Giving thanks

As Thanksgiving approaches, we at the YWCA have taken time to reflect on what we are thankful for in each of our personal lives. As an organization, we are thankful for the faithful support of our loyal donors; for the opportunity to serve thousands of people a year and help them on their the road of self-sufficiency; and for the opportunity to daily work for our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.


Take time today to think about the things that you're thankful for you in your life -- good health, good fortune and the love of family and friends. As you reflect on those things, please consider that there are those who don't have the same blessings as you and me. They suffer from abuse at the hands of loved ones or have lost their home because of unfortunate circumstances.


This Sunday, the YWCA of Charleston will partner with Wellington's of Scarlet Oaks and Roark-Sullivan Lifeway Center for the 22nd annual Thanksgiving Benefit Dinner. While you're enjoying a fine feast at Wellington's, you're also helping to feed thousands of homeless people in our community this year. So join us in giving thanks and helping to give back to those who have less.


We will leave you with some thoughts of gratitude from a few YWCA staff members:

• "I am grateful for the amazing women in my life." -- Felicia Bush, YWCA Resolve FAmily Abuse Program Director
• "I'm thankful for being pleasantly plump, because I've always had food to eat. I'm thankful for being able to sometimes feel sad, because I know what it's like to experience many different joys. " -- Karin Hamer, Manager of YWCA Past & Present Gently Used Clothing Store
• "I am so thankful for my family and for the love from my children and grandchildren; for my dear friends and prayer partners; and for every blessing I receive." -- Carol Carroll, YWCA Resolve grants manager
• "I'm thankful for my family, all of the blessings that I have received throughout my lifetime struggles, and another day of life and freedom for we know not what tomorrow may bring." -- Carrol Bautista, YWCA administrative assistant
• "I am thankful that each new day brings another opportunity to touch someone else’s life in a positive way; for the friends and family that brings me happiness and support; and for God who brings a sense of peace and strength to my life." -- Amie Brada, YWCA Sojourner's administrative assistant
• "I am thankful for my precious child, and the opportunity to be a part of his life; our family, who care for one another through successes and challenges; for the power and love that guides our world." -- Carol Egnatoff, YWCA Child Enrichment Center program director
• "I am thankful for my health, my home and my salvation." -- Sandy Benedict, Program Director of Shanklin Center and Alicia McCormick Homes
• "I'm thankful for my loving husband, two beautiful children and a career that gives me the opportunity to help others and work with amazing women." -- Rachelle Beckner, YWCA Development Director