Hello Nune,

As we step into fall, we want to share an inspiring story that reflects the heart of our mission at Santa Maria Community Services. Sherry's journey with our Every Child Succeeds (ECS) program is a testament to the power of determination and the impact of support. Her story is a reminder that together, we can change lives for the better.

Speaking of reminders, don’t forget about our upcoming all-new fundraiser, "Passport to Success," where you can play a crucial role in helping families like Sherry's overcome obstacles and flourish through our programs. Passport to Success will be held on Thursday, October 5th, 6-9 p.m. at the Miami Twp Event Center (3780 Shady Lane 45052). Join us in making a meaningful impact by contributing to this event that empowers individuals and strengthens our community. Our special guest speaker is Dominique Badji, FC Cincinnati Forward, who will help us celebrate cultural diversity and inclusion in our community. Tickets may be purchased at bit.ly/PtoS23.

In addition to Passport to Success, we're thrilled to share that our next free Fall Health Fair is just around the corner, and we have an all-new venue to make it even more special. Join us at ARCO Cincy (3301 Price Avenue 45205) on Saturday, October 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to promote health, well-being, and community engagement. We look forward to seeing you there and creating memorable experiences together. And special thanks to all our 2023 sponsors who are listed below. If you would like to volunteer to help at this event, please email Lynne.Rinear@SantaMaria-Cincy.org.

Santa Maria will also be taking part in The Walk with Little Amal on Friday, September 22 at 3 p.m. at the Roebling Suspension Bridge (Covington side). Join us if you can. See the story below for all of the details. 

Finally, we are thrilled to once again be nominated for a 2023 BBB^® Torch Award for Ethics as well as two Nonprofit of the Year Awards from Cincy Magazine. You can read all about the Torch Awards in the story below. Santa Maria is nominated for Nonprofit of the Year by Cincy Magazine in two areas - under the Income Support & Employment category, we're nominated for Job Search/Placement, and in the Education category, we're nominated for Family Literacy Programs. We would greatly appreciate your vote! You can vote here daily until October 1st.

Thank you for your ongoing support, which allows us to continue making a difference in the lives of individuals and families in our community. We invite you to read Sherry's inspiring story in this month's newsletter and stay connected with us as we work together to build a brighter future.

Sincerely,

Building Dreams: Sherry's Road to a Safer Home

Sherry's life was transformed through Santa Maria Community Services' Every Child Succeeds (ECS) program. With Santa Maria's support, Sherry improved her family's living conditions and her parenting skills, driven by her love for her three children. Sherry's journey from adversity to a safer home in City West is a testament to resilience and support, while Santa Maria's help has enabled her to pursue her education. Please make a gift to Santa maria to help support families like Sherry's on their path to success.

Join us to Walk With Little Amal

Santa Maria will be participating in Walk With Amal on September 22 at 3 p.m. at the Roebling Suspension Bridge in Covington, Kentucky. We would love for YOU to join us in this symbolic walk across the bridge to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which will offer free admission and an array of free community resources, including Santa Maria.

We're honored to be a part of this transformative journey and we invite everyone to Walk With Amal on September 22 to serve as a poignant reminder of the power of unity, hope, and compassion.

Santa Maria is a Better Business Bureau^® Torch Awards for Ethics Finalist

Santa Maria has been named a 2023 Torch Awards for Ethics finalist by Better Business Bureau Cincinnati.

The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics is Greater Cincinnati’s premier ethics-centered awards program for businesses and nonprofits. For more than two decades, the iconic program has distinguished hundreds of local businesses and nonprofits of all sizes, from all industries. The 2023 Torch Awards finalists were selected by a panel of local business leaders for their character-driven operations, extraordinary workplace cultures, and dedication to the community.

Santa Maria was previously named a finalist multiple times and received the 2004 BBB Torch Award for Ethics, recognizing its exceptional commitment to ethics, integrity, and trust among employees, program participants, and the community.

“Being a finalist for the BBB Torch Awards reflects our commitment to ethics and fostering a positive team culture as we give back to our community. This recognition fuels our dedication to continue exceeding ethical standards in everything we do,” said H.A. Musser, Jr., President and CEO of Santa Maria Community Services. “We want to thank everyone who has been a part of our journey and supported us along the way. Together, we're making a positive impact in our community.”

Winning organizations will be revealed live onstage at the 2023 Torch Awards for Ethics and Spark Awards Gala on Wednesday, October 4, 5:30–8:30 p.m. at Cincinnati Art Museum. Torch Awards finalists will be honored at the event, as well as finalists and winners for the Spark Awards for new businesses and young entrepreneurs. Reserve your spot at the red-carpet awards gala today.

FC Cincinnati Fundraiser

Vamos FCC! Soccer is for everyone and you can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with FC Cincinnati at their annual Noche Latina match on September 23rd vs Charlotte FC. For every ticket sold a portion will be given back to Santa Maria! Get your group together and enjoy the game. When you purchase tickets at this link, you'll receive a unique link to share with friends so you can sit together in section 230. The purchase deadline is September 18th!