Letter from the Executive Director:

As we begin this historic journey in our Organization, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for the many gifts that you bring to our Organization and our recipients. Nia Association recognizes that everything we have is a gift from a good and gracious God. Servitude is a way of life—a caring attitude that builds a strong and vibrant community.

Nia Association is growing rapidly and we are uniquely blessed. We are challenged with keeping pace with the needs and concerns of those whom we serve. Our Organization has reached a point where we must have a plan to accommodate growth and change, as well as leave a legacy for the generations to come.

Nia Association has taken proactive steps during several years of planning and discussion to ensure that we better meet needs. But, we would be remiss if we did not acknowledge that the budget cuts with The State of Tennessee have seriously impacted the manner in which we conduct business. Therefore, we have embarked on a first-ever capital campaign – Thriving and Surviving in a Changing Economy. This $100,000 effort will play a critical role in transforming our Organization for years to come.

The Thriving and Surviving in a Changing Economy campaign will, upon its successful completion, make our Organization ever more vital for those around us by:

• Creating dedicated funds for the enhancement of services and supports for our service recipients who, not only have compromised health needs, but also limited income.
  
  
• Strengthening the monetary base that enables us to aid in providing housing for the low to moderate income who seek assistance. This aid will also enable us to continue to enhance and repair the rental homes after vacancies and prior to occupancy by new tenants.
  
  
• Supporting area initiatives such as the FUEL Program that combats hunger for area students.
  
  
• Providing additional funding for youth programs. We recognize that there must be community connectivity for the leaders of tomorrow.
  
  
• Continuing to serve as an employment network for those seeking employment in an ever-changing but fulfilling field of healthcare and service.
  
  

The Thriving and Surviving in a Changing Economy campaign is necessary if we are to have a strong and vital presence for the future and meet the growing needs of today. Can we count on your for financial support? We encourage you to visit our profile on givingmatters.com and make a generous donation. There is a donation button located in the top right hand corner that will allow you to make the donation. I can not think of a better cause and I know that those whom we support will appreciate it. By contribution to Nia’s capital campaign, you'll be recognized as a donor in upcoming issues of our newsletter. You'll also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your generosity will help make life less stressful for those affected by intellectual disabilities, homelessness and other perils that plague their day-to day existence.

As we approach our 13th Anniversary, let us embrace this work together. With God’s help it will strengthen our beloved Organization for many years to come.

Wishing you God’s blessings as we continue the work that he has called us to do.

Sincerely,

Cheryl Durham
Executive Director