Holiday Letter and Groundbreaking Photos!

Season’s Greetings,

This holiday season, my family and I have been pondering the significant influence a single person—or organization—can have on the lives of others. I instantly think of the cherished holiday film: It’s a Wonderful Life. Each time I watch it, tears well up as I realize my father was like George Bailey—a dedicated, selfless man who invariably does what’s right. In the movie, George learns that the town of Bedford Falls wouldn’t be what it is without his contributions. His kindness, commitment, and perseverance affect countless lives, creating a ripple effect that alters the world in unimaginable ways. At the Youth Center, our mission feels quite similar: each child we assist has the potential to grow, succeed, and positively affect our community, thanks to the care, guidance, and opportunities we provide.

This has been the most challenging year of my professional career, navigating a capital campaign to expand our facility—a demanding, exhausting, and hard-fought endeavor that tested every ounce of perseverance and resolve.

At the end of 2024, I stuck a treasured photo to my office window at the Youth Center—a picture of my father and uncle, beaming with golden shovels as they broke ground on our current building 25 years ago. I recall that day vividly. That image became my daily source of encouragement: on days when the campaign felt daunting or the goal seemed nearly unattainable, I’d look up and see my father’s infectious smile. In those moments, I felt his presence, urging me on, reminding me that with determination and heart, anything is achievable.

This year, we reached an extraordinary milestone—one that feels as magical as Christmas morning. In October, we celebrated an almost surreal moment: I stood alongside my Assistant Director, Carly, golden shovels in hand, and we broke ground on the Matt Congdon Wellness Center—the very vision I set out to achieve after my father passed away in 2019. Completing this capital campaign has been like unwrapping the greatest gift: the culmination of hope, generosity, and tireless effort coming together to bring a dream to fruition. What made this moment even more special was that it mirrored the photo that inspired me, connecting the past with the future in a single, unforgettable moment.

Witnessing this new chapter unfold, I was struck by the incredible journey that brought us here. Twenty-five years ago, I watched my father, Matt Congdon, tirelessly pursue a dream that would provide a permanent home for the children in our community. From the first shovel of dirt to the final construction milestone, his dedication inspired me as a child—and now as an adult, I am humbled to carry that torch.

This expansion represents so much more than bricks and mortar. The Matt Congdon Wellness Center will restore peaceful study areas, create a dedicated STEAM space with VR headsets and Chromebooks, and offer innovative opportunities for kids to stay active in fun, engaging ways. Just as my father envisioned decades ago, we are providing a sanctuary where every child—regardless of circumstance—can feel valued, supported, and inspired to thrive.

I am filled with gratitude for everyone who believed in the Youth Center and invested in our mission. Completing this capital campaign has reminded me that the true spirit of Christmas—generosity, hope, and the joy of giving—exists every day through the support of our community. Our children—bright, resilient, and full of potential—are the reason we strive every day to do more. And thanks to your generosity, we are poised to continue shaping their futures in meaningful ways.

Although we reached a remarkable milestone, the task remains ongoing. We have never been an organization to become complacent. As we progress toward 2026, your support is still essential for advancing our mission. Today, I urge you to assist our exceptional children with a donation.

As we celebrate this season of gratitude and joy, I hope you share in our pride and excitement. From our family to yours, thank you for helping make this milestone possible, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, laughter, and love.

With heartfelt thanks,   

Molly Congdon-Hunsdon

Executive Director