SPRING NEWSLETTER
At MountainStar, we are reflecting on the unwavering strength and resilience of the community we serve. In recent times, various policy changes have influenced areas such as early childhood education funding and nonprofit grant structures. While these developments present both challenges and opportunities, MountainStar remains steadfast in our mission to prevent child abuse and neglect through comprehensive family support and therapeutic services.
We recognize that robust communities are built on local engagement and support. Our immediate networks—neighbors, local businesses, and community partners—are the backbone of our work. And a shout out to volunteers who lift us up daily! Your combined efforts raise both community awareness and critical funds across the region. By investing in each other, we create a resilient community.
At MountainStar, we know that investing in our local community is essential. Supporting families leads to a ripple effect of positive change, enhancing the well-being of all. And at the heart of this work is you—our dedicated donors. It is your generosity, commitment, and belief in our mission that makes this work possible. Your efforts ensure that children are safe, families receive the support they need, and our programs continue to thrive.
Because of you, families facing overwhelming stress find relief. Because of you, children receive the strong start they need. Because of you, MountainStar continues to be a beacon of hope
for so many. Your support is not just a donation— it is an investment in the future of our community, creating lasting change for generations to come.
As we move forward together, let us reaffirm our commitment to each other and to the future we are building. By strengthening our local bonds and investing in our community, we ensure a brighter future for all.
With heartfelt gratitude,
KARA TACHIKAWA Executive Director MountainStar Family Relief Nursery
300+
Children and families served annually across all five MountainStar locations
1000+
Home visits offering direct support to families in crisis
3100+
Hours of therapeutic early childhood classes provided last year
5400+
Volunteer hours contributed by our dedicated community
400+
Boxes of diapers distributed to families with infants and toddlers
You ensure these numbers continue to grow, thank you!
The Power of Local Investment: HOW OUR COMMUNITY CREATES LASTING CHANGE
At MountainStar, we see firsthand how community support transforms lives— providing stability for families, hope for parents, and a strong foundation for children to thrive. Your investment in our mission and the resilience it fosters across Central Oregon is priceless.
Check out our Ways to Give at mtstar.org/ways-to-give to ensure you are taking full advantage of viable opportunities to join us in keeping kids safe, healthy, and strong.
A FAMILY STORY: BREAKING THE CYCLE
For years, Jake struggled with unstable housing, limited access to care, and the overwhelming responsibility of raising his twoyear-old son alone. Without a support system, he felt trapped in survival mode, unsure of how to create a better future. When he found MountainStar, everything changed.
Through parenting classes and mental health resources, Jake gained the tools and confidence to build a stable life for his son. He completed a job training program, secured safe housing, and today, his child is thriving in a nurtured, loving environment.
“MountainStar didn’t just help my son—they helped me become the father I always wanted to be.”
– Jake, MountainStar Parent
Jake’s story is a testament to the power of investing in families. Your support isn’t just changing lives today—it’s breaking cycles for generations to come.
JOIN US IN BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY
You can be part of this ongoing impact by:
Becoming a monthly donor to provide consistent, long-term support.
Making a gift from your Donor Advised Fund or IRA.
Creating a Legacy Gift for long-term stability.
Volunteering your time at one of our centers.
Attending our upcoming Birdies 4 Babies fundraiser.
Advocating for MountainStar’s mission.
Your support today is a step toward a stronger, more resilient tomorrow. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to grow up safe, supported, and ready to thrive.
Partner Spotlight: LOCAL BUSINESSES MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Community partnerships strengthen the foundation of our work. This year, we celebrate the generous support of local businesses like First Interstate Bank, whose commitment to MountainStar ensures families receive essential supplies, and Plateau Forest Products, whose annual partnership helps sustain our Relief Nursery services.
Investing in MountainStar is an investment in the future of the entire community. By working together, we create a safety net that uplifts children, supports families, and strengthens our region for generations to come. Check out our Partners for Kids (P4K) program at mtstar.org/p4K to participate with these great community partners.
2125 NE Daggett Lane, Bend, OR 97701 MtStar.org | info@mtstar.org
MountainStar Bend: (541) 322-6820
MountainStar Redmond: (541) 527-1025
MountainStar La Pine: (541) 213-6502
MountainStar Madras: (541) 475-2537
MountainStar Prineville: (541) 416-0146
APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH
...at MountainStar, it’s what we do every day, all year long. We get involved with families facing tough challenges at a time when it matters most – the first 1,000 days of their child’s life. Children attend therapeutic early childhood classes designed for babies and toddlers who often live in high-stress homes, and we know that stress can make it harder for caretakers to respond to their children’s needs. MountainStar’s staff and volunteers create a safe and predictable environment to respond to the unique needs of each child in our program.
11,191 Central Oregon children were victims of abuse and neglect in 2023.
Children served by MountainStar remain safe