October 2020 - Health Bridges International

Seeking Safety

October 31, 2020/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne Centrone

It is Halloween 2020. This is the year we celebrate a Halloween of all treat and no trick. My goodness, nothing feels normal. Nothing feels safe any more.

This morning the two Casa Girasoles homes are preparing for unique celebrations. Neither house celebrates Halloween – the ghosts and ghouls Halloween. Instead, they prepare unique celebrations of the culture and heritage of the local regions. This includes All Saints and All Souls day observations – but more than anything, it includes fun activities for the kids.

Living in Hope

October 26, 2020/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne Centrone

I spoke at First Presbyterian Church of Vancouver yesterday. It was the first time I’ve been in a building, other than an occasional trip to the grocery store, in months.

There were only 10 or so people in the entire sanctuary, but it still felt a bit strange. Every precaution was fastidiously orchestrated and applied. My talk was taped and broadcast to the congregation (if you’re interested, you can watch the talk at [starts at 47:10]: https://youtu.be/zFFvLrS_Kns). The whole production was first class.

I’ve spoke at many churches, civic groups, organizations, and clubs over the years. My talks are usually the same – the who, what, and why of Health Bridges. I talk about the origins of our work and the shift to becoming a 501(c)(3) registered organization. I generally speak about the projects and programs that punctuate our work. I talk about the vision we have for creating better collaboration and partnerships. It’s a pretty standard talk.

Creating Alignment

October 17, 2020/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne Centrone

My wife and I voted last night. It was invigorating. Now, perhaps more than ever before – voting feels like the most important civic responsibility we have.

I don’t usually disclose personal information on this Blog; and I very rarely broach politics. This is, however, not a normal time. Everything has changed. The world as we know it (thanks, R.E.M.) is just not the same. We need an alignment. We need a commitment from the highest political offices and most powerful and influential leaders to chart a path to a future grounded in integrity, honesty, and humility. Too much is on the line, and too many people depend on such leadership to survive.

We’re taking alignment very seriously at HBI. Over the past couple of months, we’ve been digging into conversations at many levels of our organization. Deeply considering our vision, mission, and programmatic focus. We’ve asked important and timely questions like, “who will Health Bridges be in the future?” and “what values will we need to demonstrate that commitment?” We’ve reviewed our programs and projects and considered how we’ve demonstrated objective outcomes.

Learning from and Leading with Nico

October 11, 2020/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne Centrone

Nico (not his real name) was ten years old when he realized he could no longer take care of his little brother. At four years old, his little brother was more than he could handle.

For as long as Nico could recall, he was the sole parent for his little brother. Taking care of him was like taking care of his own son. And, for most of that time – Nico knew what to do. Now, at four years old – Nico didn’t know what to do.

A kind neighbor had always been there for Nico and his brother. She would feed them when his mother left for long periods and did not provide any money for food. She would check-in on them, making sure they were safe and warm in the cold rainy months. Now, she noticed something very different – and she went to the local judiciary to file a report of child endangerment.

It’s all about the people

October 5, 2020/0 Comments/in Blog /by Wayne Centrone

We’re in the midst of a fall fundraiser campaign. Believe it or not, that is not the reason for this blog post.

Fundraising campaigns show me something in a very tangible way – how fortunate we are to have a group of people who keep showing up for us and the work we are doing in this complicated world we are living. I can honestly say that every time we have a campaign, event or fundraiser – you all rally to help.

This is such a huge blessing – on a number of levels. Yes, your generosity helps us to do the work we are called to do in the world; but beyond that – your commitment and belief in our work is such a blessing. Time and time again, the many people who support HBI show me that we are a big family.

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