Blog: A Year Full of Thanks

Well.........it's been one year since I came to Human Services Programs of Carroll County, Inc. and what a year it has been. A year filled with excitement, change, and a big bunch of support.

Since I came to HSP, I have been in awe of the support we are given each and every day from the members of this community. Its people, the faith based and civic organizations and the businesses have been amazing!Throughout the course of this last year, their gifts of time, talent and treasure have been notable. It's heart warning to know they appreciate what we do to help the County's low income and at risk population.

While it would be impossible to name everyone, it is important to take our hats off to them. While it would be impossible to name every person, every business, and every organization, there are a few in recent months that I would like to acknowledge.

First -- the Westminster Home Depot. Just two months ago, eight Home Depot staff gave two days of their personal time to construct a fenced in play yard with special ground cover in the front of our agency. Joining them was Marty Hackett from CLSI in Westminster, who donated his time and essential tools to dig the necessary pot holes for a 20' by 24' fenced area. This has benefited our Family Support Center whose children ages 0 to three years have an easy to access play area right here at HSP.

Second -- "Everybody's Quilt Guild," a group of very talented women recently delivered 20 beautiful, handmade quilts to our Women and Children's Shelter. Each one of these quilts required more than 60 hours to make. This group of dedicated women became interested in the Women and Children's Shelter last year after hearing about a group of artists who were painting murals on the shelter walls. They came to visit the shelter and shortly after decided that they would craft their quilts to bring warmth and comfort to the women and children who come through this facility.

Third -- the wonderful donations of talent from local musicians for our summer concert series. Several local artists have donated their performances to help keep our costs down for the "Month of Sundays." The acoustic trio, "Middle Sister" with lead singer and Carroll County resident Lisa Spera donated their performance on July 8th. That same evening, "Child of Mischief" featuring guitarists and singers, Chris Swam and Greg Gottleib, also donated their talent to benefit HSP. Their performance was unique in that they formed their band for the sole purpose of performing during the Month of Sundays series. Joining them on that evening were drummer, Mike Buffington and electric guitarist Richard Tipton; also Carroll County residents. Lastly, Mason Vixon, recently named by WBAL radio as one of the region's top 40 emerging bands, braved the rain and heat on July 15 to donate their time and talent too! Carroll County natives Ashley Miles and Nikia Sayre are members of this country/pop band.

So you can see this has been quite the year! It is my hope that our many partnerships will stay steady, while we continue to evolve and form new bonds with other community entities.