November Message from Carol Jackson, Executive Director
Posted November 11, 2021
The Thanksgiving holiday is swiftly approaching and the evidence is everywhere. The air is brisk, leaves are donning their brilliant fall colors, and grocery store shelves are filled with ingredients that make family dinner traditions special. I am thankful when I think of family gatherings, cooking holiday favorites, spending quality time with loved ones, and for the scientific innovations that allow us to share those special times again.
The staff of Families Matter was not immune to the impacts of the pandemic. Some suffered from the virus, others lost loved ones and yet the organization was sustained. Two people behind the scenes were consistently in place offering support and assistance wherever needed.
During this Thanksgiving season, I’d like to recognize and offer my sincerest thanks to Kheli Pearson and Mareena Shipp who support Families Matter in every facet of training and education. Whether they are calling program participants, ordering refreshments, creating reports, communicating with educators, securing meeting spaces, or running our various social media platforms, Kheli and Mareena are essential members of our team who support our outreach efforts every day.
Corporations, foundations, and nonprofits would not exist without those whose names are not usually known to the public but who make the face of the organization shine. Many people who work in nonprofits are driven by passion and their belief in the mission, rather than financial gain. Their talents allow the organization to operate at its highest level and Families Matter is no different. My deepest appreciation to Kheli and Mareena for their ongoing dedication to Families Matter and to the communities we serve.