This year, children in Younity’s housing program experienced a holiday celebration filled with warmth and joy, including a special visit from Santa, made possible entirely through the generosity of Kay Lory and her husband, Don Rickert.
Together, Kay and Don donated every aspect of the celebration, from filled stockings for each child to cake, treats, and the many details that made the day feel festive and special.
Kay’s connection to Younity spans more than three decades. She began her career at the Safe House in 1989 as a Counselor Advocate and went on to serve in several leadership roles, including Director of Residential Services and Associate Executive Director. Over the years, her work helped shape programs, policies, and systems that allowed Younity to grow and better serve victim-survivors across our community.
Even after leaving Younity, Kay’s commitment to the mission has remained strong. This holiday season, she and Don chose to give back in a deeply personal way by creating a moment of joy and normalcy for children living in Younity’s housing program.
“The holidays can be an especially hard time for many families in our housing program,” said Janet Ginest, Housing Navigator. “A lot of folks feel adrift during this season. They feel very alone. Moments like this help remind them that they are not.”
The impact of the celebration was felt deeply by the families who attended.
“At the end of the party, one of our clients shared through tears how much the day meant to her,” said Geraldo Sierra, Program Coordinator of Transitional Housing. “She told us, ‘I can feel that you put your heart into this, and it means a lot. This feels like family to me.’”
We are deeply grateful to Kay and Don, and to all who help create moments of connection, care, and belonging for the families we serve.
