Nothing is more motivating or inspiring than knowing that someone else believes in you and is willing to put their trust in you. It is one of the greatest feelings on earth, regardless of your age. I was reminded of that this past week when I received a call from the great team of people at National Gypsum® Fort Dodge. They called to tell me that Linking Families and Communities had been selected by their local staff as the charity of choice for Giving Tuesday and would receive $25,000. They went on to explain that they felt that our organization, which focuses on early childhood issues, including child care and mental health, is working to make a difference in the community. I was almost speechless! I probably used the words 'honored', 'awesome' and 'blessed' too many times in my conversations that day, but it is truly how I felt and how all at Linking Families and Communities still feel.
The donation we received was part of a larger giving campaign. National Gypsum®, as a company, gave out $1 million in donations to 35 of their locations. Their recent press release quoted Thomas C. Nelson, National Gypsum® chairman, president and CEO, saying:
"Giving back to the communities where we live and work is a core value of our National Gypsum® family. We are dedicated to building better futures for our associates, our communities and, above all, those in need. We owe a debt of gratitude to our associates, the communities that are vital to our businesses, and especially to the organizations that do so much to improve the lives of people every day."
We are blessed and honored to be the recipient of this gift. We are thankful that the team at National Gypsum® Fort Dodge believes in our vision, mission and the work we've been doing. It feels awesome to have their support and through their generosity to be able to do more in our community!