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Care Provider Spotlight: This Waynesboro couple have provided years of service to the community and their family. They are presently care providers for their Granddaughter Raven. Paul and Margie Bird have been providing care to individuals in need for many years. Margie was a care giver through the home extension office and she and Paul provided a home for six foster children through the Augusta County Department of Social Services. They are presently care providers for their granddaughter Raven. Margie and Paul opened their home to Raven shortly after her birth, providing care and advocating for Raven in the school system. Many hours have been spent at Kluge Clinic and UVA Hospital dealing with Raven’s complex medical needs. Raven will age out of the school system this year and with Margie’s support and encouragement, Raven went on her first job interview this spring. Paul retired from the Naval Reserve after 27 years of active and reserve duty. He has turned much of the responsibility of the family Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing business over to his children, but he and Margie continue to help out as needed. Paul also installs Geothermal heating systems. In addition to all of his other responsibilities, Paul finds time to drive a bus for Augusta County Schools. Paul and Margie continue to be active with Special Olympics. Paul coaches and Margie makes sure that Raven is able to participate in the Special Olympics Praise & Worship Choir. Paul has driven the bus to regional and state games and they have accompanied Raven so she can be a full participant. Paul and Margie have provided a lifetime of service to the community and their family. The have also been wonderful care providers and DePaul Family Services thanks them for their service. By: Jim Strock, Developmental Disabilities Social Worker, Waynesboro |