“When you pray you move your feet. Don’t just sit and pray. Get out and do something. Don’t just ask God to wave his hand and fix it. Get up and move, so He can help you!”[1]

         The above is an old African proverb that Rev. Bruce Oliver used to tell his congregation at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. From June 25-27, 1998 the members of One Dozen Who Care did just that.

           When All God’s Children Get Together: The Festival of African American Gospel music celebrates Black church music. It was not exclusive to African Americans; however, white and Native American performers who sing in the traditional Black Gospel style were invited. The voices of these different races, genders, and ages joined together lifting in songs of praise. This event allowed for the people of both white and black coloring in not only Andrews but also the surrounding areas to have an open dialogue.

          During the festival not only was there singing but there was also a time where the elders of the community were interviewed so that their words and expressions and stories are not lost when they pass away. These interviews were held at the Walker Inn of Old Valleytown. The reason why this is significant is because of how amazing the situation was. “Black and White people of different economic levels-young and old- came together in love and peace at a place where slaves had once been locked away nightly on a dirt floor in a tiny, one-room shed with no windows.”[1]

Because of the work and dedication of the One Dozen Who Care lasting bonds were made and stories that needed to be heard were told.