The crowd of volunteers, staff, and donors had just left the Day of Caring/Campaign Kick-off breakfast at Barley Creek. I sat in my car and reflected on the surprise acknowledgement of my 15 years of leading non-profits in the picturesque Pocono Mountains. I have been fortunate to witness the incredible impact of the caring power of community for one and a half decades. This community has not just been a place on a map. It has character. It shares a sense of responsibility, compassion, and generosity. Those characteristics have made it a privilege to lead.

Throughout this time, servant leadership and service over self have been concepts impressed on me by mentors and leaders that have come before me. “Lead with humility” is a resonating reminder that the role of leader comes with great responsibility to care well for every person that my team and I cross paths with. It also reminds me that I don’t have all the answers; that the strength of our organization relies on the diverse talents and perspectives of our team. I am so grateful for the team!

None of the success that I am recognized for is solely my own. It has been made possible only with remarkable donors that trust us to be good stewards, and the caring board members, staff, and volunteers who have placed their trust in my leadership. THEY are the heart and soul of our organization, working tirelessly to fulfill our mission and improve the lives of those in our community. Their dedication and selflessness have been a source of inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of collective effort.

As I reflect on these 15 years, I thank God for working through me, and my wife for always supporting me. And to my children, that provide ongoing motivation to love people well. Thank you!

So, without any more verbosity, and eyes welled with tears, I also thank each of you for your trust, notes of encouragement, and ongoing willingness to live UNITED.

-Michael