TWO birthday cakes, punch, and a barbeque were ready for the kids who showed up to celebrate the second birthday of the Spechtrum Youth Center on Saturday March 31. It didn’t take long for hamburgers and cake to be devoured.
“It’s been a fascinating and fast two years,” said Matt Burton, President and CEO. “Most outside organizations show up and don’t stay. One part of what we’re doing is showing the kids and their families that we sincerely care and will continue to be a part of the community for a long, long time. We’ve seen enormous progress, with a start of just a few kids coming in the door on an occasional basis to over 1200 kids visiting the Center last year—many on a regular schedule. Everyone, including our Board and the many donors who support us, appreciates the results we’re seeing on the reservation. Our growth has been phenomenal and the success at Warm Springs is the core reason for other tribes asking us to open centers for their kids. We’re grateful to the tribe of Warm Springs for the warm reception and the continued hospitality they offer. We see many good things in store for the youth there.” |