A letter from the executive director
Did you hear about the Total Eclipse that took place on Monday, April 8, 2024? If you were not aware of its going on, I am sorry you missed it. I recall a conversation a good friend and I had a year and a half before the Eclipse’s actual arrival date and the excitement that was felt. The Eclipse was the hot topic of news and social media every day for months. So much planning to anticipate the moment the sun disappeared behind the moon. I had friends coming in from New Orleans, there was an Eclipse Party to plan, so much work seemed involved to get to this four-minute period of total darkness that I was not sure how to react. Would it all be worth it?
The friends arrives, the party was a hit… AND THEN the moment came. It was as if all the planning and work it took to het to this point were forgotten. I simply sat back to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the moment. It was miraculous and awe-inspiring.
In many ways the Eclipse reminds me of the work of St, Joseph’s Community Foundation. Just like the Eclipse, St. Joseph’s created miracles and awe-inspiring moments. Throughout the years we have helped students who saw a medical career in their future but were not sure how to get there, nor did they understand how much work and preparation would be involved. And then finally the moment comes, and with the Foundation’s help, they reach that end goal. The moment is real and beautiful, and much like the Eclipse, inspiring.
While the eclipse is a rare occurrence, the Foundation helping others though Community and Educational Grants is an annual occurrence. I am blessed to serve as the Executive Director.
Best Wishes,
Louisa