November News & Updates
Dear Friends,
As I write this, the house is filled with the smell of freshly baked gingerbread biscotti and roasted chestnuts. My kid is happily snuggled up watching PBS Kids, having just finished our annual reading of “If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving.” Indeed, I have so much personally to be thankful for.
As a leader, I’m feeling grateful for our committed staff and Board of Directors, who make our services possible. And of course I’m filled with gratitude for our amazing community of supporters, who help us keep the doors open year in and year out.
At the same time, I’m holding that gratitude alongside deep sadness. My heart is heavy with horrific violence perpetrated at Club Q, with the continued disregard for human rights as our sisters in Iran stand up against oppression, with the very present reminder of the atrocities that have been and continue to be perpetuated against Indigenous people since that harvest feast in 1621.
I’m also keenly aware that on top of the challenges always present for our clients at this time of year, this year in particular we are facing a housing crisis and increasing economic uncertainty that is impacting all of us, clients and supporters alike. Donations are down; we have even received heartfelt messages from committed donors apologetic that they cannot give this year. It is an anxiety-provoking time.
It can be hard to hold two truths at once, but I’m going to try. I hope each and every one of you will join me in recognizing the gratitude and gifts among the challenge.
With gratitude,
Jessica Walsh
Executive Director
