Mission Forward | MSDC 2025 Impact & 60th Anniversary Vision
As we close out another meaningful year at Marshall-Starke Development Center, I want to extend my sincere gratitude for your generosity, your trust, and your continued belief in the people we serve. Your support has propelled our work forward in ways that are both measurable and deeply personal. Every gift, every partnership, and every moment of involvement helped shape a year defined by growth, connection, and possibility.
2025 was a transformative year for MSDC. With the launch of our new Mission Advancement Department, we set out to strengthen our outreach, elevate our brand, and build the type of community partnerships that create long-term impact. I am proud to share that together, we made meaningful progress toward those goals.
Three accomplishments stand out:
1. Strengthened and targeted marketing and branding
This year marked a new era of visibility for MSDC. Through intentional storytelling and updated branding, we were able to communicate our mission with clarity, consistency, and heart. Our message reached more families, businesses, and partners—many of whom were hearing about MSDC for the first time.
2. Meaningful relationships with local businesses
We are at the beginning of a very promising chapter with our local business community. This year, we started laying the groundwork for new partnerships through early conversations, sponsorship inquiries, and volunteer interest. While these relationships are still forming, the enthusiasm we’ve seen so far is encouraging and reflects a shared desire to support our participants and programs. We are excited to continue building on this foundation in the year ahead.
3. Re-engaging lapsed donors
One of the most encouraging outcomes this year was reconnecting with individuals and partners who have supported MSDC in years past. Their return reflects both the strength of our mission and the renewed energy surrounding our organization’s direction.
As we look ahead, I am filled with optimism for what is coming next.
2026 will be a milestone year—MSDC’s 60th Anniversary.
This celebration is more than an event. It is a reflection of six decades of advocacy, opportunity, and community impact. We are honored to steward that legacy, and we are equally focused on building the next chapter.
In the year ahead, we are excited to introduce several initiatives that will continue to strengthen our mission:
• The launch of our new Sponsorship Program
This will provide local businesses and partners with new pathways to support our work in a meaningful and sustainable way. It is designed to be mutually beneficial, transparent, and accessible, creating year-round opportunities for community investment.
• Expanding partnerships and welcoming new donors
Our outreach efforts are growing, and with that growth comes new conversations, new connections, and new possibilities. Mission Advancement is committed to stewarding these relationships with intention and care.
• Our 60th Anniversary Annual Event
This celebration will highlight the extraordinary individuals who shaped our past and the participants who continue to inspire our future. It will also allow us to share our vision for the next 60 years of innovation, inclusion, and hope.
As we conclude this annual appeal, I want to thank you again for the role you play in our mission. Your support allows us to continue providing life-changing opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across our community. It ensures that families feel supported, participants feel valued, and our programs remain strong.
If you feel called to give, we welcome your support. If you are unable to give at this time, simply staying connected and sharing our mission also makes a tremendous impact. Every form of involvement matters.
We are grateful to have you with us as we step into this next chapter. The future of MSDC is bright, and your partnership helps make that possible.
With gratitude,
Jessye Gilley
Vice President of Mission Advancement
Marshall-Starke Development Center