The Importance of Community Support During Unprecedented Times
Watch this special message Fred Davis, member of the ACCESS Board of Directors, about why community support is crucial to the success of ACCESS, the families we serve, and our community at large.
As an organization, ACCESS has been celebrating 25 years of service all academic year. Through the years, our vision continues to drive our common belief for which this organization was founded. It is a reminder of our purpose and the critical services we provide for a vulnerable population.
At ACCESS, our philosophy is simple: All persons have the potential to learn, the capacity for change, and the right to live a meaningful life in the community of his or her choice. The impact of this person-centered care philosophy affords independence and new opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Families choose ACCESS because this team consistently understands and exceeds expectations when helping people with disabilities live a full and meaningful life.
Over the past weeks, these uncertain times have brought to light the importance of the services we provide to those who need them most. As a nonprofit organization, we do not have the safety net of cash reserves needed to survive an extended pandemic situation such as COVID-19. We are exploring all options to keep ACCESS a viable resource for our community including federal assistance, but we need our supporters to continue to make donations and invest in ACCESS more than ever in these difficult times.
Because of the generosity of individual donors, corporate sponsors, grants from foundations, community partnerships and volunteers, we have been able to open our doors year after year. ACCESS continues to depend on contributions from our local community to help Arkansans of all abilities achieve brighter futures. Most recently, we were humbled that the George and Linda Gleason Foundation, a long-time ACCESS supporter, has recently awarded $100,000 to ACCESS.
Mr. and Mrs. Gleason, accompanied by their daughter and current Secretary of the ACCESS Board of Directors Amy Baden, present their generous donation of $100,000 to ACCESS Executive Director and Co-founder Tammy Simmons.
Mrs. Gleason expressed, “In these unprecedented times, charitable giving is more impactful than ever. George and I hope that others are inspired to support noble causes like ACCESS and spread the hope of brighter days ahead.”
This conscious act of kindness originates from the heart, and we are grateful for their steadfast support of our important work. Every gift, large or small makes a difference in the lives of the families we serve. Thank you for recognizing the positive impact of our innovative services and for giving generously to our mission.
We cannot deliver these essentials services without your generous support. If you have been wondering how you can help support our community during these unprecedented times, please consider a donation to ACCESS. Join us today and help us finish our fiscal year end strong with a gift or pledge. Together, we can ensure ACCESS continues serving those who need us most for 25 more years as we continue to navigate new challenges and guidelines. Your investments are hard at work each and every day, and together, we are BUILDING BRIGHTER FUTURES!