Partnerships

Webster’s describes a partnership as “a relationship between individuals or groups that is characterized by mutual cooperation and responsibility, as for the achievement of a specified goal.” Heartspring describes our partnership with Sigma Alpha as “a partnership so vital to our existence that without it Heartspring would not, could not be the organization it is today.” Heartspring was lovingly adopted by Sigma Alpha Sorority as its “golden charity” in 1945 during their convention in St. Louis, Missouri. Things have changed tremendously since that time but one thing continues to remain the same and stands strong—Sigma Alpha lives to give their all to Heartspring students and families.

Their purposeful giving was best demonstrated in one of their first and dearest major fundraising projects; building the Inter-Faith Chapter on the Institute of Logopedics campus in 1962. Dr. Palmer reportedly told them that “through your monetary support the dream of a beautiful sanctuary, where children and adults may receive spiritual nourishment will be realized.” Upon dedication of the chapel, Sigma Alpha presented Dr. Palmer with a debt free deed signifying their achievement of their goal as successful fundraisers and they haven’t looked back since. Supplying the need financially with unmatched passion and commitment, each project they undertake receives their total support and goes beyond just purchasing equipment or brick and mortar—chapters across the United States volunteer countless hours of their time and raise funds all year long to help support programs and fill the needs of Heartspring students. Sigma Alpha Sorority’s support extends from the capital campaign to build the new campus and residential homes to scholarships for Heartspring employees seeking to further their education and skills; they have poured love and money into the current and future success of Heartspring. They lavish students with gifts each chapter carefully selects and personally shops for—donating them to the student through the Adopt-a-Child program. Sigma Alpha makes sure each student that is eligible is adopted, ensuring no child goes without.

In June, Heartspring was very pleased to welcome over 125 members of Sigma Alpha to campus, as the sorority gathered in Wichita for their 2007 National Convention. Members toured the Heartspring campus and had the opportunity to ask questions and meet a few of the children they have supported through the Adopt-a-Child program. For many, it was a chance to strengthen and renew their commitment to the organization that they support through their fundraising activities throughout the year. Each year the Vice President of Sigma Alpha visits the campus. In 2005, then Vice President, now President Rosemary Norling, had the chance to work at Heartspring’s day camp and meet teachers visiting from China. Rosemary says that her visit “deepened her respect for the work Heartspring does every day.” She said that, “it was touching to see the amazing progress students make from when they arrive at Heartspring to when they graduate and leave. It is absolutely amazing. The experience enriched my life and made me much more aware of the capabilities of students with special needs when they’re given the chance.”

Over the course of our 62-year relationship, Heartspring has received more than $3 million donated dollars from Sigma Alpha Sorority. The value of their love for our students, interaction with our programs and services and commitment to making sure Heartspring remains a loving environment for children to learn and grow is immeasurable.