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It Makes A Difference

A starfish on a beach.

Have you heard the story about the child and the starfish from Loren Eiseley’s The Star Thrower? 

There have been many different adaptations. The version I love goes something like this: A young girl walked along a beach where thousands of starfish had washed up after a terrible storm. With determination, she picked up one starfish at a time and tossed them back into the ocean. 

A man standing with a crowd on the beach bent down to her and asked, “Little girl, what are you doing? There are too many. You can’t begin to make a difference.” She simply smiled, tossed another starfish into the water, and replied, “It makes a difference to that one.”

The man looked out at the beach filled with starfish, bent down, picked one up, and sent it back to the ocean.

Soon others came forward, each picking up a starfish and tossing them back into the ocean until the beach was once again just sand.

It’s a simple story, but one with a powerful message: even small actions matter. During the holidays, when the season of giving is in full swing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of requests from worthy causes. Our inboxes fill with appeals from charities, and the need can feel so vast. We may wonder, “What can I do? Can I really make a difference?”

The answer, as demonstrated by the residents and associates at Watermark communities, is yes. They choose to “pick up the starfish” time and time  again — in creative, fun, and heartwarming ways that show even the smallest actions can make a lasting impact.

Residents at The Hacienda at the Canyon performing on stage.
Musical Talents

The Sound of Giving

The Hacienda at the Canyon residents took to the stage to showcase their talents with their hilarious parody-inspired Oklahoma! Every year, Hacienda residents put on a musical parody for their summer theatrical production. Songs included hits like "The Shiny Little Shuttle with the A/C on Top," "Everything's Up to Date in Oro Valley," and, of course, "H-A-C-I-E-N-D-A Hacienda!” Cast member Jan wrote the first stanza: "Hacienda! Where the members drink a little wine. They love to meet and greet and visit while they eat, then go home and fall asleep by nine.”  

This talented group didn’t just entertain their community — they raised $2,000 for Watermark's nonprofit, Watermark for Kids, proving that a little creativity can go a long way in making a difference.

Residents at an art show gathered around a few paintings.
Artisan Show

Creativity With A Purpose

Residents and associates of The Watermark at Cherry Hills organized an artisan show that celebrated craftsmanship and community spirit. From handmade barrettes and hairpins to stunning paintings by residents like artist Bill H., the event was a vibrant display of talent. The proceeds from the show were donated to Watermark for Kids, demonstrating that when people unite their skills and passions for a good cause, even small efforts can ripple out to create meaningful change.

Residents throwing small basketballs into a net.
Annual Country Fair

Fun, Furry Friends, and Fundraising

The Watermark at 3030 Park brought down-home fun this summer with their annual Country Fair. Residents spent the day enjoying classic games, live music, and even some furry friends. Best of all, they raised $1,000 for Watermark for Kids.

The Gift of Action

The beauty of these stories is that they remind us how important it is to act, even when the challenges seem immense. The residents and associates at Watermark communities continue to pick up the starfish — one by one. In the end, it’s the collective weight of our small actions that add up to something far larger than any one of us.

As the holiday season approaches, this idea feels especially poignant. In a world that often demands more of us than we think we can give, the reminder that we can make a difference — no matter how small — is one we need to hear again and again. We don’t have to change the world, but we can always do something. And that something, no matter how humble, matters to those we help.


Looking For A Way To Make A Difference?

For those who feel inspired, Watermark for Kids offers a way to turn that inspiration into action. The nonprofit is dedicated to helping kids aged 6-22 overcome barriers and access life-enhancing opportunities. 

Kids like Tasmia and Ana, two remarkable high school students who are taking bold steps toward fulfilling their aspirations in the medical field, thanks to a grant from Watermark for Kids. These driven students are members of HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America), where they’ve demonstrated exceptional dedication to their studies, community service, and future careers.

A kid who is a part of Watermark For Kids.

Tasmia's Path To Success

Tasmia is an outstanding student and dedicated volunteer, deeply involved in her local community. She actively participates in service projects and regularly volunteers at The Watermark at 3030 Park. Her engagement in HOSA has further solidified her determination to pursue a career in the medical field. Despite her family’s financial struggles, Tasmia has refused to let limited resources stand in her way. Her dream is to work in the medical field, and the opportunity to enroll in an EMT training course at the Echo Hose Company in Shelton, Connecticut, is her first step in that direction.

This training will not only enable her to work as an EMT while attending college but will also provide her with invaluable skills and access to a network of health care professionals. For Tasmia, this experience will be a game changer, helping her overcome financial constraints and launching her on a path toward her dreams.

An EMT uniform close up.

Ana's Story Of Determination

Ana, another bright student and future leader, serves as the secretary of HOSA. Her involvement in school activities, clubs, and community service has fueled her passion for helping people in crisis. 

For Ana, the EMT certification is more than just a job opportunity. As a first-generation student pursuing a career in the medical field, she sees this training as a gateway to both professional experience and financial support for college. Ana’s passion for serving her community and helping those in need drives her to excel, and this certification will provide her with the practical knowledge and experience needed to succeed in her future endeavors.

One Small Act Can Change A Whole Life

Do you live in a Watermark community and know a child in need? Perhaps you have a connection with a teacher, guidance counselor, social worker, or coach who works with kids who could use a little financial help to achieve their goals. The opportunity is there to make a difference — sometimes all it takes is a small step, a small act of generosity, to change a life. Visit Watermark for Kids to read more about the kids people like you have helped.

If you're interested in donating to Watermark for Kids, you can learn more about them here.