From DePaul President and CEO Renee Brown…
As we step into 2025, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support of our mission. Together, we have built a compassionate community dedicated to uplifting children, supporting families, providing life-changing support to young adults, and empowering individuals with disabilities to lead lives filled with dignity and purpose.
I’ve been reflecting on the life and legacy of Nikki Giovanni, a brilliant poet, educator, and proud member of the Virginia Tech community, whose recent passing touched so many of us. As a fellow Hokie, I have long admired Nikki’s ability to inspire others with her words and her unwavering commitment to community and compassion. Seeing the tributes to her remarkable impact reminded me how deeply a meaningful legacy resonates across generations. It also made me think about our organization’s legacy—how every action we take today shapes the lives of those we serve and sets the stage for those who will carry our mission forward.
At the heart of our efforts lies a profound hope: that the work we do will not only change lives now but also build a legacy of love, resilience, and transformation for years to come. Every success story, every life touched, and every barrier overcome contributes to this vision. As we begin 2025 with this perspective, let us be intentional in the ways we lead, serve, and create lasting impact together.
While the world around us may feel uncertain, your support ensures that our organization remains a steadfast source of stability and hope. Because of you, children are finding loving homes, families are receiving the care they need, and individuals with disabilities are achieving goals they once thought impossible. Your kindness fuels our ability to meet challenges with courage, compassion, and determination.
As we welcome this new year, I invite you to continue this journey with us. Let us honor the legacies that inspire us, build upon the foundation we’ve created, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. On behalf of our entire team and the countless lives you’ve touched, thank you for your partnership, your generosity, and your unwavering belief in our mission.
With gratitude and hope,
Renee