“We are resilient, we are here, and I am so proud of us all” was the last line in my 2020 holiday blog. This phrase rings as true for me today as it did last year.

It’s been quite a year. So much continuing change, political, economic, environmental, social—but the OST field is doing an amazing job of adapting and weathering the storms that 2021 has thrown at us (remember February). This year has again pressure tested our system, but OST programs have not only bounced back, they have also bounced forward. Throughout Harris County, I hear about programs that are building attendance, strengthening relationships with community partners, and improving lives of the youth and families they serve. At CASE for Kids, we celebrated receiving Cycle 11, Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant which will provide free afterschool enrichment services for over 1,000 students. I am so proud to be a part of this community that is always striving to not only meet the needs of our students but challenge them to build a better world.

As you prepare to spend some special time with your friends and loved ones this holiday season, I hope your days are filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. Most of all, I hope you will find time to be kind to yourself. Reflect on all your wonderful accomplishments of 2021, give yourself time to savor those moments and let them inspire you in the coming year.

Cheers to a New Year!

Dr. Lisa Caruthers