In 2017, Walker Construction approached us to offer our children a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a part of the historic Looff Carrousel renovation. Beginning in the summer, a group of our kids was invited along to visit with architects, construction workers, designers, engineers, artists and so many more, to see real-time examples of what a project of this scope entails. What an incredible experience to be a part of something so historic; the memories the children will take with them are priceless.
If that wasn’t enough, Walker Construction offered Hutton the first offcial ride on the Carrousel once the work was done! When the Looff was moved to downtown from Natatorium Park in 1975, Hutton children were given the inaugural ride and 43 years later we were given the opportunity again! How lucky we are! The children ran with excitement into the beautifully renovated building and got to ride the various animals numerous times, with youthful joy on their faces. The children were allowed to sign a time capsule as well, that will be placed within the Carrousel building.
We cannot express our gratitude enough for the opportunity Walker Construction has given us; the wonderfully remodeled Carrousel adorns our city perfectly. (Keep a look out for the horse named “Hutton!”)
Thank you also to Edison Creative, NAC Architecture, Old Castle Precast, Spokane Parks and Recreation and DCI Engineers for being such an important part of this project with us and for sharing your expertise, engaging with our youth and allowing us to have such a unique opportunity.
We will enjoy the Carrousel for years to come!
(If you click on the photos twice, they will enlarge)
David was nominated by Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers last year. “It is incumbent upon each of us to be doing our part to make a positive impact in our community, and David is a perfect example of that here in Spokane,” said McMorris Rodgers. “Too many youth in our community face unimaginable hardships and often have no one to look to for advice, for an example, or for mentorship. But when they have no one to look to, people like David step up to serve as a positive and often life-changing force to help guide them along their journey. I want to thank David for his unwavering commitment to the Spokane community and to our area’s youth. Congratulations on this important and well-deserved honor!”
On behalf of the Hutton Board of Trustees, President Mary Kuney stated, “The Board is so proud of David for all of his dedicated work and compassion with the children of Hutton Settlement. His unique style in working with the children comes from continual learning of their needs and an innate ability to mentor. David is well deserving of this National Mentoring Award.”
His leadership inspires children to be changemakers within our community and he consistently and enthusiastically encourages youth to feel empowered, heard and loved. The majority of the children coming to Hutton have experienced severe trauma. David makes certain that every child coming through our doors is able to participate in activities that bring them joy, positive childhood memories and lifelong relationships. David’s goal is to transform the children in our care from receivers of services to givers of services by the time they graduate. We are honored to have David as an employee of Hutton Settlement and excited to see his efforts being recognized nationally. We’d also like to thank Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers for recognizing David’s service to the community by nominating him for this prestigious award.
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