YES  Nature to Neighborhoods 
 
In the darkness of winter, we seek light, warmth, and the company of loved ones.  This December, each Tuesday, we're sending campfire warmth your way through  stories of YES participants that offer hope, inspiration, and a light in the darkness. 

As we consider the political climate confronting us, we know new and significant challenges lie ahead for the families and in the neighborhoods we serve.  You can help make more stories, more campfires, and more hope possible by supporting YES's work. 

We're grateful for the outpouring of support thus far, and are nearly one third of the way to reaching our $75,000 goal by year's end! Every donation made through December 31st will be matched 1:1, and every donation will support transformative experiences in the outdoors for YES youth and adults.  

This week we bring you a story from our adult Wellness Program of planting herbs to heal a neighborhood. Please enjoy!

Warmly,

Eric Aaholm, Executive Director
Community Wellness: Fulfilling the Promise in This Neighborhood Requires Tenacity - and We Have It
One Friday morning at Wildcat Creek in North Richmond,  Guadalupe, Maria, Dawn, and I clipped and tore, making sure to get to the roots of the invasive ivy. It was like they were saying, "Not on my watch: This cottonwood tree shall live. It will thrive and grow to be strong. It will reach its fullest potential."

Though we'd planned to finish at noon, the three women could not be persuaded to leave the patch of ivy they were clearing. Here was one thing they could do to make a difference, to save a life. 

Yes, it was the life of a tree, but their determination to save it went deeper than that.  I had seen their collective determination many times: It is connected  to their determination to save their families, their children and grandchildren, their community.     


T ana Monteiro 
leads YES's Wellness Program. Her recently published story spans one week, begins with gunshots, and ends with the "promise of a future of hope and dreams".

 

More Ways to Support YES!

Consider a holiday donation in honor of a special person in your life. A special gift letter will be sent to your honoree in acknowledgement.
Support YES through your regular online shopping!
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"In my journey with YES, I have met parents who valiantly address their challenges every day and lead by example. Witnessing these special moments brings me lasting joy and a passion to ensure their lives continue to be enriched through YES." 
- George Eade, YES Volunteer since 2005

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