Its all a Matter of Perspective.

The way we see things colors our entire world. Two people can view the exact same thing and come away with entirely different ideas. For example, if I write 'Samaritan House's best effort is n-o-w-h-e-r-e,' what image resonates in your mind? Do you view the statement as a commentary that our best is nonexistent (nowhere) or that we are hitting our stride (now here)? Same amount of letters in the identical order... totally different implications.

Over the past year, Samaritan House served more than 32,000 meals and housed over 1,120 people. We hosted our 2nd annual Project Homeless Connect as well as numerous 4th Friday Concert Series. The Cowboy Up Benefit Auction, Dinner and Concert also provided a little western flare for the community.

Recently, our Help Portrait event was held and we sponsored the Flathead Valley's sole

National day of Homeless Remembrance at Depot Park. It was an intimate ceremony to honor our homeless brothers and sisters who have died over the past year.

Hundreds of volunteers assisted us in every way from practical, physically intensive tasks, to sorting donations, cleaning, cooking, preparing meals, and painting. If it takes a village to raise a home, then it truly took a community to help our (Samaritan) house. Thanks to all of you who helped along the way.

Saving lives was also a high priority in 2011 as we partnered with the Red Cross in holding blood drives at our Administrative Center. Our most recent drive collected 35 pints of blood, and each pint is the equivalent of saving 3 lives. Case Manager Cary Krager noted the importance of "Presenting the opportunity for people to give. Giving blood costs nothing, but means everything."

So... how did we do this year? Much was accomplished and we believe we are most definitely on the right path in regard to addressing the homelessness issues in Kalispell and the Valley. But are we satisfied?

Not on your life. It is our perspective that, while we managed to do a great deal, the best is yet to come.

We invite you to partner with us as we look to surpass 2011's accomplishments. We humbly anticipate a great year to come and look forward to playing a role in helping people change their lives.