December 9, 2019
Sometimes it only takes one person to change your life. One to be there for you, to push you, to believe in you. It only takes one.
For Olivia, a student at Arbutus Middle School, that one person is someone she hadn't seen since 3rd grade, but will never forget: Linda Green, Site Director of the Y’s before and after school enrichment program at Catonsville Elementary.
When Olivia's teacher asked the class to write about someone who impacted their lives, Olivia knew exactly what she wanted to say:
"Caring. Intelligent. Loving. Have you ever had someone in your life like this? I have. Her name is Ms. Linda who is the director of the Y at Catonsville Elementary. She was always thinking of others and was nice to everyone she met. Ms. Linda helped me become the person I am today! I wouldn't be where I am right now her support! Thank you, Ms. Linda. I have always looked up to you!"
Being a young person’s hero is a mighty thing. Clearly, Linda Green’s impact on Olivia is still meaningful three years afterwards. I’m sure that Olivia isn’t the only one who feels this way. So, please join me in thanking Linda for her incredibly important work and leadership here at the Y and in the lives of so many young people.
Linda, and so many of her colleagues across the Y, exemplifies what is best and most essential about our work: the importance of showing up, personifying the Y’s values and being a source of quiet and steady inspiration and joy in the lives of others.
Thank you Linda.
All the best,
John
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland