“My sister is my rock.” -Addissa, Options Grant Recipient “HeartShare is opportunity.” -Shenika, Addissa’s sister and primary caretaker

Sixteen year old Addissa talks a mile aminute about school, politics and espe­cially her older sister, who raised her. “Shenika is my rock. She took care of me when I was a baby,” explained Addissa, who was only two when their mother passed away. The eldest of eight and 21 years old at the time, Shenika took on the responsibility of raising her siblings, including becoming an advocate for her baby sister. After she finished college, Shenika per­severed to earn her Master’s degree, ultimately becoming a parole officer due to her desire to help others. Throughout all this, Shenika learned more about her sister’s special needs and available resources with the help of people like Linda Rasport, Senior Coordinator of the Options Program. With her Options grant from HeartShare, Addissa attends camp where she enjoys swimming, bowling and track. “To me, HeartShare is opportunity. This is a camp that we ordinarily never would have been able to afford. It’s good for her health and she’s made lasting friends. I’m so grateful,” said Shenika.

Learn more about HeartShare and its Family of Services in our 2016 Annual Report.