Q&A with Jay Allen President & CEO – Wayfinder Family Services – Holiday 2023

Wayfinder Family Services President & CEO

What are you grateful for this holiday season?

I am grateful for Wayfinder’s past, present and future.

Wayfinder’s past includes the trailblazing work
of my predecessors. As only the fourth CEO in the organization’s 70-year history, I am so fortunate to build on their vision for an equitable world. Also, I’m grateful for the generosity of our past donors, who developed and sustained Wayfinder’s solid foundation. Their commitment enables us to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our communities. I am honored to continue this remarkable legacy.

Wayfinder’s present includes children, youth, adults and families who face challenges with courage. They are an inspiration to me. And I’m so grateful for our staff, who stand side-by-side with our clients so they can overcome challenges and achieve their potential. Our staff never give up. They do whatever it takes to turn potential into reality. I am humbled by the work I witness every day. Also, Wayfinder’s accomplishments would not be possible without the commitment of our current supporters. Thank you for lighting the way.

Wayfinder’s future is so bright! As we navigate the post-pandemic landscape, I believe there are two certainties: things will be different, and Wayfinder is well-prepared to meet this moment. I am grateful for our committed board and leadership team, who have developed a comprehensive five-year strategic plan to guide us. Working together—staff, board members, supporters—we can change the future for the children, youth, adults and families who turn to Wayfinder in need.

Please make a contribution so that all our services remain free of charge to families, most of whom are low-income. You will help children and families who turn to Wayfinder achieve their full potential

 


OUR MISSION
Wayfinder Family Services ensures that children, youth and adults facing challenges always have a place to turn. This mission is guided by our values:

Inclusive – We stand up in support of equity and social justice, and we stand against injustice and racism. We strive to build an equitable world for our clients and staff.

Empathetic – We seek to develop a deeper understanding of our children
and families. We work to embed empathy into our decision-making, interactions and actions.

Collaborative – We can’t do it alone and we must do it together. We work in partnership to address the holistic needs of children and families.

Whatever it takes – We never give up. We will always be there for our children and their families.

Innovative – We are agile and forward-thinking. We continually seek out better ways to help children and families thrive.

Driven – We take every opportunity to move forward in our strategic direction and to create meaningful change.

Family – We provide families with a supportive community and resources so they can thrive. We want every child to grow up in a loving family.

 

December 15, 2023