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Key Highlights from Fiscal Year 2022-2023

Our Staff
Our Staff

While this fiscal year was filled with many bright spots, the one that I keep coming back to is just how exceedingly grateful I am for the team we have here at Karis Community. It is an absolute privilege to work alongside this fiercely passionate bunch and to be a part of each of their journeys as professionals. Yes, at the epicenter of our work is our Community; however, too often I think we forget about the people working day in and day out to support said Community. Whether it's applying for a grant that helps us keep the boiler running in the winter, making the Costco runs for Community supplies, driving a Community Member to a doctor's appointment or to pick up their prescription, or holding space for Community Members day after day, and night after night in Check-Ins, it is all of these seemingly "small" acts that come together to create a pretty awesome place to be!

~ Annie Wharton, Executive Director
47 Years of Hope & Healing
47 Years of Hope & Healing

My favorite moment from the fiscal year 2022-2023 was our spring fundraiser. While the rain poured in buckets, friends of Karis still showed up to support our program while enjoying an evening of delicious food, Topgolf play, auction bidding, and more. Our honoree, Susan Wagner, and Stepping Stone Cottage resident Taylor S. shared vulnerable, honest, and inspiring stories in front of a large crowd. Every time I hear someone share their experience, strength, and hope, I feel optimistic that one day we will live in a world where mental health is destigmatized and people struggling feel empowered to talk and get the help they need.

~ Lisa Andersson, Director of Development and Communications
Case Management
Case Management

It's hard to believe that a year has gone by since I started the newly created position of Operations and Community Services Manager. Over the year, besides being responsible for the daily operations and administration of the two properties, and as the occupancy of Karis Community increased, so did my case management/care navigation responsibilities to all the Community Members and Alums. In the beginning, I set aside a few hours each week to assist the Community Members in this capacity, and now, since the need has increased, I am assisting the Community Members with these tasks two days a week. I have enjoyed every minute of my time spent at Karis and revel in the achievements of all the Community Members.

~ Miriam Bouley, Operations and Community Services Manager
The Cottage
The Cottage

Since 2015, graduates from Karis Community have had an opportunity for continued growth, living at the Stepping Stone Cottage. While at the Cottage, we all work as a team and support one another. My goal, as the Property Manager, is for everyone to always feel safe as they learn to be more independent. A lot of hard work is done at the Cottage for healing and health. I'm so lucky to be a part of it!

~ Angela Lancaster, Property  Manager (Stepping Stone Cottage)
Our Community
Our Community

If I were to describe the Community in one word, I'd say “united.” The best part of our program is the Community and the meaningful relationships they make with each other. My favorite part of Karis is not only watching Community Members (CMs) grow but watching them grow together. Whether CMs act as a shoulder to cry on, a pickleball/ping pong/Spike ball partner, an embroidery companion, or a workout buddy, CMs continually show up and support each other during the ups and downs of their healing journeys. A highlight for me was hearing about a time a CM was nervous about applying for a job, and their fellow CM reassured them about their strengths and then accompanied them to the interview. The Community is what makes Karis unique. The Community is what makes Karis special.

~ Dalia Rubenstein, Program Manager
Beautification Day
Beautification Day

This last year has been a great year. It was my second year working as the Facilities Manager at Karis. I learned lots of new things. I worked on electric, plumbing, and a bunch of other tasks at Karis. Our annual Beautification Day went well. With some help, I could clean the pond in the backyard, and I am waiting to get some fish to put in it. Overall it was a wonderful year, and I am excited to spend many more at Karis.

~ Jeff Wade, Facilities Manager

1 thought on “Key Highlights from Fiscal Year 2022-2023”

  1. gralion torile
    Reply

    Hi! I’ve been following your weblog for some time now and finally got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from New Caney Tx! Just wanted to tell you keep up the good work!

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