November 2021
Dear Friends of STARS Family Services,
The fall season at STARS Family Services (SFS) is starting off busier than ever, and winter is coming faster than it seems possible, but as we think about how we began the year, in COVID-19 shutdown, we are amazed. So many good things are happening since we reopened the doors. Of course one of the greatest joys was welcoming our residents back into the homes. This has been a special time where we have been able to spread our wings in new areas. Here are a few developments we are excited about and want to share with you.
SFS has begun piloting a day program at Kenny’s Home where STARS can come and spend time during the day and provide needed respite care for other family members. This expands the use of our homes beyond the residents to the greater STARS community. We are taking steps, so your prayer is appreciated as we explore this new way to provide care and support.
We are working to expand the Partner Program so that we can provide job training and support for a growing number of people in the STARS community. The STARS Resale Shop and Twice is Nice stores are at the forefront of this, and the new space at SRS opens up new possibilities.
The Art Studio has been a great new addition. This summer and early fall we had some mini exhibits of art that are being received well. We are investigating future exhibits and ways that we can use the positive impact of art in the lives of more of our STARS. You’ll definitely be seeing more from this area.
There is more exciting news to share—and we could use some help with this one. The Coleman Foundation has made STARS Family Services eligible for up to $12,500 as part of their Thresholds Matching Grant program. We will receive that full amount provided 50 supporters give gifts of $250 or greater. We ask you to consider being one of those 50 donors. You can give your gift online or by mail. As long as it is $250 or greater, it will qualify for the match. The gift also must be given during the month of November.
So there is both a threshold of $250, and a deadline of November 30 by which SFS must receive the matching gifts. We ask for you to pray that people will respond and give generously so that STARS Family Services will receive the full match.
We are thankful for all donors and welcome gifts of any size at any time, but we wanted to be sure to make everyone aware of this special giving opportunity in November. We also ask for your prayers as we continue to hire new workers and expand the pilot and partner programs and grow the art studio.
Thank you for your prayerful consideration.
Angela Killian, executive director
Tony DiLeonardi, board of directors president