Dear Wellspring Families and Friends,
When my family and I relocated from the east coast to Castle Rock over 18 years ago, I could not have imagined the adventure that awaited us. Starting a non-profit was the farthest thing from my mind. But as my husband Bob and I observed the lack of opportunities available to adults with special needs in Colorado at that time, our hearts were stirred to help our daughter Emily and her friends experience full lives. God used that stirring to inspire the Wellspring vision and the passion to bring that vision to life. What an extraordinary privilege it has been all these years to have a front row seat as we have watched this beautiful community come together to bless the lives of our sweet STARS. We are so grateful to every family that has entrusted Wellspring with the care of their loved ones and to every staff member, board member, donor and volunteer who have given so generously to advance the vision beyond our wildest dreams. And what a thrill for us to see Wellspring thriving today, despite a pandemic and every imaginable challenge a non-profit can endure – thanks to the faith, skill and commitment of Wellspring’s Executive Director, Nicole DeVries, and our amazing leadership team. Wellspring sits safely in the palm of God’s Hands and we are excited to see what the future holds.
As for our future…Bob, Emily and I will be heading back to the east coast in August, to our new home in Sarasota, Florida! We will be trading cold and snow for warmth and white, sandy beaches; mountains for the ocean; and soaking in lots of wonderful humidity. But, we won’t be leaving Wellspring. We’ll be bringing it with us! Thanks to Wellspring’s amazing virtual program, Emily will be able to stay connected with her friends! We have connected with a local church there who is interested in starting a ministry for adults with special needs. The Wellspring team has graciously agreed to offer this church training and guidance so that they can minister to adults with special needs in the Sarasota area.
As we embark on this new adventure, Bob, Emily and I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for all your love and support throughout the years and look forward to seeing some of you on our visits back here or your visits to the Sunshine State.
With much love and gratitude,
Mary Lou