homes. From Life Size Jenga, to Putt Putt and Disc Golf we are up, outside and moving again thanks to their support. 
Our Mission, Our Vision, Your Support
Our Mission
The mission of Protected Harbor is to develop and operate supportive housing, enhanced with Christian care, for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Our Vision
Our vision is that adults that want and need the Protected Harbor model for Christian care homes will have a home with Protected Harbor.

Support Our Work
We believe that God calls each of us for a very special purpose. The work He has called us to is a ministry that we embrace with our whole hearts. If you feel that God is calling you to support this special work, please consider making a contribution. 
PROTECTED HARBOR INC. IS A 501(c)(3) NON-PROFIT CORPORATION. DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION (CH14174) AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE OR BY VISITING WWW.FLORIDACONSUMERHELP.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.