February 26, 2026
I wouldn’t ever claim to be a writer, but I do like to write. Usually. So when, three years ago, Ann approached us about the idea of a Poem-a-Thon, I was intrigued by the idea. Raising money for City of Refuge through our words? It felt powerful. Purposeful. We were all in. We still are.
We’re launching Poem-a-Thon 3.0 today. Basically, anyone from anywhere can sign up – it’s fairly simple. Commit to writing once a day for thirty days during the month of April and find some sponsors to support you. All donations go to City of Refuge to help sustain our services and programs.
Write for THIRTY DAYS? You may be scoffing at me, incredulous at the suggestion. It’s really not bad, but it does cost you something: a little time. And maybe harder than that, a little of your soul. In all the best ways. Oh, and telling folks you’re doing it and asking for their support. That takes a bit of vulnerability and courage. Easy, right?
I’ve been re-reading some of the poems I wrote over the last few years during the Poem-a-Thon. Remind you: I’m not a “writer” and I’d certainly never self-identify as a “poet”. But the work was powerful. Transformative. Putting words to thoughts and feelings…words and expressions that might otherwise exist in a black hole until we take the time to draw them out.
Are you angry? Write.
Are you grateful? Write.
Are you happy? Sad? Confused? Fearful? Write.
Your poetry doesn’t have to be for anyone but you. But it also can be shared.
AND on top of that, it’s a way to use your voice – your words – to actually help refugees from all over the world living in mid-Missouri. In a time when so many want to know what they can do to help – now may be the perfect time to pick up your pen and write.
I’ll leave you with one of poems I wrote last year as you contemplate whether to accept the challenge. Join us. I promise you won’t regret it.
Ready or not…
Here it comes.
A baby, an illness, a death, a dream job.
Life.
Ready, or not.
An illusion of control
The mirage of choice.
But I didn’t choose much.
Not where or when I was born.
The family I was given.
The hair that grows.
The color of my skin.
The health of my soul.
We work with the hand we are dealt.
Ready, or not.
This moment is one chance we will get.
Choices within the frame work
Of the lives we are built in.
Good, bad, ugly, hard, laughter.
Choices of how we respond to our unchosen circumstances
Free will in how we act
Despite what happens to us.
Ready, or not.
Debbie Beal
Executive Director
Poem-A-Thon Registration Open!
This April, join City of Refuge for Poem-a-Thon: a 30-day writing challenge that turns creativity into compassion.
We’re inviting you to write something every day for 30 days. A poem. A paragraph. A few honest lines. Through language, culture, story, identity, and resilience, we’ll explore the healing power of putting words to the human experience — and use those words to stand alongside our refugee neighbors in Mid-Missouri.
Participants set a fundraising goal and invite others to sponsor them, raising support and awareness that isn’t limited by geographic location!
Rye Berry Patch Bakery
Order delicious made from scratch breads, buns, sweets, and more now through Tuesday 3/3, to pick up on Friday 3/6 at City Boutique.
Olena is the talented baker and heart behind the Rye Berry Patch Bakery, where she specializes in crafting delicious sourdough breads and sweet treats. A devoted mother of four, Olena brings the warmth of her Ukrainian heritage to every recipe, particularly her own cherished sourdough starter.
Her signature buns are featured on the menu of City Cuisine, where she occasionally hosts breakfast pop-up events.
Shop & Support!
Every purchase made at City Boutique goes directly to supporting City of Refuge’s programs and services for refugees.
Not only can you find City of Refuge merchandise (like our new 20oz to-go tumblers pictured to the left), but you’ll find selected thrift clothing, handmade gifts made by Global Artisans, unique housewares, and much more!
Stop by City Boutique Monday-Friday 9am-4pm to see for yourself, or check out our online store!
