Reflections on 2020 from our Executive Director

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Dear Friends and Partners, 

This has been a difficult year to say the least. However, I believe that in times of adversity and hardship the strength of community shines bright. Throughout 2020, I’ve had the privilege of realizing this truth almost every day through the actions of each and everyone of you in the Elevate Youth community. COVID-19 hit our communities the hardest, and nature’s refuge became even more distant from our youth. To me, the importance of our work has never been more clear. 

Despite every obstacle thrown at us, here are some highlights from this year: 

  • 125 regularly served youth

  • 62 outings in local parks and green spaces

  • 300 at-home nature kits delivered to our youth & families

  • Our first summer fellowship, which brought the voice of two college students from Dorchester into our organization

  • A vibrant new initiative, "Educate, Access, Thrive” (E.A.T.) which introduces health & wellness to our curriculum

  • 530 Holiday meals delivered to families of Elevate Youth

  • An incredible new program in collaboration with the city of Cambridge and with our co-instructors from the Work Force Program

This year, we are thankful for the strength of our partnerships, our mission, and our community. With all of your generous support, we have created opportunities for safe exploration of outdoor spaces, provided refuges for self expression, and instilled a sense of belonging to our youth in hard times. Most importantly, we have discovered the evolving need for - and critical importance of - our organization during these difficult times. As we heard from one of our parents: “We continue to be grateful for all that Elevate Youth does for youth and their families. I hope you guys know the crucial difference you make in the lives of youth and all those connected to the EY family".

I am wishing health and happiness to everyone and their loved ones this holiday season. We hope you are able to make some time to get outside and embrace the gift of nature. 


With gratitude,

 

Alec Griswold

Executive Director


Alec GriswoldElevate Youthnature, reflection, 2020, elevate, youth empowerment, community, mentorship