Expressing Appreciation

Did your mom make you write thank you notes after receiving birthday and Christmas gifts? UGH! As a kid, I dreaded this exercise. After all, I already said “thank you” in person and writing notes took so much time …. time I could have spent playing with all of my new treasures! But my mom insisted, and I would eventually stop procrastinating and write them.

Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful my mom taught me the importance of acknowledging the kindness and generosity of others. Saying thank you isn’t just about good manners. Gratitude multiplies joy. It reinforces the giver’s generosity, deepens relationships, and reminds people that what they did truly matters. Knowing a gift was appreciated and put to good use strengthens connection and inspires continued giving.

Nonprofits have countless opportunities to express gratitude—through donations, event participation, volunteerism, and community partnerships. And there are just as many meaningful ways to say thank you. Sometimes it’s a handwritten note that feels personal and lasting. Other times it’s a thoughtful email sent at just the right moment, or a phone call that allows someone to hear genuine appreciation in your voice. Public recognition through newsletters, social media, or events can shine a light on generosity and inspire others to get involved. No matter the format, the most powerful thank-yous are timely, authentic, and connected to impact. When people feel truly appreciated, they feel connected—and that connection is what sustains generosity and strengthens community.

And, speaking of community…

Each year the United Way of Greater St. Louis unites our community for their Annual Campaign. The campaign brings together individuals, workplaces, and community partners to support a network of local nonprofits addressing our region’s most pressing needs. Through collective giving, the campaign invests in programs that strengthen families, improve access to education, promote financial stability, and enhance health and well-being across the St. Louis area. Every contribution—large or small—helps ensure flexible, reliable funding that allows nonprofit partners to respond to community needs, create lasting impact, and build a stronger, more connected region for all.

LifeBridge Partnership has been honored to partner with United Way of Greater St. Louis since 1999. We are deeply grateful for their continued investment in our mission, including an allocation of nearly $100,000 for 2026. This stable, flexible funding allows us to reach more individuals, strengthen our programs, and expand opportunities for connection and belonging.

Thank you to United Way of Greater St. Louis for this enduring partnership—and to our entire community for supporting the annual campaign. Your generosity has a meaningful, lasting impact. Together, we are building brighter, more connected lives for children and adults with disabilities.

To learn more about how you can make a positive difference, visit www.lifebridgestl.org.

Karen Schuster, CEO