World Vision, a Christian volunteer group that organizes churches to take part in nationwide charity work, has recently turned its eyes toward Randolph and Upshur counties where groups of children and teens are fixing a playground and repairing a school.

Sarah Morgan of Grandpa John's Ministry first witnessed World Vision at work while out of state. When she returned, the community requested that the organization visit the area. World Vision agreed and has been helping make repairs to homes in Pickens, Shelbyville and Helvetia.

Over the past few days, Helvetia residents have housed volunteers and conducted a picnic for the youths that have crossed state borders to help renovate homes in their community. The picnic took place Wednesday and featured artist Jeremy Simons.

Morgan was adamant in her praise of the spirit that World Vision has brought to the area.

"We are blessed to have an organization like World Vision come in and ignite the community," she said.