Mountain Shadows Support Group named
Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) Grantee |
MSSG is awarded a $10,000 grant for its Together We Thrive Community Celebration Series of Events.
Pictured, left to right, at the check presentation, Trisha Brodd, Residential Services Director/MSCH-San Deigo, Arlene Galvan, Director of Operations/MSSG, Brittin Parker, Sr. QIDP/A, MSCH-San Diego, Jill Weber, Director of Advancement/FDD, and Mandelyn Huiras, Director of Development/MSF. |
by Sheryl Wilde MSSG Awarded $10,000 Grant by The Foundation of Developmental Disabilities MSSG was recently awarded a $10,000 grant for its Together We Thrive: Community Celebration Series of Events, Fostering Connection, Inclusion and Joy. The series of events will provide social, cultural, and recreational opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, promoting joy, health and community connection through music, dance, and seasonal festivities. Says Sitara Sethi, Chief Executive Officer, FDD, “We are inspired by the MSSG vision of creating inclusive community events that bring together individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, caregivers, community partners, and supporters. “Through opportunities for social connection, recreation, and community engagement, this program will help reduce isolation, foster belonging, and celebrate the contributions of individuals with I/DD throughout North County San Diego.” |
The FDD Team, left to right, Sitara, Jill and Ashley Champa, Operations Manager/FDD at Christmas in July event, 2026. |
The Together We Thrive Community Series is part of MSSG’s overriding vision to strengthen Mountain Shadows’ leadership role in establishing and advancing an inclusive, accessible, supportive community where all I/DD individuals can thrive and live to their highest potential.
Through empowering, community-based collaboration and partnerships with organizations like The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities, MSSG is strengthening its role as an innovative leader in North County San Deigo’s I/DD field. |
Photo, from left to right, Jill and Sitara, FDD. |
The FDD’s mission is to generate and distribute funds to innovative programs that enhance the quality of life for I/DD individuals in San Diego and Imperial Counties. “We are celebrating our 40th year this year!” says Jill. “That’s really exciting. One of the Foundation’s primary focuses is program grants, which is how we are able to partner with Mountain Shadows. Mountain Shadows is doing amazing work!
“Over the past six years, FDD has provided over $2.3 million in grants to support 138 nonprofit organizations.
“The Foundation also distributed more than $300,000 through its Emergency Help Fund in 2025-2026. The Help Fund is a great program, probably our most impactful program. If San Diego Regional Center clients are unable to pay their rent, water bill, or electricity bill, our Help Fund can assist them.
“We also provide funding through the Dr. Raymond M. Peterson Scholarship program and have supported more than $1.5 million in affordable housing initiatives for I/DD individuals.
“We also have a program called Season of Sharing where we raise money to give Regional Center clients gift cards for the holidays. I delivered a couple of the gift cards and asked a young girl what she was going to do with the gift. I was blown away by her empathy. She was going to buy her brother a toothbrush and toothpaste. Her father and grandfather both needed hair combs. Her mom needed hairspray and shampoo. So that is what she was buying.
“All of the clients were buying necessities. It tugs at your heartstrings.” |
Jan Adams, FDD Board Chair and Sitara. |
Adds Jill, “Through our partnership, our hope is to share with others the great work Mountain Shadows is doing, and to build upon it.
“The Together We Thrive initiative is amazing,” adds Jill. “My son has autism and ADHD. One of the biggest things he struggles with is socializing and developing friendships. When I saw the Mountain Shadows grant proposal, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh! They are promoting friendship, and social activities! I think that is really amazing. And I’m really excited to see how our partnership develops, and how we can support you going forward.”
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Ashley, Sitara and Jill, FDD Christmas team photo. |
“Our achievements at FDD are far more than statistics,” says Sitara. “They reflect transformed lives, expanded opportunities, and stronger communities. Every milestone is a testament to our collective commitment to equity, inclusion, and lasting impact.”
“Through this generous grant, The Foundation of Developmental Disabilities is advancing our shared mission of fostering connection, awareness, and accessibility for all I/DD individuals,” says Stacy Sullivan, Executive Director, Mountain Shadows Support Group/Mountain Shadows Ancillary Services.
“Strengthening partnerships with organizations like the FDD, strengthens all of us. “Together We Thrive!” |
Please Join Us at Our First
Together We Thrive Community Event!
We are excited to invite you to participate in an unforgettable evening of Halloween fun and community connection at our upcoming Trunk or Treat. It’s FREE and it will be a GHOSTLY GOOD TIME! You can sign-up at: Mtnshadows.org/2026TOTVolunteer. |
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The Mountain Shadows Foundation – Because We CARE |
Thanks to YOUR SUPPORT, the Mountain Shadows CARE program provides recreational and social experiences to residents and participants adding meaning and richness to their lives.
It’s easy for you to help us continue to provide activities like this – activities that improve the quality of our residents’ lives in fulfillment of their dreams. Here are some ways you can help ensure these crucial activities can continue for years to come: -
Make a one-time donation today by clicking on the donate button below.
- Make a monthly or annual contribution.
- Leave a Legacy Gift.
To learn more about the Mountain Shadows Foundation Legacy Society, to include us in your estate plan, or to let us know if you have already designated Mountain Shadows to receive a legacy gift, please contact Mandy Huiras, Director of Development at: mhuiras@mtnshadows.org, or visit our website by clicking here:
Learn More About the Mountain Shadows Foundation Legacy Society Please share this story with your family, friends and co-workers to help grow our Mountain Shadows Family!
To learn more about Mountain Shadows volunteer opportunities, please click below:
Learn about Mountain Shadows Volunteer Opportunities Here |
Mandy Huiras
Mountain Shadows Foundation Director of Development
Contact Mandy today to learn more about the Mountain Shadows Foundation and how you can continue to make a difference in the lives of our residents:
mhuiras@mtnshadows.org |
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