Dear Central Oregon, As I reflect on this past year, one word stands out above all others: stability. In a world that is constantly shifting, MountainStar’s mission to foster stability for the children and families we serve has never been more critical. At the heart of our work is the belief that strong, caring, and stable relationships are the foundation for a family’s well-being. By building trust, offering consistent support, and providing therapeutic services, we are able to nurture the lifelong stability that families need to thrive. Our vision extends beyond immediate assistance—we aim to empower families with knowledge and resources that create lasting change, working together on a path toward a brighter future. However, as we strive to help families make positive changes, we recognize that this important work is only possible when MountainStar itself remains strong. We rely on the stability of our community—volunteers, donors, and supporters like you—to ensure that our programs continue to meet the needs of Central Oregon families. Whether through generous contributions, hours spent volunteering, or participation in events like Birdies 4 Babies, our community has been the backbone of our success every year. This circle of investment—from our supporters, through the organization, and out to families—is what allows us to make lasting change. Over the past few years, with your help, we have been able to expand our programs to support new mental health initiatives, open therapeutic classroom sites in two communities, and add staff at our rural sites to focus on outreach and crisis intervention. These services provide critical supports for families and communities across our region. As we look ahead, we remain committed to fostering stability for both our families, our organization, and our region. Together, we can continue to break cycles of trauma, strengthen our community, and ensure that every family has the opportunity to build a safe, healthy, and stable future. Thank you for standing with us.
KARA TACHIKAWA, Executive Director, MountainStar Family Relief Nursery