Reflecting on the Past and the Future

In 2003, my daughter and I volunteered at St. Louis Society’s weeklong Sports Camp. I thought it would be fun and a good experience for my daughter to serve others. Little did I know the impact that one week would have on my life.

We met Patricia and participated in camp activities with her throughout the week. And, for the next eight summers! Somewhere along the way I became involved with a fundraiser for the agency and was asked to serve on the Board of Directors, which I did until the summer of 2011. In August 2011, I found a new career when I was blessed to join the staff of St. Louis Society – our name at that time.

This ten-year milestone pales in comparison to the agency which will mark its 95th year in operation in a few months. The agency has certainly evolved over the years. From our start as a provider of orthopedic, clinical and in-home educational services, to our current vision to ensure individuals experience a meaningful and inclusive community life. We began as an agency for children, but we have been serving adults for more than 50 years.

While 2022 will surely bring some challenges, we look forward to expanding our after school program in partnership with Promise Christian Academy. We will also provide youth with more day camp opportunities throughout the year. Adult clients will continue to be “Out & About” in the St. Louis area.

It is a tremendous privilege to work with people that have a tremendous respect for our past and a wonderful vision for our future. We look forward to serving people today and for MANY years to come. I hope you will join us on this journey.

Best wishes for a happy new year!

Karen Schuster, CEO