When we decided to start Dylan Jude Harrell Community Center, I was very clear that the people who did the work were just as important as the work. I feel grateful each day to collaborate with such fun, creative, different, and impressive human beings. Our work is hard, but these people show up, day in and day out, with a smile on their face, a hug for the little one who greets them off the bus, passion for this community, and a willingness to say HECK YES when approached with a new idea. I get a little emotional thinking about how much this team has accomplished in the first few years - growing from a small team that wore many hats, to a bigger team that still wears lots of hats. When people thank me, I am sincere when I often deflect and say that it’s not me who they should thank, it’s this team - some days I truly just pay the bills!

When I think about the future of The Center, I think about the people leading the way, and those who will lead the way for generations to come. I hope that in two decades, you’re reading a message here from a leader in this organization who was a kid in our program these first few years. In the end, that’s what it’s all about - creating the next generation of local leaders who will continue to invest in our mission, just as this team does. We’re all grateful to do this work, to have this space, and to be trusted with these roles; none of which is possible without you. We can’t wait to get to know you and work with you to make this community even stronger than it is!