In November, Americans traditionally count our many blessings, and as a nation, we are certainly blessed. As one smallish nonprofit in one little, rural corner of this nation, Community Connections is basking in gratitude as well.
The communities of Southwest Colorado are renowned for their generosity. In times of communitywide need, our residents step up and help each other rebound. Our region continuously supports a vast array of organizations that make our residents’ lives healthier and more enriched.
Community Connections has benefited from the generosity of our local communities for almost 35 years, and 2018 has been no exception. We are extremely grateful to everyone who has touched our work this year.
Our biggest thanks go to the adults and families of young children who have chosen us to be in your lives. Families have entrusted us with the growth and development of your infant or toddler. We recognize what an honor it is to be with you in this most precious time of your child’s life. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have hired us to help you live the life you choose. Many times, this means entrusting us to help you with very private and personal aspects of your life. You’ve let us be a part of major life decisions and milestones. Thank you for allowing us to walk beside you in your journey.
None of this would be possible without our faithful employees and host home providers. On a daily basis, you are using your creativity, your patience, your teaching skills and even your physical strength to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead healthy and fulfilling lives in our communities. You are giving your lives to ensure that others have the same opportunities in life that you do.
None of this is done in a bubble. The local communities of Southwest Colorado support us and our mission in more ways than I can describe. Every time your business or organization welcomes an individual with disabilities, you are moving the needle toward a more inclusive and accepting community for everyone.
Thanks especially to businesses that employ people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. You are helping to shatter the myth that people with severe disabilities are unable to contribute to the economy.
You are not only supplying a job, but in many cases you are increasing a person’s self-esteem and giving them connections they would not have had otherwise.
Most humble gratitude to our donors and other supporters! You are way too numerous to name, but thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity over the years.
Special thanks to Morehart Murphy Subaru, Kroegers Ace Hardware and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for your many years of support. Thanks as well to La Plata County, Montezuma County, the city of Durango, the town of Bayfield, the town of Mancos and the town of Pagosa Springs for recognizing the contributions of Community Connections to your residents.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
Tara Kiene is president/CEO of Community Connections Inc.
