By Debbie Marini
…a time of reflection on past activities, relationships, accomplishments, and milestones… a time to look forward to plans for the future: hopes, dreams, and relationships to come. What a special time in a young person’s life and for those who have nurtured them along the way!
I experienced the joy and anticipation of graduation with two of my own children who recently had their farewell ceremonies, one from elementary school and one from middle school. Here at the Agency we also experienced it with five—yes, five—of our CHOSEN Treatment Foster Care youth. As our dedicated Family Treatment Managers Emily, Michael and Will passed around high school graduation cards to sign and pictures from the BIG DAY, we felt a real sense of pride for these young people who we have the privilege of serving. In this great accomplishment they have inspired us with their tenacity, persistence, and hard work despite the many challenges they face.
Thank you and congratulations to Joey, Amanda, Angela, Dominic, and Justin. Please join me in praying for these young graduates, as well as those who will be leaving school for the summer and preparing for the next step in their education.
In order to help these youth and many others start off their next school year without having to worry about whether they will have the supplies they need, we are conducting a Back-to-School Supply Drive (see attached flier and bulletin insert). We are excited to see the outpouring of love that this drive always brings as the backpacks, crayons, folders, pencils, and paper begin to fill the shelves of our donation supply room. And this year we look forward to delivering them to hundreds of kids involved in our many programs, as well as to churches that are doing outreach to their community.
Whether you are a therapeutic foster parent, volunteer, or in-kind/financial supporter of the Agency, you are making an impact on a young person’s future. Please know that our kids are thankful for how you have nurtured them along the way. Thank you.