A Message from the Board Chair

This year, as I worked together with members of the Board and the amazing Hildebrand staff on a new Strategic Plan for the organization, I was reminded of how powerful and life-changing the impact Hildebrand has on the children and families in its programs. Families come to Hildebrand at such a traumatic time in their lives: without a home of their own, often without employment or adequate financial resources, and possibly as new arrivals to the area with language, health and immigration barriers. And the impact of this trauma is felt by each and every member of the family. No matter who they are and what issues these families face, Hildebrand is always here for them—steadfast, resilient, ready to transform lives and disrupt this pathway of homelessness and poverty. Last year, Hildebrand worked with over 1,000 individuals through its shelters, supportive programs, and Stabilization Services team—and over 60% of those family members were children of all ages.

I was also reminded of how innovative and responsive Hildebrand is, and has been for the past 34 years. When COVID impacted the education of children in shelter, Hildebrand created the Student Success Education Initiative to keep each child on track with their educational goals and learning environments. The pandemic also brought significant mental health challenges for children and their parents, with the isolation of lock-down, health risks, and constant changes in safety protocols and procedures. Again, Hildebrand found extra resources, re-trained and hired staff, and connected with community programs to provide the emotional support and counseling needed by these vulnerable families. And the organization moved boldly forward with its own innovative planning and projects including increasing its permanent housing portfolio with the purchase of an 11-unit apartment building in Dorchester; creating a community outreach and education program for residents facing eviction; and completing a new Strategic Plan to guide Hildebrand forward for the next five years. This new Strategic Plan is bold and will require Hildebrand to grow and change as we tackle the systemic upstream factors of homelessness and poverty.

I am thankful to be a part of Hildebrand—an organization fueled by resilience and innovation whose mission is to ensure that every family has a home. And every year, Hildebrand uses this unique combination to help more than 1,000 individuals—moms, dads, and children who are our neighbors and community partners—heal, stabilize, and find new homes. Hard to imagine a more rewarding mission! Thank you for your connection to Hildebrand, and I look forward to staying in touch.

Kelly Blackburn Chair, Hildebrand Board of Directors

Hildebrand Board of Directors

Officers

Kelly Blackburn, Chair

Kelly S. Mann, Vice Chair

Glenda Allsopp, Treasurer

Michelle Meiser, Clerk

Members

Anthony D. Galluccio, Esq.

Sarah A. Holmes

Jessica Howe

Wendell Joseph

Clifford Long

Dariela Villon-Maga

Reverend Ellis Washington