After eight years of dedicated service on our Board of Directors, our Board President, Tracy Kennedy, is taking on a new role at Davis Street.
During these past eight years that I have served on the board, I have watched Davis Street push through some real obstacles. The COVID-19 Pandemic was an unprecedented challenge for us organizationally. Our staff was impacted by the Pandemic at the same time we saw soaring numbers of clients needing services in every program. We met this challenge, but it meant we had to do things differently. I witnessed how Davis Street nimbly changed directions, when necessary; how staff diversified and covered multiple positions; and how the whole organization matured in a way that makes me fully confident that we are providing the best possible services to those most in need.
When I’m asked why I am so passionate about Davis Street, it really is a very easy answer for me: Because we take care of the total person. It’s a full circle of care and support – from child care to basic needs to developmental disabilities support and to comprehensive medical care. We are a one-stop shop for life-changing services in this community.
As Board Members, we don’t often have opportunities to connect one-on-one with the clients that we serve. This is one of the many reasons I love the Holiday Basket Program. Each year, my family and I come to Davis Street to pack up goodie bags of toys for kids who may not get any things else from Santa; and we help to fill up bags full of groceries for families. Davis Street also provides a turkey and all the trimmings so families can have a happy and healthy holiday meal.
Last year, an Angel Donor provided $100 bills for each and every family that came through to receive their holiday baskets. I had the great honor of handing out these cash gifts with Rose. Some clients couldn’t believe it, others cried; many were just stunned by the generosity. I directly witnessed what making a difference feels like. This is what Davis Street does every day.
I have been so honored to lead this organization as Board President. I may be stepping away from the Board of Directors, but, of course, I can’t leave Davis Street. As of May 24, 2023, I began my new role at Davis Street: President of the Davis Street Community Center Foundation. In this new role, I will focus on developing the financial endowment that Davis Street needs - and deserves - for a secure future. I will be calling on all of you to support me as we all support Davis Street.
With Dedication,
