Aspire December Newsletter: Gratitude

STARTING THE HOLIDAY WITH GRATITUDE

As we pause this week in reflection of the holidays, we want to take a moment to consider the many gifts we have been given. Of course, we are eternally thankful that many Aspire authored proposals were funded this year, at the state, federal and private level – thank you Grantors! We are so happy to see these projects create jobs and economic growth as our country struggles to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a true honor to serve our clients and we thank you for the opportunity! That said, here are a few notes of gratitude as overheard in our staff meetings this month!

This year, I am thankful to be able to have a "normal" holiday and enjoy traditions that have been put on hold for the past two years. – Katie Quinn

I am thankful for all the success our firm has had over this year and seeing some of our projects finalized. I am additionally thankful for being able to take time to relax and spend with family. – Brooke Sheeler

I am thankful for the opportunity to continue to work for Aspire. The additional income has helped with much needed home improvements. I am also grateful for all of our wonderful clients. We wouldn’t be here without all of you! Thank you for another successful year! – Sarah Russell

This year, I am thankful for the joining of two loving families! My fiancé’s family and my family were able to spend both Thanksgiving and Christmas together this year (thanks to the generous time off provided by Aspire!). Pictured here is me and my future sister-in-law toasting to a prosperous year! I wake up thankful every day to get to work with such amazing coworkers and clients! – Lauren Palmar

I am thankful that Tuffy Shallenberger asked me to attend a meeting in Connellsville, leading me to stop at Rural King where I found a camel for the Live Nativity (which raised almost $6,000 for charity). I am also thankful that Governor Wolf awarded RACP grants before December 24! I am also thankful to work with Cindy Citrone because her mental health initiatives give me strength when I need it! – Michele Beener

SOUTH ALBANY, GEORGIA NO LONGER A FOOD DESERT

Residents of South Albany now have a new option for finding fresh produce, meats, seafood, deli, prepared meals and a variety of grocery staples with the “soft opening” this week of Food For Less in South Albany, Georgia. Michele has had the honor of working on this project for the last 16 months, together with the City of Albany, JP Properties and Food for Less Albany, Inc./Piggly Wiggly.

Located at 1032 W. Gordon Ave. at the intersection of South Slappey Boulevard and West Gordon Avenue, the new Food For Less is affiliated with Piggly Wiggly and offers convenience and a range of food choices at discount prices for residents in an underserved area of the city. The City was left without food access when the prior grocer closed, due in part to damage by Hurricane Michael in 2018. Happy Holidays, Albany!