Page 4 - 2022-2023 Annual Report

2
Annual Report 22 - 23 | info@mygiantsteps.org | www.mygiantsteps.org

A Letter From Giant Steps

Executive

Director

Dear Friends and Supporters, Beyond fundraising, our students experienced
As we reflect on the past year at Giant Steps, we are moments of joy and growth through special events such
filled with gratitude for the unwavering support of our as Homecoming, Prom, our Elementary, Tri-City Charger
community. Your generosity has propelled us forward, summer celebration, and Musical. These experiences are
allowing us to achieve remarkable milestones and create essential in fostering confidence, creativity, and a sense
new opportunities for the students and adults we serve. of belonging for those we serve.
Every success we celebrate is a testament to your Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment
commitment and belief in our mission. to expanding opportunities and enhancing programs
The 2022 – 2023 school year was a year of progress that empower individuals with autism. The vision for the
and perseverance. We hosted our first-ever Gator Canopy Activity Center continues to take shape, promising
Crawl, a school-wide walk for students, bringing families a future filled with greater support, engagement, and
together in a powerful show of unity to raise over $12,000. enrichment.
In 2023, our Annual 5K Walk for Autism for the entire None of this would be possible without you—our dedicated
community returned in person, drawing approximately donors, families, volunteers, and staff. Together, we
400 participants to Rich Harvest Farms and rallying continue to prove that when we unite around a shared
over 650 individuals who helped us raise an incredible purpose, we can accomplish extraordinary things.
$175,038. Together, the Gator Crawl and the Annual 5K Thank you for being part of our journey. With your
Walk raised $187,038, directly supporting our students continued support, we are excited to embrace the future
and adults. and all its possibilities.

The spirit of celebration continued at our annual With gratitude and optimism,
Silver Jubilee Gala, which raised an astounding $289,885,
including $86,955 dedicated to vital projects such as our
library, a new van for Canopy, and sound improvements.
Our Canopy Golf Outings at Rich Harvest Farms and Cress Dr. Sylvia Smith
Creek raised $235,000, with $40,000 earmarked for the Executive Director
future Canopy Activity Center’s Health Office.
Giant Steps Illinois, Inc.