STAR Executive Director

"Good leaders make people feel that they're at the very heart of things . . .Everyone feels that he or she makes a difference to the success of the organization. When that happens people feel centered and that gives their work meaning."

- Warren Bennis

Dear Friends:

I came to Hagerstown in 1985 to direct the operations of the Anita Lynne Home, a subsidiary of Melmark Home, Inc., operating in Berwyn, PA. At that time, this place I now call home consisted of just two houses for 19 individuals who were developmentally disabled. With the assistance of other staff, one secretary and a part-time accountant, the grass got mowed, medications were administered, classes taught, meals cooked and houses cleaned. And, those 19 individuals were taken care of.

COMPASSION AND COMMITMENT
I mowed the grounds, I administered medication, I taught, I cleaned, I took care of all things great and small and . . . . as was the practice at the time, I took care of people.

Since those very humble beginnings, Star has grown to become a place rich in not only tradition, but rich in innovation and rich in its service to the Lord and to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Sharon Campbell Landis

VALUES AND VISION
Today, we recognize and respect individuals for their abilities, not disabilities. It’s no longer about taking care per se -- it’s all about integration, interaction and involvement. It’s about removing barriers, opening doors and realizing dreams. It’s about participation.

The same sense of mission that led to the founding of this organization over 30 years ago still burns brightly, although the challenges have changed as the individuals served have matured and the world has opened up to them and for them.

EXCELLENCE IN OFFERINGS
What began as a home for four young children is now a vibrant, growing organization — a community of 32 adults with developmental disabilities who enjoy some very extraordinary amenities including:

six different residences
a greenhouse
a swimming pool
a recycling center
a chapel
a bike and wheelchair trail
a picnic pavilion
a fishing dock and pond that is wheelchair accessible
a therapeutic riding facility
special day programs designed to meet participants personal needs, desires and abilities
and a very talented and dedicated staff

We have the highest rating that can be achieved by any (State) licensed facility and are among an elite group of organizations to be awarded the Maryland Standards of Excellence designation.

RESPECT AND INDEPENDENCE
We’re designing new programs to meet the changing needs of the residents, growing with them, expanding their world, their hopes, their dreams. And, we’re participating and connecting with the local community now more than ever.

I’m pleased to say that we work hard to making this community of residents, the greater community of Hagerstown, and the world a better, richer place.

We’re providing a level of service that is second to none, and one that is rich in tradition and excellence. We are Star Community, Inc. and I am privileged to be a part of it and invite you to be a part of our mission as well.

With Many Blessings,

"The moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help that would never otherwise have occurred. A stream of events issues from the decision, raising unforeseen incidents and meetings and materials assistance which no man could have dreamt would come his way."

From"The Scottish Himalayan Expedition," by J.M. Dent

Click here to see Sharon's Profile as printed in the Herald Mail.