As I prepare to turn the page to a new chapter, I’ve been reflecting on the past seven years I’ve spent at Hutton - on the campus, on the terrace, in the garden, and alongside the incredible children who do and have called this place home.

Serving as Director of Community Engagement and Stewardship has been a sincere honor. Through these years and especially during our centennial celebration, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with generations of Hutton “kids,” from current residents to alumni spanning decades. Over and over again, I heard powerful words and stories like, “This place saved my life,” or “Hutton was the best thing that could have ever happened to me.” I held those words tightly. They reminded me daily of the trust we carry and the life-changing impact of this place.

From the kids of Hutton, I’ve learned about resilience - not the loud, showy kind, but the kind that quietly chooses to try again each day. I’ve seen students show up for school while carrying invisible burdens, offer kindness while still in the process of healing, and dream for their futures, even when life has given them every reason to doubt themselves and others. Their strength builds character and community.

I remember one summer afternoon, standing by the garden with a resident while we were waiting for an interview he was excited to participate in. He had a lot of ups and downs with school, navigating mental health battles that often had him overwhelmed. He shared that he was frustrated, feeling like nothing he did could make a difference. As we stood there, he paused and said, “You know, the garden’s kinda like me. Messy, but still growing.” That moment has stayed with me. It was a reminder that growth doesn’t always look clean or linear, but it happens anyway, as long as we keep showing up.

They’ve also taught me about generosity. Whether it’s welcoming new residents with open arms, offering a hand in the garden, or sharing from the heart when I’ve asked about their experiences, the kids at Hutton give fully. They remind us all that love, when shared with others, multiplies.

One of my favorite traditions each holiday season was reviewing the kids’ Christmas wish lists - lists that our generous community partners helped to fulfill. What moved me most wasn’t the toys or clothes they asked for, it was how often their lists included something for someone else. Notes would say things like, “for my parents,” or “for me to give to my brother” Some kids asked for baking supplies so they could make cookies for their whole cottage, or a craft to share with everyone. Their excitement for giving was genuine and joyful, focused not in obligation, but in gratitude.

That same spirit of giving has shown up time and again in the alumni I’ve been privileged to know - adults who once called Hutton home and never forgot the difference it made in their lives. Some have chosen to leave their estates to Hutton, a powerful testament to the lasting impact of this place and their desire to see future generations experience the same love and opportunity.

One such donor stands out in my heart. He had Alzheimer’s in his later years, and while words and memories faded, it was stories of his childhood at the Settlement that brought him a smile. I came to know him through letters written back and forth each month with updates from me about Hutton and from him updates on his health and memories, all transcribed and shared by his niece. Those exchanges were simple, but deeply meaningful. Even when he could no longer express it clearly, it was evident that Hutton had shaped him, and that his final gift to this home was his way of passing that legacy forward.

Whether young or old, new resident or lifelong supporter, the Hutton community teaches us what it means to live generously and I’ve been so blessed to witness that firsthand.

And perhaps most personally, they’ve taught me about courage. 

Their courage to trust again, to speak their truth, to embrace joy even after pain has been a mirror and a challenge. Watching them lean into growth and healing gave me the strength to lean into my own. I’ve had youth sit across from me and share stories of heartbreak, abuse, and fear but in those same conversations, they often talk about their goals, their passions, their dreams. That kind of hope in the face of what they’ve endured isn’t naïve, it’s courageous.

It’s their examples that give me confidence as I step into new adventures, trusting that hope really holds us through the unknown.

To the Hutton community, alumni, donors, partners, former and current board members, thank you. Thank you for supporting a place where healing is possible, where home is more than a building, and where hope is always within reach. Your belief in this mission has changed lives - including mine.

Though my role may be changing, my love for this place and its people remains strong. I’ll always carry the lessons learned here, and the deep gratitude that comes from being part of something so rooted in purpose, love, and legacy.

As I step away, I’m thrilled to introduce Kristal Jabara, who will be stepping into the role of Director of Community Engagement and Stewardship. Kristal brings a heart for service, an appreciation for Hutton’s mission, and experience building meaningful relationships. I am excited to see how she continues to grow Hutton’s reach and deepen our community partnerships.

Thank you again for allowing me to share Hutton’s powerful story, and for helping grow the legacy of love that Levi began over a century ago. My heart remains with this place - and especially with the “kids”, whose strength and spirit have forever shaped mine. 

All My Best, 

Jessie