by Katrina King Focused and determined are two adjectives that I would use to describe Tamara Hudgins, Executive Director of Girlstart.  She stared COVID straight in the eyes and figured out ways to keep this nonprofit thriving and serving to increase girls’ interest and engagement in STEM by providing year-round programs that inspire girls to pursue STEM majors and careers and to see STEM as a way to solve problems that chance the world.   Tamara’s motto is to “make it through —  or make it through strong!” and this year they are exceeding at making it through strong. With the virus affecting their ability to meet together in person, Girlstart quickly re-imagined what thei...

It is said that “Necessity is the Mother of Invention,” and that is how our virtual Grant Awards Night and Annual Meeting came about. On March 15th, the CDC issued guidance to postpone or cancel events of more than 50 people, which prompted us to reconsider our plans for our May 7th event at Berry Creek Country Club. I convened a video conference with the Committee Chairs to brainstorm alternatives.   As you know, Grant Awards Night is the culmination of our year’s work. At this event, we distribute our donations, as grants, to local nonprofits.  And with the impact of COVID-19, it was never more important to fund their projects. Within a week, the Board approved moving our event to...

by Babs Cape – Aging brings more than aches and pains and gray hair. Without funds enough for daily living, aging can create a sense of loss, fear and hopelessness. The Caring Place (TCP) assists our aging community in a special way, and Seeds of Strength is part of making that possible. TCP’s program, SENIOR INDEPENDENCE PROGRAM (SIP), began two years ago. The goal for SIP is to provide overall basic-needs support to 600 individuals, age 65 or older, with any type of assistance provided by the Caring Place, which includes financial and non-financial assistance. Its goal is also to provide case-management support to 75 individuals, age 65 or older. Identifying those in need, an...

by Babs Cape – An abused child pulls at our heart strings. How can we help children suspected of sexual abuse, severe physical abuse or those who have witnessed a violent crime? Where is a safe place for young victims to disclose their abuse? Who knows how to comfort them while working for justice and safety? Recently, ten Seeds of Strength members learned from advocates for young people when we visited the Williamson County Child Advocacy Center. These child-trained professionals receive suspected victims from law enforcement agencies, Child Protective Services and prosecutors. With one-on-one forensic interviews and medical exams, all in a non-intimidating manner, the extent of...