Dear Friends, Supporters, and Community Members

As we step into 2026 with hearts full of gratitude and anticipation, all of us at Thrive Community Services want to extend our warmest New Year's wishes to you. This past year has been a testament to the power of community, resilience, and shared joy, and we are profoundly thankful for the role you've played in making it so memorable.

Together, we've created moments that not only enriched the lives of the adults with intellectual and

developmental disabilities we serve but also strengthened the fabric of Knox County.

Looking back on 2025, we're filled with pride at the vibrant events and activities that brought us closer as a

community. In April, our 18th annual auction fundraiser, themed "Spring Break in the Roaring Twenties," brought

laughter, bidding excitement, and generous support, helping us advance our mission. Summer shone brightly with Camp Kidz, where children and young adults from Knox, Warren, and Henderson Counties explored, learned, and formed lasting friendships in a safe, inclusive environment.

The fall brought even more highlights, from the Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting of our new Fremont

Street location to our "Howl at the Moon - A Night of Dueling Pianos" fundraiser in November. What about all of

the incredible trips our staff and participants took across our great county and beyond? Our Turkey Trot & Turkey

Shot event was a resounding success, filled with fun and teamwork among staff and members of the Gordon

Behrents Senior Center. And in December, we had the honor of celebrating our veteran staff members with Quilts of Valor, a touching tribute to their service that reminded us of all of the heroes among us.

These moments weren't just events; they were lifelines of hope, fostering independence, purpose, and belonging

for over 300 individuals we support through our community day services, employment programs, SOAR respite,

and senior center activities. Your involvement—whether through attendance, donations, or simply spreading the

word—made them possible, and for that, we are deeply appreciative.

This year holds special significance for us: 2026 marks our 70th anniversary! Founded in December 1956 by a

courageous group of parents determined to create better opportunities for their children, Thrive has grown into a

beacon of empowerment. We're thrilled about what's ahead—a year packed with innovative programs, expanded

services, staff development initiatives, and community-wide celebrations that will honor our legacy while building

a brighter future. From enhanced recreational spaces to new partnerships that amplify our impact, we're

committed to ensuring everyone we touch continues to thrive.

Yet, as we embark on this milestone year, we humbly ask for your continued support. Your contributions—big or

small—fuel our ability to provide these essential services and create lasting change. Imagine the next 70 years:

more stories of triumph, more families empowered, more community bonds unbreakable. By partnering with us in 2026, you're not just donating; you're investing in a legacy of hope that touches lives every day. Together, we can ensure Thrive remains a vital force for generations to come.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in us, for standing by our side, and for helping us turn

possibilities into realities. Here's to a year of growth, joy, and endless thriving.

With sincere gratitude and optimism, Thrive Community Services