We Invest in People – World Hope International

Jul 26, 2024 | #Cornerstone Community, We Invest In People

In a world filled with challenges, we firmly believe in the power of taking action and making a transformative difference. One guiding principle remains close to our hearts: “Invest in People.” This belief isn’t merely a sentiment but a driving force that inspires us to establish deep connections and foster a positive impact.

Our collaboration with World Hope and our involvement with the Enable the Children program in Sierra Leone stands as a testament to this belief. Investing in people, especially those in vulnerable situations, can genuinely change lives. World Hope’s mission to alleviate poverty, deliver healthcare, and empower communities aligns perfectly with our core values. It’s not just about financial aid but joining hands to help create a better tomorrow.

Discover how “Invest in People” and our collaboration with World Hope International transforms lives through physical and occupational therapy for children with disabilities in Sierra Leone. 

Sierra Leone grapples with enormous challenges, especially in providing healthcare and support for children with disabilities. Recognizing this, we chose to step in. We are privileged and honored to fund physical and occupational therapy services for these children. Such services not only amplify their physical well-being but also enhance their overall quality of life. With proper support, they can become active community members, gain independence, and chase their aspirations.

But the ripple effect of our collaboration goes further. When children with disabilities receive the tools and assistance they require, they defy odds and redefine potentials. They become beacons of hope, challenging preconceived notions, and demonstrating that abilities are not constrained by disabilities.

Our work with World Hope and Enable the Children underlines the profound belief that uplifting individuals, especially those in vulnerable situations, paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. By dedicating our resources and expertise to children with disabilities in Sierra Leone, we are sowing the seeds of enduring change.

In these challenging times, our alliance with World Hope, Enable the Children, and the wider community shines brightly, illustrating the remarkable outcomes achieved when like-minded entities unite with shared values. Our dedication to uplifting others goes beyond mere words; it’s a relentless pursuit to make the world better, one individual at a time.

As we progress in our mission to empower children with disabilities in Sierra Leone, we hope to motivate others to discover ways to uplift and inspire. Our work serves as a reminder of hope’s potency and the transformative power of collective action. We believe that by investing in people, we can shape a future filled with light, hope, and endless possibilities.

Raymond James is not affiliated with the above charitable organizations.

CSP #338792 exp 11.24.24

Diaper Drive Makes a Difference

Jul 22, 2024 | We Invest In People

The strength of the Cornerstone Community is defined by the impact we make and the connections we build. At the heart of everything is our team’s core value, Invest in People. It shapes our business practices, community engagements, and commitment to service, ensuring that we contribute meaningfully and effectively wherever possible.

Diapers – An Expensive Basic Need

This summer’s Diaper Drive was inspired by the joy of welcoming two babies into our Cornerstone work family in 2023—with another on the way in 2024. That got us thinking about how we could support new parents in the Sioux Falls and Huron communities.  Diapers are a necessity but can be a significant expense for many families. In 2023, 47% of American families struggled to afford diapers.1

Final Count

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our clients, we delivered over 1,000 diapers to PlusOne in Huron and over 5,500 diapers to The Teddy Bear Den in Sioux Falls. Reflecting on the drive, Michelle Stahl, Partner and COO at Cornerstone says, “We Invest in People drives us to do more than just give back. We are proud to make a real, tangible difference in the lives of families in our community.”  

Thank you for your participation and support. We are inspired to continue expanding our efforts to support and uplift our communities. Stay tuned for what’s coming next at Cornerstone!

Sources

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/parents-struggle-afford-basic-baby-needs-diaper-prices-rise

Diaper Drive

Jun 6, 2024 | We Invest In People

Diaper Drive

Kicks off at Client Appreciation Event through July 15!

At the heart of any successful organization is a fundamental belief in people. Providing great service—to our clients, each other, our communities, and the world at large—starts with strong relationships.

At Cornerstone, we’ve defined this as one of our five core values, and we call it Invest in People. Since opening more than thirty years ago, and as Cornerstone continues to grow and evolve, this core value guides our decisions, ensuring that we are always a force for good in the lives of the people we touch. It’s our commitment to creating a space where everyone can thrive, and our promise to make a meaningful impact.

For our team, We Invest in People includes ongoing professional and personal learning, continuous improvement, and a team culture where everyone feels valued and heard.

For the #CornerstoneCommunity, it means extending our service beyond business transactions to meaningful community engagement. Through initiatives like our diaper drive, we can make a significant difference in the lives of families in need. It’s a practical manifestation of We Invest In People and underscores our commitment to not just do well in business but also to do good in the world.

