DePaul Community Resources 2023 Annual Report

Annual Report 2023

Opening doors to hope and belonging

Table of Contents 1 CEO Letter 1 Licensure and Membership 2 Financial Statements 3 Finding Her Confidence 4 A Door Opened, A Chance to Change More Lives 7 A Growing Family Strengthened 8 Drake’s Dreams for the Future 10 Terry’s Journey to Health and Happiness 11 Impact and Need 12 You Made It Possible 14 Mission and Where We Are

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CREDITS: President & CEO: Renee Brown Director of Development: Daria VanRavestein Editor-in-Chief: Alison Wickline-Burns Layout and Design: Billy Chase Cover Photography: Carla Funk Photography *see stories for other photo credits

Board of Directors Beverly Binner , Chair | Carilion Clinic Greg Withers , Past Chair | McLeod Enterprises Donna Littlepage , Vice Chair; Secretary | Carilion Clinic Troy Smith , Treasurer | Avis Construction Gordon Ewald , Lifetime Member | Retired Wesley “Wes” Brusseau | Creative Counseling , LLC Heather Davenport | Carilion Clinic Amy Kageals | Carilion Clinic Mark Lucas | Mill Mountain Technologies , LLC Leidra McQueen | Lynchburg Beacon of Hope Quanesha Moyer | Minnick School Curtis Thompson | Total Action for Progress (TAP)

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Embracing Growth and Change

Being the proud mom of two young adult sons means we have a lot of conversations about growth and change. My oldest son, Chris, recently bought the family business and is learning what it means to be a small business owner. My youngest son, Jay, recently graduated from Virginia Western Community College with an Information Technology (IT) degree and is exploring the job market hoping to discover what aspect of IT is most exciting to him. We talk about how embracing growth and change means stepping out of one’s comfort zone, facing challenges head on, and learning from both successes and failures. We also discuss how these experiences are essential for building resilience, acquiring wisdom, and shaping a fulfilling future. I shared with them that many organizations focus on growth and change, including DePaul. Just like Chris and Jay, our organization must cultivate a culture of continuous learning and improvement to stay relevant and provide the highest quality of care and support to those we serve. By embracing growth and change, we can adapt to new circumstances, evolve perspectives, and redefine our scope of work. This past year, we positioned ourselves for expansion. We now have an additional location in Hanover, outside of Richmond, that is fully staffed. We have started a new service called agency-directed services with the goal of having a positive impact where the current demand for this service exceeds the available service providers. We expanded our work with vulnerable children to include kinship care and enhanced therapeutic foster care. We know that entering these new uncharted waters will include the need to evaluate our strategies, learn from them, and adapt for success. Because of our dedicated staff, strong leadership team, and loyal supporters like you who believe in our mission, I have no doubt we will do just that. In this annual report, you will find stories of courage, resilience, and hope that would not have been possible without your support of our mission. On behalf of everyone at DePaul, I thank you for standing with us as we grow and change together to uplift our communities and shape a future filled with hope and belonging.

With gratitude, Renee Brown President and CEO

Licensure and Membership

Licensed by

Member of:

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Financial Statements

Occupancy Costs

Total Expenses $25,071,456

3 %

$763,831

$21,508,357 85.8 % Direct Program Costs

$2,799,268 11.2 % Program Support Costs

SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL POSITION

SUPPORT AND REVENUE

Current Assets and Investments

$10,212,206

Program Services*

$24,605,019

Property and Equipment

$2,868,035

Contributions

$257,648

Total Assets

Investment Income Less Expenses

$317,950

$13,080,241

Government Grants

$2,081

Current and Total Liabilities

$3,906,209

Other Income

$30,870

Total

Net Assets $9,174,032 Total Liabilities and Net Assets $13,080,241

$25,213,568

*includes $1,501,814 of grant revenues

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Finding Her Confidence Story by Alison Wickline-Burns | Photos by Adria Michelle Photography

Nina knew she was struggling. She was a senior in high school, work ing on college applications and trying to plan out her future. It was a difficult time for her, full of expectations and big questions. She needed someone to talk to, somewhere safe to turn. She found DePaul’s counseling services. “I was kind of a mess when I started,” said Nina.

“I think one of the most important things that she has done for me is that she has given me a lot of confi dence to do things that I was unsure about,” said Nina. Nina is grateful for the impact

“If I hadn’t gotten counseling, I might have given into pressure from people around me instead of following my own path.”

