BEAT BEAT THEHEAT! THE HEAT!
DRESSED FOR SUCCESS Workplace fashion... SALA style!!
POP BY!
STARS showcase their handmade wares at their latest pop-up market.
DOORS OF OPPORTUNITY Cindy’s Cottage moves closer to becoming a reality.
GI S aShoutout!
CELEBRATE SOMEONE WHO SHINES BRIGHT!
Honor your favorite STAR with a special tribute in the January 2027 issue of SA Life Magazine
Whether you're celebrating a milestone, recognizing an accomplishment, sharing words of encouragement, or simply letting someone know how proud you are, a STAR Shoutout is a meaningful way to show your support.
Celebrate Recognize Inspire.
Your personalized message can include a favorite photo and heartfelt note, creating a keepsake your STAR and their loved ones will treasure for years to come.
SHOUTOUT SIZES AVAILABLE
Quarter Page – Perfect for a short message and photo
Half Page – More room to share your story and celebrate your STAR
Full Page – Make a bold statement with multiple photos and a personalized tribute
Whether they're starting a new job, reaching a personal goal, celebrating a birthday, or simply making the world a brighter place, every STAR deserves to be recognized.
SPACE IS LIMITED!
Reserve your STAR Shoutout by November 1 , and help us fill the pages of our January 2027 issue with stories of achievement, joy, and possibility
Contact SA Life Academy at 210-824-8064 for information on pricing and Shoutout submission
FROM OUR DIRECTORS
Dear SA Life Academy Family and Friends,
As SA Life Academy celebrates its 9th birthday on July 17, we are filled with gratitude for the growth, friendships, and opportunities that continue to shape our community.
This issue offers a snapshot of the many ways our STARS are learning, leading, and connecting throughout San Antonio. Through community outings, volunteer service, vocational experiences, and skill-building activities, students are strengthening communication, confidence, independence, and workplace-readiness skills in meaningful, real-world settings.
We are especially proud of our SALA Ambassadors, who prepare and independently present SA Life Academy’s mission and initiatives to businesses and community organizations. Their leadership and public speaking reflect the abilities and potential we see in our STARS every day.
You will also find updates on Cindy’s Cottage, a special STAR Spotlight, upcoming events, and our fall gala. Each of these stories represents another way SA Life Academy is building opportunities for students to grow, contribute, and be recognized as valued members of the community.
Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and belief in our mission. Your partnership makes this work possible and helps our STARS continue to shine.
With Grateful Hearts,
Samantha Kidwell & Ellen Shoemaker Co-Executive Directors
OUR 2026 OFF BROADWAY GALA WILL MAKE A SPLASH
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 7th, 2026! SALA is thrilled to invite you to “be a part of our world” at our annual Off-Broadway Gala at the Witte Mays Family Center and Zachry Gardens.
GETTING DRESSED FOR SUCCESS
SA Life Academy proudly celebrated its second year partnering with Dress for Success San Antonio to host a meaningful Career Development Workshop for our STARS.
The market was sold out and featured a variety of student-made and studentsupported items, including homemade baked goods, dog treats, earrings, and more.
Cindy’s Cottage is taking shape! Exciting progress continues on Cindy’s Cottage, SA Life Academy’s planned vocational storefront designed to provide meaningful, handson employment training for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
The SALA Ambassador Program gives students the opportunity to represent SA Life Academy in the community while building confidence, professionalism, and public speaking skills.
The 2026 Off Broadway Gala Committee kicked off planning with a splash!
SA Life Academy is thrilled to invite you to dive into an unforgettable evening at our annual OffBroadway Gala, "Under the Sea," at the Witte Mays Family Center and Zachry Gardens.
HONORING: DEBBI CHESNEY CO-CHAIRS: ALLISON FINLEY
SARAH BOYNTON GIBBONS
NICOLE BOYNTON
Set beneath a sea of shimmering lights and oceaninspired elegance, this enchanting celebration begins promptly at 6 p.m. and benefits more than 160 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guests will enjoy signature cocktails, a seated dinner, a brief program, and an exciting live auction led by auctioneer Rick Shaw.
