Every year at this time, I find myself thinking, “I can’t believe the year is almost over. I have so much to do!”  As the year comes to a close, it’s easy to focus on family celebrations, buying presents and making sure our homes are ready for the holidays. It’s a time of year steeped in tradition, and a way to create new memories.

What about creating a tradition of giving back?  As a mom of a 2-year-old, this is something that is immensely important to me.  I want my daughter to see my actions and know that the holidays are time for celebration – and to know that a great way to celebrate is to give back to others who are less fortunate, and to support the things we love that fulfill our lives.

How does Oasis fulfill your life?

Ann has taken nearly 600 Oasis classes over the years and leads a hiking group:

“I get to see parts of the city that I didn’t even know existed. The people are the loveliest you will ever meet. Plus, I love to exercise and be outside. I really don’t think there is a downside.”

Pat finds a sense of purpose working one-on-one with students as an Oasis tutor:

“My student was completing the page in the Oasis ‘All About Me’ book this week, which asks the student to write a note to her tutor. On that page she wrote ‘I love you.’  Over this past year I wasn’t sure if I was making progress, but her note said it all.”

Jane learned to use Skype in an Oasis computer class, giving her the ability to see and speak to her grandkids on the West Coast. Kathy loves her tap dance class, where she shares laughs and stays in shape.  Charlie enjoys discovering new places in the community and making new friends through Oasis outings.

These participants are among the nearly 130,000 people taking classes or volunteering with Oasis nationwide. 

Supporting Oasis

I feel privileged every day to provide people the opportunity to support the Oasis programs they know and love. Will you consider supporting Oasis this year with a donation? Please join us and continue your lifelong adventure.

If you would like to make a gift to Oasis, please visit www.oasisnet.org/donate today, or mail a contribution to your local office.  Thank you for considering Oasis among your charitable priorities.

To learn more about Oasis programs and their impact, check out our 2016 Annual Report.