First step Competitors

The Stepping Stones Foundation preserves the historic home and archives of Bill and Lois Wilson, co-founders, respectively, of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon Family Groups, and commemorates their achievements in the field of recovery from alcoholism. The Foundation, created by Lois Wilson in 1979, maintains the historic home and its contents, the writing studio, archives, gardens, and grounds, and offers guided tours by reservation. Stepping Stones is a non-profit, tax-exempt and privately-run historic site. It received the honor of being designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2012 by the U.S. Department of Interior. "I felt right at home when I visited Stepping Stones. I can tell that Bill and Lois wanted us to visit. If the fellowship is an extension of my family then Stepping Stones is home." - visitor Arthur B. "It's as if a bell jar were put over the house...it's in the same condition as Bill and Lois left it. I learned so much from the tour guides and the other visitors about the legacy of the Wilsons that I can't wait to come back and learn more." - visitor Helen K. Stepping Stones is located about an hour north of Manhattan, NYC, by car or train to the Town of Bedford, Westchester County, New York. See the "Visit" page to check tour availability (limited for 2018) and plan a visit.

Fresh Start Surgical Gifts transforms the lives of disadvantaged, uninsured, and underinsured children by providing free, comprehensive medical care for physical deformities and other conditions caused by birth defects, accidents, disease, or abuse. Through the gift of a Fresh Start, we offer life-changing reconstructive surgeries and medical treatments to children in need. Since our founding in 1991, Fresh Start Surgical Gifts has delivered over $60 million in free medical services to infants, children, and teens—helping more than 9,000 young patients from across the U.S. and around the world. Each year, we provide care to approximately 400 patients, ensuring they receive long-term, individualized treatment for the best possible outcomes. Some of our patients remain with us for years, receiving ongoing care as they grow. We host 10–12 Surgery Weekends annually at our locations in San Diego, CA; San Antonio, TX; Chicago, IL; and Worcester, MA, where renowned medical professionals volunteer their expertise to perform transformative reconstructive procedures. Our comprehensive approach also includes Dental Clinics, Speech Therapy Clinics, Laser Treatments, and Preventative Health Education—addressing each child’s unique medical needs beyond surgery alone. Fresh Start Surgical Gifts is a vital resource for children and families who lack insurance, have been denied coverage, or don’t know where else to turn. Help us spread the word and make a difference—together, we can give every child the fresh start they deserve.

DFW New Beginnings is a non-denominational church in Bedford, TX.