Maureen “Reenie” Stanko created the So Much To Give program under Pillars of Light and Love to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities and strengthen inclusion in the community. In July 2023, the program established the So Much To Give Inspiration Studio across from the So Much To Give Inclusive Café.
The Café and Studio further this mission in different ways. The Café provides inclusive employment and dining opportunities. The Studio offers public creative, recreational, social and community activities where people of all abilities are welcome to participate together.
If you would like to learn more about the cause, check out the following news clips!
PHL Channel 17 News February 2023
6 ABC Action News October 2023
For any questions, please email Maureen at SoMuchtoGivePA@gmail.com.
YOUR SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED MORE THAN WORDS CAN SAY!
HOW THE "SO MUCH TO GIVE" PROGRAM BEGAN
SO MUCH TO GIVE is a program launched in late 2021 within Pillars of Light and Love at the Empowering U Center. It was the initiative of Maureen Stanko, a 25+ year Methacton School District teacher and mother of Nicholas, a young adult who struggles with autism and intellectual challenges. The impetus for the creation of SO MUCH TO GIVE was the tremendous need for older teens and young adults, like Nick, to spend time with peers, engage in meaningful activities, and continue on a path of lifelong learning beyond high school. Maureen is now the Director of the new So Much to Give Inspiration Studio located in a beautiful building right near the So Much to Give Inclusive Cafe. Volunteers at the studio include experienced instructors in art, music, vocational skills and much more!
Volunteers are always needed, please contact Maureen at somuchtogivepa@gmail.com
If you would like to attend sessions at the SO MUCH TO GIVE INSPIRATION STUDIO, please email InspirationStudioSMTG@gmail.com
If you are able to make a monetary donation to help us facilitate our So Much to Give program, please see link below
