Depaul Expressions Vol XXII-2

As the current calendar year comes to a close, I was thinking back on how I originally learned about DePaul. I was at an award presentation where DePaul presented a video about children in foster care in Virginia. The number of children looking for permanent homes was astonishing but even more heart-wrenching to me was the information about children aging out of foster care. I could not have imagined starting my adult life without the love and support of my father. When I hit obstacles or had a question, he was always there with answers and support. It was at that moment I realized I wanted to become involved with DePaul to see how I could pay back all that I had been fortunate enough to receive. Thereafter, I learned how much more DePaul does for so many individuals and families who need help. The idea of bringing hope and belonging to people is a just and noble cause. The act of creating and supporting spaces that tell a person “We will love you no matter what” is essential to human well-being. When we see someone who is struggling, sometimes our instinct is to look away. Not the DePaul staff; instead, they rush in to say, “We see you and let’s figure out how we can help.” For staff members, this is not a job, it is a calling, and they do such wonderful work. The stories of hope and belonging, like the ones in this newsletter, are incredible and illustrate the important role organizations like DePaul play in our communities. They also illustrate the beauty and strength of the children, families, and individuals with disabilities served by DePaul. Every day, staff members push forward to spread hope and belonging to more people in need. This year, DePaul has pushed forward by introducing new programs such as Agency-Directed Services, which helps people navigate a very complex system and provides funding to families so they can personally provide the time and caregiving their loved one needs. In addition, DePaul continued growth of the kinship care program to keep children with family members or close friends, reducing the risk of trauma from separation. DePaul does so much for so many, and I am extremely proud to have the opportunity to serve as the board chair this year and to support the organization financially. If you have the time to learn more about DePaul and the ability to support its mission of hope and belonging, please do. You will be glad you did. So Much for So Many in Need

Donna Littlepage, Chair, DePaul Board of Directors