DePaul’s counseling services have had on her life. She remembers a time early on in her journey when she thought those services would be lost due to insurance coverage issues. At that time, when Nina saw her chance at help slipping away, a generous DePaul donor answered the call. “It was clear how beneficial continuing services would be to Nina so she could keep improving and heal ing,” said Angela. Funds from the Hughes Philanthropic Society allowed Nina’s counseling to continue uninterrupted, giving her the time she needed to continue growing, learning, and changing her life. “If I hadn’t gotten counseling, I might have given into pressure from people around me instead of following my own path,” said Nina.

— NINA

As soon as Nina’s virtual sessions with her therapist Angela began, she felt a difference. She felt relief from all the pressure that had been building and the weight of the responsibilities she was carrying. “It can really help just to have someone there to talk to,” said Nina. “I was able to tell her stuff about school and family. It was nice to have someone to listen because before I didn’t feel like I had someone to confide in.” Through her work with Angela and DePaul, Nina was able to improve her mental health. She felt ready to start on those college applications and future plans again because this time she knew she had someone in her corner encouraging her and believing in her.

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A Door Opened, A Chance to Change More Lives Story by Alison Wickline-Burns | Photos by Sara Beth Photography

A more fulfilling life. That’s what Tracy hoped her son, Cory, would find once she and her husband Billy became his sponsored residential providers through DePaul. At the time, the family was struggling to find reliable caregivers and to give Cory the support, stability, and opportuni ties he deserved. With the help of the program, Cory’s life changed. “It allows us to be here and know that he is getting what he needs every day,” said Tracy. Cory’s calendar stays full these days. “He loves being out and about and around people,” said Tracy. He plays baseball, goes bowling, and explores local parks. Connections made through DePaul have given him and his family lifelong friends. “DePaul has given us a really great support group,” said Tracy. “We all have our moments where we need to be lifted up.” Billy, Tracy, and Cory have been part of the spon sored residential program since 2014, receiving services through DePaul’s office in Amelia. While they love the staff members at that office, the travel to and from Amelia was sometimes difficult for Cory. When they learned DePaul was opening a new office in Hanover County close to where they live, they were thrilled.

“This is much better for us because all of his natural supports and doctors are right in this community,” said Tracy. “It definitely benefits us to stay closer in case something happens.” DePaul’s Amelia office

“This is much better for us because all of his natural supports and doctors are right in this community.”

sits to the southwest of R i chmond, wh i l e the Hanover office sits to the northeast, allowing the expansion of services into the Northern Virginia and

— TRACY

Tidewater region of the state. The decision to open that new office was driven by stories like Cory’s. “The placement of the Hanover office was one that we gave a great deal of thought to and allows us to better serve ‘both sides of the river’ east and west via these two locations,” said Amber Allen, director of residential services. “The Hanover office not only provides more access and flexibility to those we serve but also gives us the opportunity to bring needed services to counties where they have been limited.” DePaul saw a community need, dared to dream, and took the leap. Now, there is a new office to provide more comfort and convenience for current families in the sponsored residential program. A new office that can grow the organization’s footprint, giving more individuals with disabilities support, stability, and opportunities. A new office making hope and belonging possible today for those who could not imagine it yesterday.

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A Growing Family Strengthened Story by Alison Wickline-Burns | Photos by Taylored Images

When Leticia received the call that her sister’s kids needed a safe place to stay, she opened her home to care for them without question. “It was very important for them to stay with family and in their circle,” said Leticia. The decision was easy, but the reality was hard. Leticia is only 27 years old and was already caring for children of her own. The family lived in a small apartment and worked hard to make ends meet. In a time of stress, struggle, and transition, DePaul ’s Strengthening Connections program stepped in to help. Strengthening Connections

system, and provides practical tools and support so children can remain with those familiar to them,” said Trista, foster care supervisor. For Leticia’s growing family, the program provided emotional and educational support for the children, furniture for their new larger apart ment, and assistance in filing for benefits to meet everyone’s needs. “If I would have had to do this without the program, I don’t know what that would have looked like,” said Leticia. “I would have had to do it piece by piece, a lot slower. I appreciate everything.” DePaul believes kinship care

“It was very important for them to stay with family and in their circle.”

