Message from the Director

The past few months have certainly passed quickly, marked by the holiday season and various festivities. Individuals had the opportunity to celebrate with family, friends, staff, and one another. 

On December 17th, we hosted our annual Holiday Party at Park Forest Baptist Church. As in previous years, our wonderful volunteers, Linda and Dale Walker, prepared the turkeys, while the homes contributed a variety of delicious side dishes—coming together to create a truly festive holiday meal. Residents and staff gathered to celebrate, share laughter, and enjoy one another’s company. We were also thrilled to welcome Santa, who surprised each individual with a special gift.  

With the start of the new Penn State semester, many of our favorite activities are in full swing once again, including Art Class, Best Buddies, and Harmony. Special Olympics bowling and track and field have also resumed, bringing a renewed sense of energy and excitement to the season. We are especially proud to share that two of our residents have qualified for the State Bowling Tournament for our region, a wonderful accomplishment and an exciting chance for them to showcase their skills against other bowlers in the state. 

These programs offer meaningful ways for everyone to stay active, engaged, and connected throughout the colder months as we look forward to warmer days ahead. 

On February 13th, many of our individuals attended the 2026 Night to Shine event at Calvary Harvest Fields in Boalsburg. This unforgettable prom night style celebration featured music, dancing, and joyous moments shared with friends and volunteers. 

One of the highlights of the evening was the crowning of royalty. Every guest was honored as King or Queen of the night, making each person feel truly celebrated and special. 

In agency news, our Chief Executive Officer, Cindy Pasquinelli, has announced her retirement effective July 31, 2026, after 41 years of exceptional leadership and dedicated service to our organization. 

We are profoundly grateful to Cindy for her unwavering commitment to our mission and for the remarkable impact she has made on Strawberry Fields. Her vision, compassion, and steady leadership have shaped the organization we are today and have positively influenced countless individuals and families we serve. 

Cindy leaves behind a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire us for years to come. Lastly, we will continue our Family Forum meetings, with a date to be announced in March 2026. More information to follow. 

We appreciate your continued engagement and support. It is through the dedication of our staff, families, and community partners that we can continue to make a meaningful difference. We look forward to sharing more stories and successes with you in the months to come.