“Behind every screen is a person.”

These words resonate with me, as I frequently have virtual meetings and phone calls every day. Though we are separated by location, we will do well to remember and care for the real needs of people on the other side of our screens.

For years, Global Connections has used a strategy of creating opportunities to begin and deepen meaningful friendships with people from around the world. But how does this work when we are asked not to meet face-to-face?

How are you?

Some have asked how our international friends are doing. Many of our international friends remain in Bowling Green, staying in their home (away from home). Parents with young children, like Wenda, are caring for their little ones (as daycares and schools have been closed). The experience of buying groceries and supplies has changed significantly in BG. Stores remain open; but some supplies run low. Those seeking information about the coronavirus have been encouraged to listen to announcements from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and BGSU.

Some international friends like James, Abdel, and Atul have travelled to other states within the USA. They are an encouragement, as they band together with their family and friends.

Our international friends who have returned to their home nations tell us that their experiences are in many ways like ours here in Ohio. They have been so kind as to contact us and ask how we are, even offering to help provide supplies as needed. Many, like Xiaoli, Tao, and Fang, are working and/or attending school online. Others like Xu Jun are careful as they go out for a short trip at least weekly.

Some international friends like Sophena were caught away from BG when travel became restricted, returning from other nations into the United States via Seattle. As long travel can be exhausting, the extra precautions are making the experience even more difficult for some.

Local Resources

I’m proud of the friendship I witness being extended between neighbors, strangers, and across cultures. Local churches offer encouragement and support to those in Bowling Green by providing food, supplies, and virtual meetings for social and spiritual interaction. Those interested in observing or participating along with these churches can do so online.

Global Connections volunteers continue to offer weekly English classes online. This fun, virtual space offers not only lessons about language and culture, but also a much needed social interaction. Let me know if you’d like to join.

The Director of Counseling Services at Owens Community College recently released a video you’ll enjoy. It includes a number of excellent tips for physical and mental health, as well as some refreshing humor. You can watch it at https://youtu.be/2LleylmAGOI

How you can connect

1. Call an international friend – Ask how they’re doing, and genuinely listen. Find ways to help them. Ask how you can pray for them. Find out their plans. Set a date to follow up soon.
2. Meet virtually – Use a tool like Facetime, Zoom, WebEx, Google Meets, etc. to have a meeting by video through the internet. Not sure how? Ask a friend to host a meeting for you so they can teach you the ropes.
3. Give – Global Connections depends on the financial support of donors and volunteers like you. We have a financial need. Are you able to give? http://globalconnectionsbg.org/give/

Please be encouraged by the friendship and partnership we share during this time. I miss you. I wish you the best.

Until we meet again,
Steve Baney
Executive Director, Global Connections
419-601-0457