A Culture & Community of Generosity - Compass Cares

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A Culture & Community of Generosity

By Sadie Hess, Founder & CEO

Living Generously: A Core Compass Value

At Compass, generosity isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are. It’s one of our core values and a powerful way we strive to be a blessing to others, rooted in our deep gratitude for the many blessings we’ve received. Generosity is a way of life here, and this year we’ve experienced it not only through grand gestures, but also in the quiet, simple moments—like picking a flower for a friend, helping a neighbor with yard work, or donating time to a local charity.

Everyday Kindness Makes a Big Impact

Generosity doesn’t always require money. It can be as simple as showing up, offering your time, lending your kindness, or writing a note. It’s not only about helping strangers, it’s also about loving the people already in your life. Sometimes, the most meaningful acts of generosity are directed toward those closest to us. These intentional, thoughtful moments often land the deepest—because they’re personal and filled with love.

Meet the Generosity Committee

This year at Compass, we’ve been building a true community of generosity. We started a Generosity Committee, led by none other than Cassandra Sales. Cassandra has made generosity an art in her life, and I am so proud of the group of people who have stepped up, brainstormed, and collaborated on efforts to spread generosity throughout the Compass community. What’s even more beautiful is how these efforts overflow into our other core values like community and faith. We’re seeing people give together, show up for one another, and learn that it’s okay to ask for help—and trust that someone will come alongside them.

Introducing: Generosity Bingo!

One of the creative tools Cassandra made is our Generosity Bingo—a thoughtful and fun activity designed to inspire simple acts of kindness for strangers and friends alike. It’s helping people grow in the awareness of what generosity can look like and encouraging us to be generous not just with resources, but with our time, our presence, and our hearts.

Serving the Broader Community

Compass has also planned multiple events this year to serve our broader community. From picking up bags of trash and helping at local soup kitchens, to volunteering at animal shelters, organizing Generosity Fairs, participating in creek cleanups, supporting Bridge to Belonging events, and so much more—the impact has been wide-reaching and deeply felt. One of our clients even started a Generosity Facebook Page where community members can post or give away items that others might need. It’s been a beautiful reminder that we all have something to offer.

Supporting One Another in Real-Time

The Generosity Committee has also been able to support individual staff and clients in meaningful ways. One client needed help keeping her Disney+ subscription, which is part of her daily routine—the committee stepped in and covered that. When a team member moved out of state recently and was facing the financial stress of relocating, the Compass community rallied together to raise over $650 for him and his family. The Generosity Committee matched those funds, sending him off feeling deeply valued and cared for.

Join the Generosity Movement

If you want to stay connected, join our Compass Generosity Facebook Group where you can follow monthly events, share needs, or be part of the giving. The stories pouring in this year have filled my heart with joy and pride.

A Personal Reflection on Giving

On a personal note, I’ve been donating to Sober Grads this year—just one small way I can give back and support something good in my community. I think we often get stuck in the mindset of “I’ve done enough,” but lately I’ve been embracing a new question:
“Can I do more? What more can I do for the people in my community—and for the people I love?”
This heart posture has shaped my 2025 in the most meaningful ways.

The Transformative Power of Generosity

Because the truth is—generosity changes us. It benefits the recipient, yes, but it also transforms the giver. When we realize we have something—anything—to give, we gain both gratitude and purpose.

I’m excited to see what becomes possible when a group of people lean into generosity together. Our collective generosity doesn’t just lift individuals—it uplifts the entire community.

Because generosity isn’t about what you give. It’s about who you are.

The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.
Pablo Picasso

 

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