A Letter From The Executive Director
A Mosaic of Hope in Uncertain Times
When the Path Is Steep, We Need Friends Like You
Artist-Client, Jenny R., Art Instructor, Jay Engelman and Beauty from Shards
As fireworks lit up the sky this past Fourth of July, many of us paused to reflect on the freedoms we cherish and the communities that make them meaningful. Here at We Care Arts, we were reminded once again that even in uncertain times, beauty and hope can emerge—sometimes quite literally—from broken pieces.
Just last week, we welcomed Beauty From Shards to help create a glass mosaic for the new Dayton Children’s Mathile Center for Mental Health and Wellness building. Jenny and her classmates from Jay’s and Lacey’s classes had a wonderful time contributing to this vibrant piece of art. Their joy and creativity were contagious, and the mosaic they helped build will serve as a lasting symbol of healing and resilience for children and families on their behavioral health journeys.
But while we celebrate these bright moments, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead.
Governor DeWine’s recently signed FY 2026–2027 state budget includes historic investments in developmental disabilities services—an encouraging step forward. However, here in Montgomery County, the picture is more complex. Despite the state-level increases, our local Board of Developmental Disabilities Services is facing budget shortfalls in 2025. With levy funding still tied to 1977 property values and the expiration of one-time federal relief funds, the strain is growing.
This has already led to painful service reductions, a hiring freeze, and the closure of critical programs like Mental Health Services and Recreation. Families are feeling the impact—through longer wait times, reduced early intervention capacity, and fewer supports for respite care and special needs education. And this is before we even fully understand the impact of the federal budget signed last weekend, by our President.
And yet, we keep showing up.
We show up because of moments like Jenny’s—where joy and purpose shine through. We show up because our community needs us. And we show up because of friends like you. When the path is steep, it’s your support that helps us keep going. Whether through advocacy, donations, or simply sharing our story, you are a vital part of this mosaic of hope.
We need you now more than ever. Even when the path is steep, your friendship helps us lay each tile of hope—thank you for walking with us.
With deep thanks and steady steps,
Katie
Katie Neubert
Executive Director
Thank you for being a part of the transformative journey that is We Care Arts!
Your recurring and individual donations which are fueled by compassion and purpose, empowers us to create a world where art becomes a catalyst for change. Each brushstroke, every stitch, and every act of creation foster hope, healing, and empowerment.
With your generous support, we can continue to make a profound impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, addiction, and mental health through innovative art programs and inclusive community engagement. Your recurring and individual gifts, no matter the amount, are an enduring testament to your dedication, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to making a difference.
