With the help of generous individuals, businesses, foundations, and agencies, our staff meets daily challenges of managing children in crisis while working to uncover unique gifts buried under layers of confusion, fear, and failure. When a withdrawn child gives her teacher a strong, spontaneous hug or shares a treasured toy with a friend, we know that months and even years of work have been fruitful. We know another child is emerging from traumas we can barely imagine. Another innocent victim will not serve a life sentence of failure.
Beacon's staff and volunteers give far more than the 100 percent expected in the helping professions – little things like bringing in a bagful of toothbrushes to meet an unexpected shortfall to the long-term commitments required to turn lives around. Truly, they are heroes as are our students and families who are striving to join the mainstream of life. Thanks to you, we can give them the care and services they need. They, in turn, give us the hope that keeps our programs strong and our personal enthusiasm high. Imagine our delight to find an artist and a musician emerging in our high school. Before coming to Beacon, these talented teenagers were too distressed to discover their innate gifts.
While each day brings new challenges, each day brings new joys...moms cuddling up with their children and reading a book in our new Mommy and Me program...a shelter-weary family moving into their own apartment...youngsters writing a book together about their teacher's beagle...foster grandmothers hugging lonely toddlers...community and political leaders reaching out to hold the hand of a child.
"Giving" is the only word that sums up what Beacon is all about. We encourage you to give your time, talents, and advocacy. Please know that your gifts will last a lifetime and, in many cases, be passed on to the next generation.
With gratitude and thanksgiving,
Susan Reyna-Guerrero, LCSW
President and CEO
