Editor's Message

“Thank you.”

Two simple words that carry a lot of power. Doesn’t take much effort to say them. Yet, how often do we neglect to say “thank you” – to the waitress who refills our water glass, to the cashier at the store, to the service station attendant who puts gas in our car? How about the number of times we neglect to write thank-you notes – to the aunt for the thoughtful birthday gift (even if it’s the wrong size/style) or the friends who had us over for dinner?

At The Resource Center, we rely on the generosity of families, donors and the community at large – without their support, we wouldn’t be nearly as successful in our mission of improving the lives of individuals with disabling conditions. That’s why it’s important we remember to say “thank you” – to the businesses that sponsor our special events, to the donors who make financial contributions, to the family members and other volunteers who serve on our boards and committees and volunteer their time in other ways.

Sometimes, simply saying “thank you” isn’t enough – you have to do something more. The Resource Center accomplishes this in a number of ways: through our Legacy of Love Donor Recognition event, held each June at our Annual Meeting; through our annual Disability Awareness Awards Celebration; through our decision to pay taxes on certain of our properties, despite the fact that as a not-for-profit organization we are exempt from paying taxes. Two other ways in which we demonstrate our appreciation are happening now: operating the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County for the seventh year in a row, and being the major sponsor of the Jamestown Holiday Parade for the third straight year. Both activities allow TRC to give something back to the community as a way of saying “thank you” for its support throughout the year.

While we as an agency give our thanks, the people with disabilities whom we serve also give something back to the community. Many individuals and the staff who support them volunteer at organizations such as Meals on Wheels, the Humane Society, The Salvation Army, and after-school programs. Some of the people we serve make colorful bookmarks and donate them to area schools and libraries. These volunteer activities not only let individuals with disabilities demonstrate their appreciation, they enable them to be valued, contributing members of their community.

And so, in this season of giving thanks, we say “thank you” for your past and ongoing support. And if you’re new to TRC, we hope you give us the chance to say thank you by making a contribution to support our organization and the people with disabilities whom we serve.

Happy Holidays!