We build community by building connection and Brehona’s nomination is a wonderful example of this in action.

Each Fall, SA hosts an annual pumpkin decorating contest, and this year Brehona jumped in wholeheartedly. She took the initiative to source pumpkins for clients, families, and foster youth, ensuring everyone could have the opportunity to participate in this fun seasonal tradition.

 An excerpt from the nomination reads:

“Brehona went above and beyond to find pumpkins for all our office personnel and all our program staff who are hard at work as well as providing for the foster youth and families who find themselves in crisis. She called an endless list of pumpkin farms hoping for a donation in the name of all youth and families (we support).

She finally located a wonderful farm who was happy to donate as many as needed; the farm was located out near one of our foster homes, and Brehona went and picked up all the pumpkins herself to bring back to the office an hour away from the office.” 

The sourcing of the pumpkins led to deeper community connection. Program staff enjoyed an hour together of self-care and connection – relaxing, enjoying food and painting pumpkins together – also celebrating our organization’s birthday (October 31st!). Pumpkins were also distributed to foster youth and other youth and families we serve with every pumpkin finding a home by October 31st! 

The festivities closed out the month with the best possible outcome – Brehona submitted the winning photo on behalf of the program and won the SA Pumpkin Decorating Contest  – earning well-deserved bragging rights for the year!

 Thank you, Brehona, for your initiative and dedication to connecting with the community, and bringing staff, clients and families together in a meaningful and memorable way. 

Congratulations, Brehona!