A Heartfelt Farewell From Donna Butts
In November 1997 when I stepped into the role of executive director of Generations United I had no idea what an incredible opportunity I was being given. I looked at our $160k+ budget, 2 ½ staff people (including me and the gifted Sheri Steinig) and wondered, along with our founders, if we’d sink or swim. It’s a testament to our vitally important mission and the stellar GU team that we not only kept our heads above water, we soared.
We didn’t do it alone. Few people are so fortunate to have worked in a field planted and tended by compassionate, brilliant people. You may have been one of the colleagues, friends, funders, partners or others who have stood with us along the way challenging and supporting us. I am grateful to you.
As I move into the next phase of my life and work, I can look back and say I feel really good having accomplished exactly what I’d hoped for — to be a clock builder and not a time teller — to build an organization that would last way beyond my tenure. Our mission and name have never changed. The work we lead needs to continue and it will. Team GU collectively has close to 100 years of experience leading the intergenerational movement. With the terrific new leadership of Kristen Kiefer I have no doubt GU and the intergenerational field will continue to flourish.
I’m looking forward to my new role as a senior fellow at Generations United and enjoying the 7th decade of my life. There’s so much still to do and see! Oh the places we’ll go!
Will Rogers said we can’t all be heroes because someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by. Know I’ll be clapping and cheering for GU and for you.
Warmly, Donna.
