Executive Director's November 2024 Message

Get ready for World Kindness Day. World Kindness Day is observed on November 13th and was introduced to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness for good which binds us. 

Coincidentally, the Department of Human Resources recently rolled out its “Get on Board with Respect” campaign to promote the city's Equitable, fair, and respectful workplace policy. If you look closely, it’s really about treating one another with kindness. We usually take time in November to share our gratitude over Thanksgiving. This year, let's be intentional about spreading kindness throughout the month.

Practicing kindness can be especially challenging during an election year where the candidates and issues you care about may or may not come out ahead. It’s okay to disagree or have different opinions through civil discourse, which is the act of actively listening to understand and share different perspectives to exchange knowledge. Civil discourse is not always easy when emotions run high, so take time for your mental health and well-being.

November also marks the kick-off of the annual Movember campaign, a time to raise awareness around Men’s health topics from testicular cancer and prostate cancer to mental health and suicide prevention. Men die an average of 5 years earlier than women, and many of the contributing factors are preventable.

This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for the men in my life who have supported me, including my father, husband, and sons. They have supported my career, fostered my curiosities, and taught me patience and kindness. Let’s raise awareness for the men in our lives and close the gender lifespan gap.

Be Well,

Abbie Yant, RN MA