Why a Diaper Drive?

You probably know that we joyfully welcomed two babies into our work family in 2023, but you may not have heard that we’re eagerly anticipating another in 2024! We were inspired to not only celebrate with the parents but also to think about how we can support new parents in the Sioux Falls and Huron communities. By supporting the Teddy Bear Den and Plus One, we can make a profound impact on the most vulnerable among us.

As a valued member of the #CornerstoneCommunity, you’re invited to join us if you’re moved to do so. Bring diaper donations to our client appreciation event or to our office by July 15.

Please note: The Teddy Bear Den in Sioux Falls is in particular need of diapers in sizes 4, 5, and 6.

Raymond James is not affiliated and does not endorse Plus One or The Teddy Bear Den.

 

CSP #511174 Exp 2025.06.05

Mammograms a Crucial Part of Self-Care

Oct 31, 2023 | We Invest In People

Cornerstone Client Relationship Manager, Stephanie Gerrits, FPQP®, recently talked to staff at Huron Regional Medical Center (HRMC) about their campaign to promote the importance of mammograms to women. A wife and proud mom to three amazing boys, she had her first mammogram at age 40 – a recommendation that all women don’t follow. She believes early detection through regular mammograms is a crucial part of self-care, saying, “I want to be in charge of my health so I can live my life to the fullest and be with my family.”

Her willingness to share her experience to benefit this crucial health advocacy campaign is a testament to Stephanie’s belief in the potentially life-saving health screening and her commitment to the community. And it brilliantly reflects Cornerstone’s core value, Invest In People, which drives us to build genuine connections and make a positive impact.

Here’s Stephanie’s Mammogram Story:

Q: Do you have any friends or family that have been affected by breast cancer?
Stephanie: Yes, including a few who have lost their battle. They have all been diagnosed at different stages of life – 20s, 40s, 60s and beyond. And several of them, like myself, have had no close family history of breast cancer.

Q: Why did you get a mammogram?
Stephanie: During my annual physical in 2022, shortly before I turned 40, my doctor recommended that I schedule my first annual mammogram. I wasn’t looking forward to it, so I kept putting it off. However, in June of 2022, I lost a classmate and friend to metastatic breast cancer. It hit me hard because she was a wife, a mother, and 40 years old just like me. Her passing, combined with close relationships with others who’ve battled this disease, pushed me to get an appointment scheduled.

Q: Was it hard to schedule or get an appointment?
Stephanie: For whatever reason, I felt awkward about calling to schedule an appointment. So, I used Huron Regional Medical Center’s online form to make my first mammography appointment (I’ve had two now.) I provided my information, chose appointment dates and times that would work with my schedule, and then they called me with available options that met my criteria. The day of the mammogram was just as easy, I simply checked in with Admissions and went back to the Radiology department. I would guess I didn’t have to wait more than 10 minutes either time I’ve had a mammogram.
Both times I have scheduled a mammogram I’ve been offered an appointment within two weeks of the scheduling phone call. They work with you to find a time that works best for your schedule. I was only gone from work for around 30 minutes for my appointments.

Q: Does having a mammogram hurt?
Stephanie: It isn’t the most comfortable experience, but it isn’t anywhere near as bad as I had imagined. I think that there are a lot of things that women do for the sake of beauty that are far more painful. It is just a little discomfort for the sake of your health once a year.

Q: What would you tell other women about getting a mammogram?
Stephanie: I wholeheartedly recommend getting a mammogram! The brief discomfort of a mammogram is significantly outweighed by the potential benefits of early detection. It can save lives! As moms, we often put everyone else’s needs before our own. But we need to do better, especially when it comes to our health. Making our health a priority gives us the power to be there for our loved ones.

Call HRMC at 605-353-6334 to schedule a mammogram. Or, visit https://www.huronregional.org/services/radiology-imaging/3d-mammography  to learn more or access the online appointment request form.

Cornerstone team at Huron’s Annual 1 Mile Walk for Breast Cancer
Alyssa Kirk, Associate Advisor
Lori Mack, First Impressions Director, CFS, Branch Associate, RJFS
Liz Opfer, Personal Assistant, CFS, Branch Associate, RJFS
Stephanie Gerrits, FPQP® Client Relationship Manager

 

Stephanie’s “Why”

Husband Trevor and sons
Logan, Evan, and Dilan

Raymond James is not affiliated with and does not endorse Huron Regional Medical Center. 2023.10.17 #312962