This year, we are honored to celebrate Debbi Chesney, whose boundless compassion and unwavering commitment to our mission have created waves of opportunity for the students and families we serve.
Just as the ocean is filled with endless wonder waiting to be discovered, every individual at SA Life Academy has unique talents, dreams, and potential ready to shine. Your support helps us expand our year-round programming, create new opportunities for meaningful employment and independent living, and welcome more students from our waitlist into a community where they can flourish.
Join us as we celebrate a night of hope, possibility, and the belief that when a community comes together, we can help every student find where they truly belong. 2 0 2 6 O F F - B R O A D W A Y G A L A
We invite you to be a part of our world! For sponsorship information or to secure your table, contact Finance Director Kristen Collier at kristen@salifeacademy.org or 512.705.1080.
SALA STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Meet Bianca Garcia!
Her smile lights up every space she enters, and her warm, generous spirit makes everyone around her feel welcome and supported.
Bianca joined the SA Life Academy family in August 2024, and it didn't take long for her to make her mark. At just 25 years old, she has already earned a very special nickname around here: "The Boss!" And she's earned every bit of it! Bianca has a gift for seeing what needs to be done and jumping in before she's even asked. Whether it's helping out in the kitchen, keeping things clean and organized, or stepping in to support a classmate or teacher, Bianca leads with her heart every single time and follows with action.
One of the most beautiful things about Bianca is the way she shows up for the people around her. Every single day, she makes a point to greet each student as they walk through the door and checks in with everyone throughout the day. She has a special way of making sure no one ever feels left out, and that kind of intentional kindness is truly something special. Her good manners, sweet spirit, and genuine care for others make her an absolute joy to be around. She is without a doubt one of the best role models in our STARS community.
WHETHER IT'S HELPING OUT IN THE KITCHEN, KEEPING THINGS CLEAN AND ORGANIZED, OR STEPPING IN TO SUPPORT A CLASSMATE OR TEACHER, BIANCA LEADS WITH HER HEART EVERY SINGLE TIME AND FOLLOWS WITH ACTION.
Bianca is also a shining participant in SALA's Career Development Program, where she helps with pop-up markets, volunteers in the community, and is getting hands-on training with our coffee truck. She is building real skills and a bright future, one cup of coffee and one kind act at a time. And if that wasn't enough, Bianca also took center stage representing SA Life Academy at the Texas Red Wolves Fashion Runway Show, showing the world just how much our STARS shine beyond the walls of SALA!
When she's not busy being amazing at SALA, Bianca loves belting out her favorite Taylor Swift songs at karaoke and going on walks with her dad.
Bianca, we are so grateful you are part of our SALA family. Keep shining! The world needs more people just like you!
SUCCESS SUCCESS
Power Dressing
SA Life Academy proudly celebrated its second year partnering with Dress for Success San Antonio to host a meaningful Career Development Workshop for our STARS. This special opportunity allowed students to continue building confidence, strengthening vocational skills, and preparing for greater independence in the workplace and beyond.
The workshop was set up like a professional training class, with students seated at tables facing the instructor and presentation screen. STARS arrived dressed professionally for the event, with gentlemen wearing dress slacks, button-down shirts, and dress shoes, and ladies wearing blouses, slacks, or dresses. Dressing professionally helped students feel confident, prepared, and ready to engage in a workplace-style learning environment.
Throughout SALA’s Career Development Program, led by career development teacher Donna Galvan, STARS have spent the year practicing important job-readiness skills, including hygiene, grooming, communication, advocacy, job searching, resume writing, interviewing, and workplace expectations. Because of this preparation, students were able to participate confidently in the workshop and answer questions about workplace success.
During the most recent session, Jeanne Miller, a dedicated volunteer Job Coach with Dress for Success San Antonio, led an inspiring workshop filled with practical strategies for professional growth. With more than 15 years of experience in career development, Jeanne helps individuals prepare for the workforce through resume assistance, mock interviews, and job search guidance. Her encouragement and expertise helped our STARS learn how to turn challenges into opportunities while continuing to build self-confidence, communication skills, and professional independence.
