Month: May 2021

“We recognize the importance of educating at-risk children and teaching them entry-level job skills so that they can support themselves and have productive lives. We take great joy in seeing the impact of our giving.” –Dave & Barbara Stafford

The medieval philosopher Maimonides defined eight levels of charity in which each one is higher than the preceding one. Of the greatest level, he said “There is no greater thing than to support another by endowing him with a gift or loan, or entering into a partnership with him in order to strengthen him.”

For Barbara and Dave Stafford helping others – especially those with critical needs – is of paramount importance, and their giving is grounded in their faith. They were introduced to Jackson-Feild in 2004 when our former CEO spoke to members of their church in Smithfield.

Intrigued by what they heard, the Staffords asked to visit the campus, tour the facility, and meet some of the staff and residents. After their visit they had a great appreciation of what they saw. They took particular note of the staff’s professionalism and felt that the loving kindnesses they saw over and over again that day was what sets Jackson-Feild apart from other organizations that work with children and adolescents.

Now retired from Stafford Quality Homes, Inc. – a company they built – the Staffords visit campus regularly to see just how their donations are helping our children. During one visit, they enjoyed lunch with the children and were delighted to learn that the cupcakes served for dessert were made by students in our Gwaltney School as a part of a cake decorating class.

Over the years, the Staffords have witnessed – and applaud – the significant changes that include the acceptance of boys into the program, evolving into a residential psychiatric program, implementing a trauma-focused treatment model, and improving the buildings and grounds.

While they are regular monthly donors, it’s the special needs and projects that truly motivate the Stafford’s giving. Every few months, they contact our development office to inquire about any pressing needs that may have arisen, and often increase their giving to meet the need.

We believe that Maimonides himself would agree that Barbara and Dave Stafford have met the highest level of charity and personify the spirit philanthropy. They have made a tremendous difference in the lives of many children, and we are blessed to know them.

“Where flowers bloom, so does hope.” -Lady Bird Johnson

Our campus has never looked more beautiful than it does right now. As I gaze out my office window, not only do I see spring flowers, I see hope and opportunities for our children.

Our rural setting is ideal for developing trust, positive peer influences, and working toward therapeutic goals, and our staff does an excellent job of making our campus and facilities a safe and supportive environment in which the children can learn to heal themselves.

From the beginning, Jackson-Feild’s solemn mission has been to help children. Today – because the children need intensive mental health services – we recognize that what we do at Jackson-Feild must make a profound and positive impact so that the children can have successful lives and promising futures. We take this responsibility seriously.

When children arrive at Jackson-Feild, they are like a long-neglected rosebush. Full of thorns, and not a bloom – or hint of a rosebud – in sight. As they progress through their program of therapy, the children begin to sense a feeding of their hearts and souls, and – in time – they bloom with hope. They begin to see their own potential, and they welcome the opportunity to grow.

You – our donors and stakeholders – are important in achieving our mission. In many ways, the children benefit thanks to you and your gifts. Whether cash gifts or donations of much-needed supplies, you are helping to create a special environment on our campus. Thank you for offering your support and resources.

May you be blessed with the beauty of blooming flowers and an abundance of hope in all things.

Sincerely,
Patricia H. Delano
President & CEO