Lesson in Peace and Generosity: Reflections on this Easter Weekend – wayne centrone

As the Executive Director of HBI, I am often asked what inspires me to keep going and continue pushing forward in our mission to build futures for children, families, and healthcare professionals. The answer is simple and profound: it’s the boys we are privileged to care for, and the incredible team of staff who pour their hearts and souls into this work daily.

On this Easter weekend, a time of reflection, renewal, and hope, I am deeply moved by the lessons of peace, generosity, and compassion that unfold before me daily. These lessons don’t come in grand gestures or monumental achievements, but in the quiet, simple moments that remind me of the true meaning of care and integrity.

I think about the other day, when I saw one of our boys sitting with his little brother. The younger boy had been upset, his tiny shoulders trembling with frustration, and without a word, his older brother wrapped his arms around him. It wasn’t just a hug—it was a gentle, unspoken reminder of love, safety, and connection. Watching them, I was struck by the beauty of that moment. It was a reminder of why we do what we do, and why we must never stop working to ensure that HBI has the resources to continue building futures for children and families.

These moments of love and care are not isolated. They are the very fabric of our work. Every day, I see children helping children, staff members sitting quietly with a child in their most vulnerable moments, simply holding space for their tears and frustrations. These acts of compassion are profound in their simplicity, and they remind me that care is not about fixing or solving—it’s about being present, about showing up with love, patience, and understanding.

Our staff is the heart and soul of HBI. They embody the values of compassion and integrity in everything they do. Their dedication humbles me. I see it in the small, quiet acts that often go unnoticed: a teacher staying late to help a child with homework, a caregiver gently encouraging a boy to try again after a setback, or a staff member taking the time to listen, truly listen, to a child’s fears and dreams.

And then there’s our administrative team—the unsung heroes of our organization. Their work is often behind the scenes, rarely recognized, but absolutely essential. They are the ones who keep HBI running and ensure that we can live our mission every single day. From managing budgets to coordinating logistics, from building partnerships to nurturing our community of supporters, their tireless efforts make everything we do possible.

I think about the countless hours of communication, connection, and planning that go into building and sustaining our partnerships. These relationships are the foundation of our work, and they require an extraordinary level of commitment and care. Our team pours their hearts into this work because they believe, as I do, in the power of community to create change.

And then there’s you—our community of donors. Your generosity is the reason we can do this work and the reason we have such a dedicated and passionate team. Every gift you give and every moment you spend supporting HBI is an act of love and belief in our mission. You are part of this story of care and compassion, and we are so deeply grateful for you.

As I reflect on the true meaning of care, compassion, and integrity this Easter, I am inspired by the beauty of our work together. I am inspired by the boys who remind me every day of the power of love and connection. I am inspired by the staff who give so much of themselves to this work, and by the donors who make it all possible.

I am reminded that peace and generosity are not abstract ideals—they are lived experiences embodied in simple, everyday moments of care and connection. They are a brother holding his sibling, a staff member sitting quietly with a child, or a donor choosing to give.

As we move forward, I am committed to ensuring that HBI continues to be a place where these moments of love and care can flourish. I am also committed to building futures for children and families, supporting the healthcare professionals we train, and nurturing the partnerships that make our work possible.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Thank you for believing in our mission and sharing our vision of a world where every child knows the safety and love they deserve.

May we all be reminded of the power of peace, generosity, and compassion this Easter. May we all find inspiration in the simple, beautiful moments of care and connection that surround us daily.

With gratitude and hope.