Giving Tuesday Gifts Create Bright Spots for People

There is an old photo from Martin Luther Home, one of the two organizations that became Mosaic in 2003. It shows a young girl sitting outside with her face tilted up and her eyes closed. She has a contented look on her face, as if she’s just soaking in the sunshine. 

That’s how a bright spot in the day can make a person feel. It may be an unexpected surprise, good news, a quiet moment on a busy day, or just a moment to bask in the sunshine. 

We tend to cherish those bright spots in our lives. Sometimes, though, the brightest spot is the one you create for someone else. 

GivingTuesday is December 2. It falls on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. This year, Mosaic asks people to join us in creating bright spots for the people we support by making a gift.

A gift to Mosaic could help someone get a new winter coat, a needed pair of shoes, warm bedding, or countless other items that their limited funds make hard to purchase. Those things give people we support a bright spot, a reason to smile and feel good. 

There’s a myth that people with disabilities have all of their needs met by Medicaid and other government programs. But that’s not true.

Many of the people we support rely on Medicaid, and the only source of income comes from Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or perhaps employment. We know that the income people receive does not cover the expenses that they have, so donations often are used for essentials such as medications, copays, dental work, clothing, and hygiene items. This is one reason that Mosaic is a fundraising organization; we stand in the gap and support people to have the things they need in their lives. 

Each time we’re able to help a person with a need or desire they cannot manage on their own, it is a bright spot in their day. It provides relief, a smile, and a moment of joy in receiving. 

Helping create bright spots for others reminds us that there is joy in giving as well. When you create a bright spot for someone, the light reflects on you. It’s a win-win for you and the person who, because of your gift, will receive something they need.

To make a gift, donate here and brighten someone’s day today. 

I hope you have a blessed Thanksgiving and a bright GivingTuesday.

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Joanne Malise, MSW, LCSW has over thirty years of experience with the Rhode Island developmental disabilities systems. She leads a dynamic team of professionals committed to providing the guidance and support needed to help people to live safely in the community, and experience lives filled with friends, family, personal growth and opportunities. She is a strong advocate for personalized supports and community inclusion

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Andrew Taranko has been with Living Innovations since 2006. After graduating from Bentley College with a degree in Business Management, Andrew has spent the past 20 years working in Southern Maine in education, mental health, and developmental services. Andrew studied health policy and management as a graduate student in the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine.

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Michelle Donovan

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Kim Einloth joined Living Innovations in 2025. She’s a graduate of the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Psychology. Her 35-year career in human services in Rhode Island included work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as other vulnerable populations. She is certified as a Person-centered Thinking Facilitator and a Community Rehabilitation Educator.

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Keri Lopes began her career in the human service field in 2002, working with and advocating for children, adults and families experiencing behavioral and mental health challenges, as well as substance use disorders and homelessness. Keri joined Living Innovations in 2024 and holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and a master's degree in healthcare management. She is dedicated to ensuring that the organization’s mission to provide support to people with diverse needs to have a good life at home and in the community is lived through the work she does each day.

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Amanda Parker has worked for Living Innovations since 2008.  Amanda, who has a bachelor’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in human services, has experience working with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism, as well as issues related to homelessness, substance abuse, and children’s behavioral health. She is dedicated to ensuring people have opportunities and support to achieve their goals and dreams within the community.

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Momentum is now Living Innovations! We remain committed to providing support to people with diverse needs to have a good life at home and in the community. Contact us today if you have any questions about this transition.
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Shalyn joined the Momentum team in 2006 and served as Associate Director for 11 years, working alongside Director Dennis Strout to build upon programs and services that empower people to achieve their goals. Since Momentum joined Living Innovations, she has worked to uphold the common mission by assisting with the Momentum integration plan while ensuring those we support receive the highest quality, most personalized services possible.

As an Area Director, Shalyn will work with Maine State Director Andy Taranko, and Area Directors Keri Lopes and Amanda Parker, to oversee all programs and services throughout Living Innovations Maine.