Fall 2023 Newsletter
A LETTER FROM OUR CEO
Dear Tennyson Community,
As the crisp autumn leaves blanket the ground and the air begins to take on a refreshing chill, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for 2023 and excitement for the year ahead. Over the past few months, we have introduced innovative programs and new faces, driving the heart of our organization. These achievements are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our incredible team. As we navigate the changing seasons, I want to share recent highlights and updates with you, our invaluable supporters.
Tennyson’s Residential Program is a warm welcome back to our community. We currently provide trauma-informed services for boys and girls, 6 to 12 years old, with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and co-occurring mental health challenges. Tennyson offers a safe and therapeutic space where children can begin the healing process.
It is a pleasure to introduce our refreshed mission, vision, and values shared below that will guide our organization into the future. Our mission reflects our commitment to our children and families, serving as our North Star, guiding every initiative and decision we make. Our vision is a bold and inspiring glimpse into the future we aspire to create. At the heart of Tennyson Center are our core values, which define who we are and how we operate. These values guide our interactions, collaborations, and decision-making processes.
Change is inevitable, and we embrace it as an opportunity for growth and evolution. As we head into the new year, we are excited to celebrate the 120th anniversary of Tennyson Center for Children. In anticipation of the yearlong festivities, we would love to see your stories, memories, and photos to capture our incredible journey over the years. Please share via [email protected].
Thank you for being an integral part of the Tennyson Center family. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I want to express my deepest appreciation for each of you. Your unwavering support, whether through volunteer efforts, donations, or simply spreading the word about our cause, fuels the engine of positive change. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives of those we serve. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback. Please feel free to reach out to me directly or connect with our team.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and fulfilling holiday season.
With gratitude,
Mindy Watrous
President & CEO
MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES
Our Mission
Improve the mental health and wellness of those impacted by trauma and other adverse experiences.
Our Vision
Everyone has the opportunity and support needed to learn, grow, and thrive.
Our Values
Joyful, Compassionate, Curious, Authentic, Dependable
OPERATION GIVING
Operation Giving is more than a toy drive, it’s a joy drive! We are so grateful for the generous support of this vital program from our community. Whether it’s dropping off toys or household items, volunteering to wrap presents with a child, or a monetary gift, your contribution makes this annual program a highlight for our kids and families.
1904 SOCIETY
The 1904 Society is a group of compassionate young professionals committed to providing resources for kids and families impacted by neglect, abuse, and trauma. Named for the year that Tennyson Center was founded, members better our community through their creativity and connections to raise critical awareness and funds. They host peer-to-peer fundraisers, help organize or participate in volunteer days through their employer, support Tennyson events, and make an impact on the lives of those we serve.
Our next gathering is Friday, December 15 at Tennyson Center. Volunteers will participate in the annual Operation Giving by helping students shop and wrap gifts for their family members or loved ones. To learn more about this new monthly giving society, please contact Cydnee Dossey.
Colorado Gives Day
Colorado Gives Day is the one day a year Coloradans come together to lift up our local communities. Donate anytime between now and December 5 and your gift will be matched by generous sponsors and receive part of an Incentive Fund made possible by Colorado Gives Foundation and FirstBank.
In 2022, Tennyson Center benefitted from more than 100,000 donors who supported 3,400 local nonprofits, raising $53 million to help our communities thrive. How much good can we create in 2023?!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
The physical improvements to Tennyson’s therapeutic garden continue! Denver Urban Gardens has committed to three years volunteering to improve therapy gardens across Colorado. They are working with Tennyson on a complete redesign of our garden space and contributed 92 hours in October alone! The planned completion date is spring 2024.
Recent additions include a connecting pathway for improved accessibility, garden arbors for shade, and other upgraded physical elements. The new design will also include a bug hotel, musical instruments, a sensory garden, improved signage, and many activities. The vision is to create a space that supports all our clients and meets their needs. Please contact Nick Wininger to learn more.
EVENTS & HAPPENINGS
VOLUNTEER
Your support makes a difference and has a direct impact on the lives of those who need us most.
SAVE THE DATE
Join us at the annual Paths to Healing Spring Luncheon on April 18. Stay tuned for more information.
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