Dear STARS Families & Friends,
As we close out this chapter of the year, I want to take a moment to share a few updates—straight from the heart. Since stepping into the Executive Director role last summer, this past year has been one of tremendous growth, tough challenges, and, above all, incredible teamwork.
We’ve weathered some storms—statewide funding delays, a surprise flood at our Osborn campus—but what stands out most is how our staff, members, and community rallied together. Because of that shared effort, STARS is stepping into FY26 with renewed momentum and a clear sense of optimism.
Looking ahead, our focus is simple and powerful: refresh our spaces, expand our programs, and reconnect with our community in meaningful ways.
Here are just a few things I’m especially excited about:
We’re financially stronger. After a tough year, we’ve made meaningful progress toward long-term stability—putting us in a strong position to invest, innovate, and dream even bigger for our members.
Creativity is thriving in Day Training! We recently wrapped up our first-ever workshop series with Detour Theatre Company, offering weekly performance sessions that brought out confidence, joy, and communication in ways only the arts can. While we’re taking a short summer break during Detour’s show season, we’re excited to welcome them back this fall for another round!
New services are on the horizon. We’ve been approved to launch Work Adjustment Training (WAT)—a new VR-funded program that helps participants build skills and earn wages as they prepare for employment.
A new social enterprise is in the works. As part of WAT, we’re planning to launch the Osborn Digitization Lab—a document scanning and digital archiving initiative starting with STARS’ own historical archives (dating back to 1973!). This project not only preserves our legacy but creates paid, skill-building opportunities for our members.
Group Supported Employment is expanding. We’re relaunching this service in the fall to open more doors to integrated, meaningful employment for those we serve.
We’re reimagining our space. We’ve begun planning a phased remodel of our Osborn campus, starting with long-overdue updates to the bathrooms, kitchen, and dining areas—creating a more functional and welcoming environment for everyone.
And last, but not least, exploring a first-ever STARS Spring Carnival for 2026!
This exciting new event is all about bringing our STARS families, friends, and supporters together for a joyful, community-centered celebration. Think fun, connection, and a whole lot of STARS spirit—it’s going to be a day to remember!
To everyone who’s stood by us during this past year: thank you. Your patience, support, and belief in our mission have been the bedrock of our progress. FY26 isn’t just about programs or budgets—it’s about recommitting to our shared vision of a joyful, inclusive, and vibrant STARS community.
With Gratitude,
Claudia Chavez, STARS Executive Director
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