The workshop highlighted several important areas of growth, including enhancing workplace communication and teamwork, discovering career interests and personal strengths, and building the confidence needed to succeed in professional settings. At the conclusion of the workshop, students received a Certificate of Completion recognizing their hard work, dedication, and progress. They left feeling proud of their accomplishments and more confident about their future employment opportunities.
SALA is grateful for Dress for Success San Antonio, Jeanne Miller, Donna Galvan, and all who continue to invest in our students through meaningful career development opportunities. We are so proud of all the STARS who participated. Their dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm are truly inspiring, and we cannot wait to see how they continue to shine as they build skills for the future.
NO RAIN ON OUR PARADE! NO RAIN ON OUR PARADE! NO RAIN ON OUR PARADE!
A RAINY FIESTA SEASON DIDN’T KEEP OUR STARS FROM CELEBRATING!
They say Fiesta happens rain or shine, and this year, we certainly got a little of both! While the rainy weather may have changed a few plans throughout the season, it never dampened the excitement, energy, or Fiesta spirit of our incredible SALA STARS With bright smiles, festive outfits, and hearts ready to celebrate, our students embraced every opportunity to enjoy one of San Antonio's most cherished traditions.
From festive activities to unforgettable moments together, our STARS reminded us that the best part of Fiesta isn't the weather - it's the joy, friendship, and community we share Rain or shine, they brought the party wherever they went, making this Fiesta season one to remember.
A very special thank you to the Texas Cavaliers for taking the time to visit our campus and spend part of your Fiesta season with our students. Your generosity, kindness, and commitment to our community created memories our STARS will treasure for years to come. We are grateful for your friendship and for helping make this Fiesta season so meaningful.
STUDENT-LED POP-UP MARKET BRINGS SKILLS, SERVICE, AND COMMUNITY TOGETHER
SA Life Academy’s Career Development Program students recently hosted a successful Pop-Up Market on Thursday, May 14, at the SA Life Academy campus The event was a wonderful opportunity for our STARS to showcase their creativity, practice vocational skills, and engage with the community in a meaningful way
THE EVENTWASAWONDERFULOPPORTUNITYFOR OUR STARSTO SHOWCASETHEIR CREATIVITY, PRACTICEVOCATIONALSKILLS,AND ENGAGEWITH THE COMMUNITYINAMEANINGFULWAY.
The market was sold out and featured a variety of studentmade and student-supported items, including homemade baked goods, dog treats, earrings, and more Rising STARS Coffee was also on-site, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy coffee while supporting the hard work and growth of our students
More than a shopping event, the Pop-Up Market served as a hands-on learning experience Students practiced important job-readiness and customer service skills, including greeting guests, communicating with customers, handling products, working as a team, and taking pride in their contributions These real-world experiences help students build confidence, independence, and professionalism in a supportive community environment
Pop-Up Markets are held every other month on the SA Life Academy campus, located at 308 Mount Calvary Drive, and are run by students in SALA’s Career Development Program. Each market gives our STARS the chance to apply what they are learning in the classroom while sharing their talents and hard work with families, friends, and community supporters.
SALA is incredibly proud of our Career Development Program students for their dedication, enthusiasm, and professionalism. Their success at the Pop-Up Market is a beautiful example of how vocational learning, community engagement, and student confidence come together at SA Life Academy.
JOIN USATOUR NEXTPOP-UP!
THURSDAY,AUGUST20TH: 9AM - SOLD OUT
308 MOUNTCALVARYDRIVE
SALA STARS GET THEIR ZUMBA ON, AT A COSMIC-THEMED ZUMBATHON!
SALA students recently enjoyed an energetic and joy-filled Out-of-This-World Zumbathon, bringing together movement, music, friendship, and fun in a way that perfectly aligned with SALA’s commitment to health and wellness.
Students came ready to move, dance, and celebrate as they participated in fun Zumba routines with a cosmic twist From upbeat music to themed decorations and plenty of smiles, the event encouraged SALA STARS to stay active while building confidence, coordination, and community.
The Zumbathon was more than just a dance party. It was an opportunity for students to focus on physical wellness, express themselves through movement, and experience the joy of exercising together. Events like this help reinforce the importance of caring for our bodies, staying active, and finding fun ways to support overall well-being.
