Letter from the President

Executive Committee

The Very Reverend Barkley Thompson, Chairman Alisa Stamp Mengwasser, President Bess Wareing, Vice President Mike Grimes, Treasurer Gay Gulledge, Secretary William Randall, Past President Gregory Funderburk Catherine Fowler McDonald

Board Members

Fredricka Brecht Ann Tyrrell Cochran Ben Colodney Bradley B. Dennison Rev. Alex Graham III Mary Hankey Harry C. Pinson Loretta Ray Susan Reeves Andrew Roff Alan Stuckert Robert H. Thurmond, III Paul Yale Dan Moore Rice Business Board Fellow

Advisory Board

The Right Reverend C. Andrew Doyle Deborah Duncan Rochon Hall Elena Marks John Nau Matthew Oren Courtney Sarofim Charles Tate

Dear Friends,

As The Beacon enters its 15th year serving those most in need, I am thrilled to report that it continues to thrive as a respected and vital partner within Houston’s Homeless response system - the Continuum of Care. I am so proud of the great work we have done in the past year! Each of our programs has much to celebrate – for instance: 2,380 housing assessments completed via the Day Center; more than 400 individuals were able to clear their criminal records thanks to Beacon Law; and 100% percent of Brigid’s Hope graduates transitioned to stable homes. These numbers represent lives changed!

This impact would not be possible without the 11,000+ hours donated by our many dedicated volunteers, and the extraordinary generosity of our donors. It is through this support that the vital and life-changing work of The Beacon is accomplished. You are essential to our mission, and so, so appreciated!

The good work we are doing is being noticed throughout the country! This year we have conducted tours and shared our story with government officials as well as media representatives who see our work as an example to other cities for how to meet the issue of homelessness – which is growing increasingly dire – with compassion and results.

We are preparing carefully and thoughtfully for the future. We are scanning the landscape and listening to stakeholders to create a vision and, importantly, a plan. Through this we will rise to meet the changing needs of our clients and community, while remaining true to our mission.

As I write this note, I am making my own plans to celebrate my son’s high school graduation. While joyfully reflecting upon his achievements and prayerfully anticipating his future, I am similarly reflecting on and anticipating The Beacon’s incredible accomplishments and bright future. And as I prepare to let go of a beloved child, I am also preparing to pass on the leadership of The Beacon Board to the next Board President, Bess Wareing.

Though transitions can be bittersweet, I could not be more excited and optimistic for what is to come! I know that The Beacon is in great hands, and that, with the support of individuals such as you, it will continue its critical work to Restore Hope and Help End Homelessness in Houston.

In Gratitude,

Alisa Stamp Mengwasser Beacon Board President