is a grant-funded program designed to support relative and fictive kin caregivers and their families in accessing services and supports that help stabilize the family unit. The goals of this

programs like Strengthening Connections have the power to make a significant positive impact on Virginia’s child welfare system. As the state struggles to find enough safe, stable, loving

— LETICIA

kinship care program include preventing children from entering foster care, avoiding further trauma through therapeutic support services, funding emer gency items to meet children’s immediate needs, and providing guidance from a kinship care specialist to ensure families are successful. “Our kinship program helps caregivers build their natural supports, learn to navigate the child welfare

foster homes to care for thousands of waiting chil dren and teens, kinship care will be an important part of the solution. Looking ahead, DePaul hopes to grow Strengthening Connections to serve more children and families in need. As for Leticia and her family, the future will not be without challenges, but they feel ready to tackle them together.

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Drake’s Dreams for the Future Story by Alison Wickline-Burns | Photos by Carla Funk Photography

Day by day, Drake is setting himself up for the future he’s always dreamed of: a future where his self-owned business is successful, where he is financially stable, and where he can purchase his own home. DePaul’s Independent Living program has been there for Drake as he designs his dreams. “It helps to have DePaul in my corner, giving me direction when I need it,” said Drake. Drake joined the Independent Living program in May 2022. The program offers support to young people as they transition from life in foster care to

“I’m always happy to help someone,” said Drake. DePaul was there as Drake navigated running his own business, helping him understand the commu nity and helping him purchase a much-needed new ladder. It was all a labor of love for DePaul staff members. “Drake is one of the hardest working young men I have ever seen in this program,” said Carrie, inde pendent living supervisor. “He has grown so much during his time with DePaul, and it has been a plea sure to be here for him to help support his dreams.” Drake is appreciative

adulthood. Drake was looking for a safe place to live and a chance to learn life skills. “I was hoping for a place where I could develop finan cial skills and grow,” said Drake. “I want to be prepared for the future.”

for the guidance, encour agement, and support. He knows what life is like when you lack that. “Sometimes my life has been difficult because I’ve been relying on myself and

“It helps to have DePaul in my corner, giving me direction when I need it.”

— DRAKE

Last spring, Drake started his own business: Drake’s Window Cleaning Service. He began offering residential and business window cleaning throughout the Bristol and Abingdon areas. He went door to door advertising his services, offered free quotes to increase interest, and learned a lot along the way.

doing a lot on my own since I was young,” said Drake. As Drake sets up for another window cleaning— gathering his tools, sorting his supplies, and making his plans—he illustrates a perfect picture of why DePaul’s Independent Living program is important.

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Terry’s Journey to Health and Happiness Story by Alison Wickline-Burns | Photos by Taylored Images

On a bright, sunny day, you’ll likely find Terry and her compassionate caregiver, Patti, taking a walk outside. These walks have become an

Wheels. She enjoys spending time with her friends. She loves getting pedicures with Patti. Most recently, she wanted a pet, so she and Patti welcomed a guinea pig into their home named Ms. Precious Piggy. “I love being here with Ms. Patti and Ms. Piggy,” said Terry. “I get help from Ms. Patti—she helps me with my meds, my breakfast, all things that I need.” DePaul staff members have been honored to be part of Terry’s health and happiness journey, too. “Terry is one of the most caring, helpful, and happy people I know,” said Candice, residential manager. “She is one of those people that walks into a room and you’re immediately drawn to her energy because she is so positive.”

important part of Terry’s life and journey to health and happiness. “ I l ike going outside and getting some vitamin D,” said Terry. When Terry became part of DePaul’s Sponsored Residential program, she

“I get help from Ms. Patti—she helps me with my meds, my breakfast, all things that I need.”

— TERRY

had a diagnosis of pre-diabetes, so addressing her health concerns became a top priority. Since then, she has lost a significant amount of weight and received the support she needs to make educated and healthy choices. Along with better health, she found happiness. Terry attends Goodwill’s day support program three days a week. She volunteers with Meals on

