START History

Stoughton Area Resource Team, Inc (START celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2021, marking two decades of compassionate and re)sponsive community service. The organization began in 2001 when Pastor Sue D'Alessio of Stoughton United Methodist Church gathered a group of church and community leaders to ask a simple but powerful question: "How can we better support our neighbors in times of need?" That question became the catalyst for the formation of the Stoughton Area Resource Team (START), officially incorporated on October 4, 2001. Social Worker Kelly Janda was hired as START’s first staff member, working just three hours per week on a modest $3,000 budget funded by local churches.

As the needs of the Stoughton community expanded, so did START’s reach and capacity. By 2012, Kris Gabert was providing support 32 hours per week from an office in the Stoughton Area Senior Center, backed by a $90,000 annual budget. During this period, START broadened its services beyond emergency financial aid to include more robust case management, deeper collaboration with schools and landlords, and expanded partnerships with area churches and civic groups.

Over the years, START has played a vital role during times of community crisis. In 2005 and 2006, following a devastating tornado, START stepped in as a central hub for recovery support. Three part-time case managers, guided by the Executive Director, provided trauma-informed assistance to 165 tornado survivors—161 of whom received financial grants totaling $311,000, all from local donations. This response highlighted START’s unique ability to rapidly mobilize resources and adapt services in times of acute need.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic tested communities nationwide. START responded by increasing service hours, transitioning to virtual support, and adapting to rapidly changing needs. The organization fielded 142 new crisis contacts, provided direct financial assistance to 179 households impacted by job or income loss, childcare disruptions, and health concerns, and delivered intensive case management to 253 households. Staff conducted 480 socially distanced or virtual visits—ensuring continuity of care even amid uncertainty.

As of 2025, START’s growth is reflected in its dedicated team and expanded infrastructure. The organization now operates with a full-time Executive Director, Laura Braund; full-time Case Manager, Lauren Coyle; and part-time Executive Assistant, Amanda Johnson. START continues to strengthen its foundation, deepen its community partnerships, and expand wraparound services designed to prevent homelessness, reduce poverty, and promote long-term stability for individuals and families throughout the Stoughton area.