Staff Writer
HOULTON — Moving forward to support youth in need are the steps being taken by one organization in town. Stepping Stones has been working toward providing a safe place for youth who are considered at risk need the extra boost toward being on the right track.
Pioneer Times photo/Jennifer Ruth
RIBBON CUTTING — Officials with Stepping Stones honored their contributors with this brick wall on their Military Street location. The bricks were part of a fund-raiser for the groups’ youth programs. From left are: Charles Daly, Luetta Goodall, Stephanie Mitchell and Mark Askren.
Officials from Stepping Stones recognized their efforts by highlighting a brick wall, which was constructed through generous donations received from residents and businesses throughout town.
Three years ago the organization was down on its funding and they were looking for a way to raise money. Luetta Goodall, director of Stepping Stones said selling the bricks was what they chose to do.
“We had run out of funding so we were trying to come up with an idea to raise money because we needed to finish the outside easement right here where the bricks are,” she explained. “We’re just thrilled that the bricks are in the ground and people can come and walk by and celebrate that these bricks are helping to buy permanency and services for youth in need.”
Approximately 50 bricks make up the wall that runs adjacent to Military Street. Connie VanDykes was the first person to purchase a brick and Goodall said it was special to have her present during their ribbon-cutting ceremony held last Thursday.
Another highlight of the day was the fact the ceremony was being held during the same day as their third annual gala event.
“This is an opportunity for the girls to get their hair done and dressed up,” explained Goodall. “They also get to socialize and show off their skills.”
Susan York is a teacher with Stepping Stones and she said that people need to understand that there’s more going on than meets the eye. She said the organization is working for the good of all the people who live in Houlton and its surrounding areas.
“It’s really great that so many people believe in the programs that we do,” explained York. “It helps so many youth every day and it’s helping generations, not just this one generation.”
For more information on Stepping Stones call 532-6689 or online at www.stepstones4youth.org or mail them at P.O. Box 189, Houlton, ME., 04730.