A special thank you to everyone who helped make this event such a success, including our SALA staff, volunteers, families, and everyone who encouraged our students along the way. Most of all, thank you to our amazing SALA STARS for showing up, dancing big, and making the day truly out of this world!
OPENING DOORS OPENING DOORS TO
OPPORTUNITY TO OPPORTUNITY
Cindy’sCottageMovesClosertoBecomingaReality
Exciting progress continues on Academy’s planned vocational provide meaningful, hands-on adults with intellectual and devel
The cottage will be located on p Academy’s main campus at Moun the next step in the growth of ou Building on the success of Rising STARS Coffee, pop-up markets, and other student-led enterprises, Cindy’s Cottage will give STARS the opportunity to create, display, market, and sell handmade products in a welcoming retail environment.
More than a storefront, Cindy’s Cottage will be a place where STARS can strengthen practical workplace skills such as customer service, communication, teamwork, inventory management, merchandising, money handling, and responsibility. The long-term vision also includes creating opportunities for STARS to become paid employees, helping them build greater confidence, independence, and a sense of purpose.
The project is named in memory of SA Life Academy cofounder Cindy Boynton, whose belief in the potential of every student continues to guide the Academy’s mission. Cindy often encouraged others to recognize the unique gifts within each individual, and the cottage will carry that legacy forward by creating a space where STARS can share their talents with the broader community.
SA Life Academy has already taken several important steps toward bringing the project to life, including completing initial plans and renderings, developing the program concept, and beginning preparations for a capital campaign. The project also received an extraordinary early boost through a generous $200,000 lead gift, providing strong momentum as fundraising efforts continue.
“My dream is for my child to live a life up to their potential, in a community that understands and supports their needs and values their strengths and contributions to the community.”
As planning moves forward, SA Life Academy is working closely with its board, supporters, and community partners to ensure that Cindy’s Cottage is both financially sustainable and thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of the STARS who will learn and work there.
Cindy’s Cottage represents more than a new building. It represents opportunity, growth, dignity, and the belief that every person deserves a place where their abilities are recognized and their contributions are valued.
To learn more about Cindy’s Cottage, view project renderings, and follow the progress of this exciting initiative, visit www.salifeacademy.org/cindys-cottage. Be on the lookout for a special mailer coming soon with additional information and sponsorship opportunities.
JOIN US IN BUILDING CINDY’S VISION
Construction is anticipated to begin in 2027, and SA Life Academy is currently seeking founding donors and funding partners to help bring Cindy’s Cottage to life With your support,wecanensureCindy’svisioncontinuestoopendoorsforgenerationstocome.
Tolearnmoreordiscusscampaignopportunities,pleasecontact: EllenShoemaker
Co-ExecutiveDirector ellen@salifeacedemyorg
Scanheretolearnmore aboutCindy’sCottage.
SALA AMBASSADORS
The SALA Ambassador Program gives students the opportunity to represent SA Life Academy in the community while building confidence, professionalism, and public speaking skills
Before each presentation, Ambassadors prepare together, review key information about SA Life Academy, and practice how they will communicate the organization’s mission, programs, and current initiatives. When it is time to present, the students take the lead. They introduce SA Life Academy, explain the work taking place on campus and in the community, and represent the organization proudly and independently.
SO FAR, SALA AMBASSADORS HAVE PRESENTED AT HEADWALL INVESTMENTS, H-E-B, AND LAS AGUILAS. EACH OPPORTUNITY GIVES STUDENTS MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCE SPEAKING IN FRONT OF AN AUDIENCE, WORKING AS A TEAM, ANSWERING QUESTIONS, AND COMMUNICATING WITH CONFIDENCE.
So far, SALA Ambassadors have presented at Headwall Investments, H-E-B, and Las Aguilas. Each opportunity gives students meaningful experience speaking in front of an audience, working as a team, answering questions, and communicating with confidence.
The program is more than a public speaking exercise. It allows students to strengthen leadership, self-advocacy, communication, and workplace-readiness skills while showing the community what they are capable of accomplishing.
Interested in inviting the SALA Ambassadors to speak at your business, organization, school, or community group? Scan the QR code to schedule a presentation.