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Your 2023 Impact… ❤ Foster Care: 133 children and teens experienced safety and healing in a family home ❤ Adoption: 194 children and teens received support during their adoption process, including 96 who were officially welcomed into their forever homes. 327 families received post-adoption services for enhanced stability and connection ❤ Day Support: 27 individuals with disabilities were provided opportu nities for social inclusion, skill-building, and community engagement ❤ Sponsored Residential Care: 142 individuals with disabilities resided in family homes instead of institutions ❤ Counseling Services: 249 families strengthened their relationships ❤ Independent Living: 25 young adults transitioned into college, employment, and stable housing ❤ Kinship Care: 11 families were supported with services and resources to keep children out of foster care What Needs To Be Done… ❤ 2 , 127 children in foster care are waiting to be adopted Source: Virginia Department of Social Services, December 2023 ❤ 66 adults with disabilities still reside in training centers Source: The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, January 2024 ❤ 555 children are living in temporary care facilities, group homes, or residential treatment facilities Source: Virginia Department of Social Services, December 2023 ❤ 15 , 016 Virginians with I/DD are on waiting lists for waivers Source: The Arc of Virginia, December 2023 ❤ 442 youth aged out of foster care without a permanent placement during fiscal year 2023 Source: Virginia Department of Social Services, December 2023

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You Made It Possible

For the second year in a row, the E. C. Wareheim Foundation has awarded DePaul’s Independent Living (IL) Program $20,000 to support young adults aged 18 to 21 who have aged out of foster care. Our IL program provides these young adults an apartment supervised by DePaul staff where they receive needed support and guidance as they obtain higher education and/or employment in preparation for independence. These young adults have experienced hardships in the foster care system and the majority endured past trauma. Without a permanent family home and the opportunities needed to succeed, they are at an increased risk of devastating outcomes, including homelessness, substance abuse, violence, and incarceration. DePaul’s IL program improves the odds for young adults and gives them the tools they need to achieve their goals. The William Dean Charitable Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee awarded $10,000 to DePaul for Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT) for children and individuals with disabilities. EAT is an evidence-based method of treatment for individuals with mental, emotional, or behavioral health issues, as well as physical conditions and disabilities. Working with and riding horses therapeutically improves motor function, strength, and coordination and has numerous psychological benefits including increased self-esteem, confidence, communication, and feelings of competency. EAT is proven to be life-changing for individuals with disabilities struggling with physical, behavioral, and emotional challenges, and foster and adoptive youth who experienced past trauma and are not responding to traditional talk therapies.

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Thank you to the Hughes Philanthropic Society, Jesse N. Bosang Trust, Vinton Moose Lodge #1121, Community Catalyst Funds of the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, and 31 individual donors for combined donations of $35,902 for the Hughes Fund and the Bridge to Hope Fund serving children, families, and individuals with disabilities. These funds make life changing services and support possible for at-risk individuals in need by providing items such as tangible needs, assistive items, therapy, and other emergency aid when it is out of reach, and they have nowhere else to turn. This year both funds collectively honored 48 requests for items and needs such as clothing for foster youth, child safety seats and other childcare needs, therapies and counseling for youth and families in crisis, tutoring and mentoring for foster youth, copays for medical bills, food assistance, and assistive items for individuals with disabilities.

The Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia awarded DePaul a $10,000 grant to support children, families, and individuals with disabilities served by the vital programs offered by DePaul’s Abingdon office. A portion of the funds provided tangible needs for young adults in our Independent Living (IL) program who are preparing for adulthood after aging out of foster care. Needs ranged from basic household supplies for youth when they first move into the IL apartments, a matching savings program to help youth save for a car, and first housing and/or moving expenses for youth graduating from the IL program. A portion of the funds was also used to purchase much-needed play therapy supplies and items for children to use in our Abingdon office’s new therapy playroom.

The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation awarded DePaul a $4,000 grant from the Faye Marcum Mifka Fund to enhance activities for participants of our OPTIONS day support program in Madison Heights. DePaul’s OPTIONS centers are welcoming, loving places to belong for individuals with disabilities, with activities inside and outside the center that are tailored to the abilities and interests of participants. Funding from the foundation provided our OPTIONS center in Madison Heights with critical program support and helped our participants engage in meaningful and fun activities outside of the center, while connecting them with friends and their community.

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Mission and Where We Are

OUR CORPORATE MISSION We work to support the success of our clients by providing a high-quality, sustainable, accountable, and supportive organization that clears the skies for our workforce. CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES MISSION We work to ensure safety, promote permanency, facilitate healing, and support independence for the children and families we serve. DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERVICES MISSION We work to support personal choice, promote individual growth, and increase social inclusion to improve quality of life for individuals who have a developmental disability.

Office Key

Day Support

* remote work location

Hanover