Raintree's Annual Board Meeting

Raintree's Annual Board Meeting was held at The Junior League on October 23 with program participants, staff, foster parents, board members, and supporters. Our board chair, vice chair, and treasurer opened our meeting emphasizing our year's success! Not only that, but Raintree's Executive Director, LaShawna Schofield, and our Director of Programs, Meredith Barousse, gave attendees a glimpse of Raintree's impact on local youth. Through our three programs — Raintree House, Family Support Coordination, and Foster Care — children were able to receive access to the essential services they need to thrive.

Even though the overview was essential to this event, the evening's highlight was the award ceremony. All three of our programs recognized participants who have improved greatly in our care. As each child accepted their award, the room grew prouder and prouder, and cheers grew louder and louder.

Raintree House

Pictured is the winner of this year's Jessica Goodwin Award. This award was created in the memory of the late Jessica Goodwin, a former mentor to the girls at Raintree House. It's given to the most improved resident embodying strength and perseverance. Coming to Raintree House is an adjustment for youth, but with time and patience, majority excel and grow tremendously.

FSC

Our largest program, Family Support Coordination, serves children with developmental delays or disabilities. Each child has had major improvements- whether it's with speech, social skills, walking, eating, or behavior. Early intervention is crucial to whether or not a child can eventually learn to do their own. Awarded were program participants who have made great strides through FSC!

Foster Care

Raintree's children in foster care have made lots of progress this year! Every child deserves to have a loving home with everything they need- without it, it's nearly impossible to thrive. Not only did we recognize the children, but we also awarded foster parents. Raintree's foster parents are the glue that holds this program together.

Staff

Lastly, we acknowledged staff who have been dedicated to our mission and have been with Raintree for 5+ years! Pictured below are those who have made this milestone and beyond. It's hard to express how much their commitment fuels our work!