Black Mountain Home worker best in nation

Building and grounds coordinator Rodney Ogle enjoys plenty of variety in his work at Black Mountain Home for Children, Youth & Families. While he technically oversees the ministry’s facilities and maintenance, his days also include activities like:

• Rounding up an escaped goat that’s in the community garden
• Accompanying youth on a working retreat in Arkansas - in August
• Teaching youth tasks like how to assemble a bunk bed or change a tire
• Serving as instructor in the ministry’s minibike incentive program
• Listening to, comforting, and being part of dozens of children’s support system.

Recently, Ogle was recognized for the way he goes above and beyond in his daily work by the Association of Christian Childcare Administrators. Ogle, selected from nominees across the nation, was the 2015 recipient of the ACCA Award for Excellence recognizing an outstanding staff member who provides essential services.

“Our staff, across the board, are outstanding. I believe each one feels called to this ministry and works hard to make a positive difference in the lives of our children,” said BMH president Tom Campbell. “Seeing Rodney recognized for exhibiting that level of excellence and passion is deeply gratifying.”

While this is Ogle’s first national award, he was named BMH administrative staff person of the year in 2011 by his co-workers who wrote “He’s always teaching the youth and shares his faith while working with the youth and staff.”

They also write “Rodney demonstrates hard work to the youth he works with and shows them an example of what a godly man should be.” His youth workers gave him a standing ovation when he received the award.

Black Mountain Home for Children, Youth & Families has been caring for abandoned, abused, neglected, and orphaned children in WNC for more than a century.