At Elmcrest Children’s Center, we don’t just provide care—we help children and families rewrite their stories. Every child and family who walks through our doors carries with them a unique journey, often marked by challenges and hardship. But with the right support, their stories can take a hopeful turn toward brighter futures.

This year, through our Annual Appeal, we invite you to join us in transforming lives. Your gift has the power to make a real difference, as shown in the heartfelt journeys below.

Make a Gift Today to help us rewrite more stories of hope, resilience, and success.

Hi, I’m Rylan, and this is my story.

When I first got to Elmcrest, I was honestly all over the place. I had a ton of confusion in my head and felt super lost. I’d been dealing with mental health stuff for a while, and every time, it felt like the only option was going to a hospital. But Elmcrest was different.

Their Children’s Crisis Respite was like this safe spot where I could just breathe and try to get my head on straight without having to drop everything else in my life. The people there actually saw me for who I am and really cared.

They welcomed me in and stuck with me, helping me keep up with school and the sports I love. After a few weeks, things that felt like a total mess started to make a little more sense. My therapist showed me different ways to deal with my feelings and that totally changed everything for me.

My name is Destiny, and this is my story.

Growing up, I faced a lot of challenges that made me feel like I was constantly catching up. But Elmcrest’s Managed Care staff were there for me from the beginning, and every step of the way. They didn’t just give me a one-size-fits-all plan—they truly listened and were by my side as I got older and changed.

From helping me work through tough times at home to giving me the tools I needed to succeed in school, they were always there to keep me moving forward.

This year, I graduated—something I used to think would never be possible. But thanks to Elmcrest, I’ve learned that with the right help, I can keep rewriting my story, no matter what comes next. Elmcrest gave me more than care; they gave me my future.

I’m Jerome, and this is my story.

When I was a kid, I was headed down a tough road. Life was chaotic, and I felt like my future was already written.

But then I came to Elmcrest, and everything started to change. They gave me a safe place, structure, and people who genuinely cared about me. I began to see that my story didn’t have to end the way I was always afraid it would.

Through their guidance, I found purpose and direction. Today, I’m proud to say I own a construction company and have a great family of my own. I often think about where I’d be without Elmcrest—in jail, or worse, maybe not here at all. They helped me rewrite my story, and that saved my life. Elmcrest isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a place that changes lives.

My name is Diane, and this is my story.

More than twenty years ago, I stood alongside other parents facing the unique, often overwhelming challenges of raising children with severe disabilities. For my son, Alex, his care was a full-time, around-the-clock commitment. While every parent loves their child deeply, the weight of managing complex medical needs, therapies, and daily care left us feeling extremely isolated and exhausted. The idea of a safe, home-like setting that could provide quality, short-term relief from the overwhelming care, where our children could also build social connections and experience joy, became our shared vision.

With incredible support from our community, this dream became a reality. In 2004, we opened Casey’s Place—a home away from home that has been life-changing for families like mine. Driven by the profound impact Casey’s Place had on my family, I became the director. I wanted other families to feel the same relief and peace of mind that I had found for my family.

As the new Executive Director, it is my privilege to build on Elmcrest’s legacy of impact.

Your Gift, Their Story

Every story shared here is a testament to the power of community, care, and generosity. Through this year’s Annual Appeal, you can help provide safe spaces, vital programs, and caring guidance for more children and families in need.

Together, we can give children and families the fresh starts they deserve. Thank you for believing in the power of rewriting stories.