Ed Raymond doing pet care - one of his part-time jobs.

Dear Friends,

As we kick off our annual Community Campaign fundraising drive, I'd like to share with you a story that illustrates just how powerful an impact every donation can make. I watched recently as Ed Raymond, one of the individuals we serve, presented an award to Rebecca (Becky) O'Neill at our annual Thank You Reception. Becky, a volunteer from the Whitinsville Social Library, was being recognized for teaching Ed how to read. It was a wonderful moment, made even more so by the fact that Ed proudly read his speech. And, it got me thinking about how support for Alternatives has a ripple effect – touching many more lives in the community than you could possibly imagine.

Ed's story is a great example. It begins with our Shared Living program, which gives individuals with developmental disabilities the chance to live in a real home environment. A year ago, Harry became Ed's shared living provider. They moved into a new apartment together and Harry began sharing his love of the outdoors with Ed, teaching him how to kayak and taking him on camping trips. He also connected Ed with the literacy program at the library, where Ed met Becky.

Shared Living has been a wonderful experience for Ed but, interestingly, it's been just as terrific for Harry. In fact, Harry might argue that he's gotten the better part of the deal. "Everyone tells me how much I'm doing for Ed; they don't understand that everything I give I get back tenfold," he explains. "It's been the best decision I've ever made, one that has given my life new meaning."

During the day, through Alternatives' Employment Program, Ed works as part of a janitorial crew and does pet care. He also volunteers at the Uxbridge Food Pantry and Community Harvest, a project that grows produce for food pantries. When asked about volunteering, Ed smiles and exclaims, "I like helping people!"

When you choose to support Alternatives' Community Campaign, you want to help individuals like Ed build a better life. Your generosity does that and so much more. It gives Harry a new sense of purpose, it gives Becky recognition for her kindness and hard work, and it provides food for local families.

Today, I'm asking you to make a donation to this year's Community Campaign - to help us create opportunities for the individuals we serve, like Ed, to continue to learn, grow and, most of all, to contribute.

P.S. To see photos of Ed in action, please click here. To donate online, click here!