Suncoast Stars Community shines bright during fundraising event

Under a bright morning sky Feb. 28, people of differing cognitive and physical abilities laced up their shoes — running, walking and rolling — in support of a nonprofit that provides life-enriching programs for adults with disabilities. 

Suncoast Stars Community hosted its second annual Stride to Thrive 5K/1 mile Walk and Family Fun Fest at Grace Community Church. 

Mary Lou Fenton and her husband, Bob, founded Suncoast Stars Community in 2022 for individuals with developmental, intellectual and physical disabilities. They operate at Tabernacle Church, located at 4141 DeSoto Road.

Mary Lou Fenton said it is important to realize that every day, the people they serve struggle with things like processing information, coordinating movements, controlling impulses, and managing emotions.

"When they finish high school, most don't go on to college or go on to pursue a career, or live in their own apartment," Mary Lou Fenton said. "Most will never drive a car. It's hard for them to find jobs. Life is very different for them."

At Suncoast Stars Community, the stars part of the name stands for specially talented adults raising standards. Those members participate in dance, music, fitness, nutrition, knitting, crafts, Bible study, and more. 

Liz Raedeke, who served as the race director, teaches dance and fitness classes. Members performed one of the dances for attendees at the race. 

"Seeing the community coming together to lift up our stars and support our mission to enrich the lives of adults with developmental disabilities is an incredible feeling," Raedeke said. "It is truly by the grace of God that we have had so many wonderful people cross our paths to get involved with our organization."

Julie Audet is a board member at Suncoast Stars Community. Her two daughters, Jenny and Laurel, are stars. She said the program brings so much joy to all of the adults who attend. She said it is an honor to be part of it.

"We need more individuals who aren't parents to help, because we are aging," Audet said. "This is this is the most rewarding thing I've ever done in my life."