SCAN HERE TO SCHEDULE A PRESENTATION!
INOUR COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE SA LIFE ACADEMY EXPERIENCE THROUGH VOLUNTEER SERVICE, EDUCATIONAL OUTINGS, RECREATION, AND LIFESKILLS ACTIVITIES, STARS HAVE OPPORTUNITIES TO BUILD CONFIDENCE, STRENGTHEN COMMUNICATION SKILLS, PRACTICE TEAMWORK, AND BECOME MORE INDEPENDENT IN REAL-WORLD SETTINGS.
So far in 2026, STARS have connected with 20 community partners through volunteer service and outreach. These partnerships have included organizations such as;
Eagles Flight
St. Francis Church
Catholic Charities
San Antonio Food Bank & Diaper Bank
Salvation Army
Corazon Ministries
House of Neighborly Service
Dress for Success Frost Bank
During the first half of 2026, STARS contributed an estimated 3,924 combined student volunteer hours, representing approximately $28,449 in service to the community.
More importantly, each service opportunity helps students strengthen communication, teamwork, responsibility, workplace readiness, and independence while making meaningful contributions to organizations throughout San Antonio Students practice following directions, completing tasks, working alongside others, interacting with community members, and taking pride in helping meet a real need.
Beyond volunteering, STARS have also remained active throughout the community through educational, cultural, recreational, wellness, and life-skills outings. Students have visited museums, libraries, parks, gardens, fitness facilities, local businesses, and community attractions. These experiences support practical skills such as making choices, managing money, navigating public spaces, practicing appropriate social behavior, staying active, and trying new things.
Whether they are volunteering, visiting a museum, participating in a fitness activity, or practicing life skills in the community, STARS are learning how to engage with the world around them with greater confidence and independence. Just as importantly, these experiences give the broader community the opportunity to see the abilities, talents, and contributions of SA Life Academy students.
SA Life Academy is thrilled to welcome two incredible women to our team who bring passion, experience, and heart to everything they do!
ANNETTE ARCHULETA
Antoinette Archuleta joins us as a Lead Teacher, and she is already making such an impact! Antoinette holds a Bachelor of Science in Nonprofit Management from Colorado Christian University and is currently pursuing her certification as a Job Skills Trainer through the University of North Texas. With more than 25 years of experience in education spanning public school districts across the United States, Department of Defense schools overseas, and private educational settings, she brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and expertise to our STARS. Throughout her career in special education, she has developed a deep passion for improving quality of life, work readiness, and functional life skills for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. That passion, combined with her extensive experience, is exactly what brought her to SA Life Academy.
ANGEL VERA
Angel Vera comes to us as an Associate Teacher and honestly, she already feels like family! With over 15 years in the nonprofit sector and two years as a substitute with SALA, joining the team full-time was a natural next step. Her dedication to our STARS and her genuine heart for people shine through in everything she does. Outside of SALA, Angel and her husband are co-owners of a gym they have built together, and she loves dancing, hunting, working out, and spending time with her family. She is a proud mother of one and grandmother to four
Welcome to the SALA family, Antoinette and Angel! We are beyond blessed to have you!
SALANEW TEAMMEMBERS
“PERK UP”YOUR NEXT EVENT “PERK UP” YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH RISING STARS! WITH RISING STARS!
Reach out to Samantha Kidwell for more information! (210)380-3835
samantha@salifeacademy org
SALIFEACADEMY’S9THBIRTHDAY FRIDAY,JULY17TH
Celebratingnineyearsoflearning,growth,friendship,and community.
POP-UPMARKET
THURSDAY,AUGUST20TH:9AM-SOLDOUT 308MOUNTCALVARYDRIVE
Shop student-made goods, treats, Rising STARS Coffee, and more.
SUNSETRIDGEFARMERSMARKET
SATURDAY,AUGUST1ST:9AM-12PM
CHARISPARK,95BREESBLVD,SANANTONIO,TX78209
Visit SA Life Academy students at the Sunset Ridge Farmers Market and support student-led vocational experiences in the community
OFFBROADWAYGALA
OCTOBER7TH:6:00PM–9:30PM WITTEMAYSCENTER&ZACHRYGARDENS
