Our donors and volunteers make the community a better place for our children and families. In our series, Why I Give, we put the spotlight on some of the generous individuals helping to move our communities forward. This month we are recognizing Liz & Mark McLaughlin.
Liz & Mark McLaughlin | Supporter since 2009
When did you first get involved with Acenda?
While I worked for Acenda (then Robins’ Nest) from 2009-2017, Mark volunteered for various events, so it only made sense for us to continue volunteering and giving when I decided to stay home with our children.
What attracted you to the Acenda mission?
Back then, the tag line was “whatever it takes” and I saw so many of my coworkers doing and giving whatever it took to support the children and families that they served. I really felt that our work was making a difference in peoples’ lives.
What motivates you to stay involved?
I really respect the hard work, care, and compassion of the staff at Acenda. I am proud to support all that they do for people in our community!
Why do you volunteer/donate?
Because I can. If I have time, I volunteer. If I have money, I give it.
What do you hope Acenda will achieve in the future?
I hope that Acenda continues to focus on the people they serve and evolving their services to best support them!
Do you have an anecdote about Acenda that really moved you?
I love the history and how the organization began as a group home over 50 years ago. And, as the years went by, Acenda continued to identify needs in the community and worked to find ways to meet them. Acenda’s continued commitment to excellence has made a tremendous difference in the lives of countless people.
Why is being a donor so important to you?
My giving may not be keeping all of the programs running or transforming a building, but the dollars that I do give will provide a bunch of teens with a fancy calculator for the new school year or special gifts to a child at Christmas. I give because life is hard and we are called to love one another. So, if there’s something I can do to ease the burden for someone else (especially in the midst of a difficult time for them), I feel blessed to have the means and opportunity to do it.
What would you tell to others interested in getting involved with Acenda?
Do it! Ask questions. Learn about the different types of services Acenda provides and the inspirational stories of the children, individuals, and families that they care for. Then, do what you can to support the hard, yet inspiring, work that they do!
Thank you, Liz & Mark, for sharing your Acenda story! If you are interested in getting involved with Acenda, visit our get involved page or email development@acendahealth.org for upcoming opportunities.