First Published August 6, 2026
From Shari Carlson, Executive Director
Upon joining the Craig’s Doors team last December, one of the first things that struck me was the incredible foundation that has been built here. Fifteen years of service is an extraordinary milestone, and it speaks volumes about the compassion, dedication, and perseverance of this community.
For 15 years, people have consistently shown up for one another, expanding the social safety net for our most marginalized and vulnerable neighbors. Staff, volunteers, donors, faith communities, and supporters have helped create something truly meaningful: a place where people experiencing homelessness are met with dignity, care, and humanity.
At the same time, these past 15 years have also brought growing challenges. Housing and food are more expensive, resources are stretched thinner, and more people in our community are experiencing homelessness and housing instability than ever before. The costs of running an organization have increased as well: from the utilities and supplies we use, the IT infrastructure and support we need, to the most important resource we have — our staff — our operating expenses continue to rise.
Celebrating this anniversary is not only about honoring how far Craig’s Doors has come, but also recognizing how critical this work continues to be as the need in our community continues to grow.
More individuals are facing housing instability, rising costs, and barriers to accessing support. Homelessness is becoming more visible, more complex, and more urgent, and Craig’s Doors continues to evolve to meet the most basic needs of our neighbors experiencing homelessness through our emergency shelter, resource center and low-threshold housing and services programs. We provide safe, welcoming places to connect with services and renewed hope while protecting our guests from the harsh outdoor elements.
Looking ahead, we are focused on strengthening our organizational infrastructure and ensuring that every person who walks through our doors continues to be met with compassion, respect, and support.
The future of Craig’s Doors depends on you choosing to turn your compassion into action. Your donation makes a real difference. As we celebrate 15 years, we invite you to be part of what comes next.
With gratitude,
Shari Carlson
Executive Director
Shari Carlson (left) and Gerry Weiss (right)
From Gerry Weiss, Board President
When Craig’s Doors first opened in 2011, it was built almost entirely through community determination. People across Amherst and the surrounding communities stepped forward because they believed homelessness was something we could address together.
Over the years, I have watched Craig’s Doors evolve from a seasonal emergency shelter into a year-round operation offering shelter, resource navigation, community partnerships, and compassionate support for people experiencing homelessness.
But what has never changed is the heart of this organization.
Craig’s Doors has always been powered by people who care deeply about their neighbors. Every meal served, every shift volunteered, every item donated, every dollar given; all of it has been part of building a stronger and more compassionate community.
As we mark this milestone anniversary, I feel tremendous gratitude for everyone who has helped sustain this work over the past 15 years. Our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters have made Craig’s Doors what it is today.
You have helped create a place where people are treated with dignity, where they can find safety in moments of crisis, and where they are reminded that they matter.
Warmly,
Gerry Weiss
Board President