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Dear Friends of Ryther,
When people think about therapy for children and youth, laughter, play, and adventure may not be the first things that come to mind. But this summer, Ryther’s campus has been full of all three.
Across our programs, youth have been building skills in ways that feel engaging and accessible. In our Aspiring Youth summer camps, participants explore interests like art, drama, Dungeons & Dragons, and Lego building while practicing communication, cooperation, perspective-taking, and self-expression in an environment that celebrates their unique strengths.
Those in our outpatient programs have spent time learning and practicing skills to manage emotions and anxiety through play, activities, and time outdoors. In our Partial Hospitalization Programs, group and individual counseling have taken place on the basketball court, the challenge course, during walks around campus, and even under the cherry trees.
For young people facing mental health, substance use, or behavioral challenges, therapy should meet them where they are. It should engage them and provide meaningful ways to build the skills they need for the life they want.
This summer has been a wonderful reminder that healing, growth, and even a little fun can go hand in hand.
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Karen Brady
Executive Director/CEO
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NEW AT RYTHER
The Juniper Program: Mood & Anxiety
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This year, Ryther launched Juniper, our first intensive services program created specifically for teens ages 14–17. Juniper brings together support for both mood and anxiety challenges, giving teens a place to work through what they’re experiencing, build practical skills, and find ways to feel more confident in their everyday lives.
With both Intensive Outpatient (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization (PHP) options, Juniper offers different levels of support based on what each teen needs. It’s an important addition to Ryther’s continuum of care, making sure teens have access to the right level of support when they need more than traditional outpatient therapy.
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Margot's Story Continues!
Thursday, October 15
Sheraton Grand Seattle
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At first glance, you see a young skateboarder with a bright smile, colorful pads, and the confidence to try something new. What you don’t see is the journey that brought her here. Five years ago, Margot began receiving services at Ryther during a difficult time for her family. With early intervention, a caring therapist, and ongoing support, she’s grown into a resilient young girl who embraces new adventures, including skateboarding.
This October, Margot and her mom, Jenna, will share their story at Rise with Ryther and talk about the difference early support made in their family’s life. Their story is a powerful reminder that when children are heard early, they can heal, grow, and thrive.
Register below to hear Margot and Jenna’s story at Rise with Ryther!
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Volunteers in Action
Windermere Makes a Lasting Impact
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More than 40 volunteers. One day. A lasting difference.
This summer, more than 40 volunteers from Windermere Wedgwood and Windermere Sand Point helped transform the Ryther campus during Windermere’s annual Community Service Day. They spread mulch, cleared weeds, refreshed play spaces, and helped create a more welcoming space for children and families. We’re grateful to Laura Smith and everyone who rolled up their sleeves to support Ryther.
Want to Volunteer? Ryther welcomes individuals, service clubs, community groups, and companies looking for meaningful ways to give back. Opportunities include campus beautification projects, special events, seasonal activities, and more.
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Trustee Spotlight
Celebrating Sabrina Friend
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For more than two decades, Sabrina Friend has helped shape Ryther’s future as a Ryther League volunteer, Board Trustee, fundraiser, and advocate. To celebrate her 20th year on Ryther’s Board of Trustees, Sabrina and her husband, Bill, made an extraordinary gift in support of Ryther’s mission. When asked what continues to inspire her after all these years, her answer was simple: “It always goes back to the kids.”
Thank you, Sabrina, for 20 years of leadership, generosity, and unwavering belief in the power of healing.
| | Your support makes everything at Ryther possible. Whether it’s attending an event, volunteering, or visiting our campus, there are many ways to be part of our mission. Every connection helps children and families access the care and support they need to thrive. You can also follow us on social media ( Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube ) to share our work and help spread Ryther’s mission. Join us and make a difference today! | | |
Connie's Lasting Gift
Supporting Ryther for Generations
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For more than 60 years, Connie DelMissier has been part of the Ryther family, from baking birthday cakes and assembling holiday baskets to organizing the annual bazaar and helping plan more than 25 Noel Unit luncheons. Alongside her late husband, Dick, Connie chose to continue that commitment by including Ryther in their estate plans through the Mother Ryther Legacy Society.
“Our daily lives have been changed in wonderful and meaningful ways through our involvement at Ryther. We wanted to help ensure that children in our community will always have a place to find treatment, care, and hope.”
Connie encourages anyone considering a legacy gift to visit Ryther’s campus and see firsthand the life-changing work happening every day.
“I think you'll agree,” she says, “that a gift to Ryther is an excellent investment in the health of our youth and our community.”
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Plan for Tomorrow
A Charitable Gift Annuity allows you to support Ryther while receiving fixed payments for life. Depending on how your gift is funded, you may also qualify for valuable tax benefits.
New: Fund a Gift Annuity with Your IRA
If you are 70½ or older, you may make a one-time Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your IRA, up to $54,000, to establish a charitable gift annuity. This may allow you to:
- Receive fixed lifetime payments
- Exclude the transfer from taxable income
- Count the gift toward all or part of your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)
- Create a lasting legacy for children and families receiving care at Ryther
Whether through a will, beneficiary designation, or charitable gift annuity, a planned gift can help ensure future generations have access to mental health care when needed most.
To learn more about joining the Mother Ryther Legacy Society or establishing a charitable gift annuity, contact Donna Verretto or visit our planned giving website.
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