Stella Ashcraft: A Life of Service, Learning, and Heart  

When you meet Stella Ashcraft, one thing becomes clear immediately: she has a heart as big as her life's achievements — and that's saying something. A proud mother of four, grandmother to eight, and caretaker to a furry family, Stella radiates warmth and connection. As the eighth of twelve siblings, "family" is more than a priority for her — it's the cornerstone of who she is.  

Stella has also competed in several Senior Olympics, bringing home an incredible 26 medals this year in events ranging from javelin and table tennis to pickleball. This competitive energy and perseverance mirror the same passion she pours into volunteering, mentoring, and uplifting her community.  

A Lifelong Volunteer  

Stella has been volunteering her entire life and now gives her time to more than ten  different organizations in the St. Louis area — including Oasis. Many of these commitments are inspired by her late father's medical journey, as she supports causes connected to his diagnoses.  

"It's very, very important that you give back in your life," Stella reflected.  

Stella's journey with Oasis began in a way that feels almost destined. A lifelong reader, she spotted a magazine listing a volunteer opportunity for Oasis' Healthy Habits for Children program. She picked up the phone, applied, and soon found herself at Ferguson Elementary School introducing students to new, healthy foods.  

"It was more than ten years ago, but I can still remember that first day," Stella shared with a smile.  

Since then, Stella has also volunteered as a tutor for third graders, cherishing the joy of shared reading and focused attention. Recently, she was selected as an Oasis Grand Champion, ready to be a steady presence and listening ear for foster teens.  

"I love children. I love family. I saw a need there, and I felt a calling," she shared.  

Stella's volunteer journey has been strengthened by her involvement with Give 5, an Oasis program that connects older adults with meaningful volunteer opportunities in their community. 

"If you don't know where to volunteer, Give 5 is an amazing program," she commented. "It helps you see different organizations, learn their needs, and find the perfect fit for your skills. Each time I've gone through it, I've walked away with something." 

Healthy Habits, Healthy Life 

In addition to volunteering, Stella participates in Oasis classes to invest in her own well-being. Most recently, she joined the Healthy Habits program for adults, where she's learned to read nutrition labels, cut back on soda, and embrace moderation in her diet. 

She credits her progress to the supportive, family-like environment and the guidance of instructor Joann. 

"When you know better, you do better," Stella said. "It's giving me an opportunity to look into my lifestyle and see the changes I can make that will help me." 

A Life Well-Lived, and Still Giving 

For Stella, service isn't just something she does — it's who she is. Whether she's standing on the podium with a Senior Olympics medal around her neck, helping a child sound out a new word, or encouraging a Healthy Habits classmate, she approaches every moment with the same determination, kindness, and joy. 

Her life is proof that giving your time can change not only the lives of others, but your own as well. 

"Step out and let Oasis be your number one choice for volunteering," Stella encouraged. "They have the tools to help you. You can feel the warmth and welcoming presence from the Oasis team as a whole." 

With her boundless energy, open heart, and drive to serve, Stella Ashcraft continues to inspire everyone she meets — proving that the best kind of legacy is the one built on compassion, connection, and community.