Traveling along life’s journey sometimes you know where you are going, and sometimes you get an unexpected adventure. It all depends on which exit you take.
I am choosing the exit of retirement on Friday, April 24. It will be my last day with Third Street Alliance as director of development. But, before I leave, I want to share some thoughts with you.
I have had a long and very varied career, beginning with working in the field of corrections in the 1970s. At the time, I was fortunate to be the first woman in several positions, both in employment and in community involvement. I worked for the courts handling child support hearings and enforcement before taking a break to raise my son. Coming back to a profession after a decade had challenges, but through volunteering, I found my way back to a series of wonderful employment opportunities, including working with animals, a historical society, the YMCA, a museum, and finally, Third Street Alliance. Every experience I had in my life and in my career led me to this organization fully prepared to understand the mission of helping children and families.
What I did not expect is how Third Street Alliance would enter my heart: The vision and energy of our leadership; the sincere caring of our staff; and the gratitude of those we guided on their way to a better future.
But the most touching of all are the people and organizations that support TSA. Never doubt for one minute that you make an impact. But the first impact is on you, the giver. Making a gift, great or small, feels good.
Every donation, whether through the mail, online, or delivered in person, passes through several people. From the first person who receives your gift, notification is passed through several others who all receive it with thankfulness. Believe me, when I tell you that often your donations bring tears – of gratitude, of surprise, of delight! You make an impact on individuals, the organization, and our community.
I want to take a few minutes of your time to express my gratitude for all the gifts you have given me. I have received the priceless gift of your friendship, the sharing of your time and your talents, your unique reasons for being a helper, and the joy of seeing your generosity. All of it has made a profound impact on my life, and I’m going to miss it. You have been the best part of my working life.
Although I move on to the next adventure in my journey, I leave you in very good hands. The development team remains strong and is looking forward to working with Beth Archer, the incoming director of development. I have had the honor of working with Beth for the past several weeks, and know that she already feels a strong connection to Third Street Alliance.
Thank you for all you do for our families. Thank you for all you did for me.
Sincerely,
Kimberly Rose
