Support Programs at Stepping Stones This Holiday Season

The holiday season signifies something different for everyone, but for most, it evokes memories of tradition, togetherness and time spent with family. For 52-year-old Moriah A., the holidays are her favorite time of year. That’s partly because for the last 40+ years, she has spent a portion of them with her second family… Stepping Stones. It is her home away from home and the place where she creates memories with peers, friends and staff members.

Four decades is a long time to spend in any singular program, but for Moriah, Stepping Stones has always been her happy place. As a 7-year-old, she started with Summer Day Camp in the 1980s, and has since participated in nearly every aspect of programming offered. It’s where she developed a love for swimming, nature and dancing. Moriah’s mother Barb says, “Moriah’s love for Stepping Stones is deep. It is the only time she gets to socialize with her peers, to be with her friends.” While Moriah has loved each program over the years, overnight respites are by far her favorite. In fact, Barb says “the first thing we do when Moriah gets home from respite is unpack her bag and immediately repack it so she’s ready for the next one.”

Attending respites during the holiday season is particularly meaningful for Moriah. She lights up, literally and figuratively, as she dresses for the occasions and gets excited about new experiences. Says Barb, “the volunteers and staff are amazing, they accommodate Moriah, make her feel like part of their family. It’s been a wonderful place for her and our family. It still makes her smile after all these years.”

Will you consider a gift to Stepping Stones in support of participants like Moriah? We sincerely appreciate your generosity!