To our members and network,
Since the unexpected exit of our past President and CEO, Mojdeh Cox, the Pillar staff team has been experiencing many emotions. We’re still trying to find the words to say what’s in our hearts while we walk through this moment. Through all change, whether leadership change or systems change, we believe in the power of both reflection and action. That’s why we felt it was important to gather as a team to co-create a message sharing our thoughts and restating our commitments to you.
At Pillar, our colleagues often say, Pillar is our people. It takes our collective knowledge and lived experiences, along with our passion and commitment, to deliver on our mission and programs. As a team, we care wholeheartedly about the wellbeing of the local community and the challenges and inequities many face. That’s why we’re all here, and we know that’s why Pillar members and supporters are on this journey with us. Pillar is this team, and it’s all of you, too.
In recent weeks, many of you have demonstrated this ongoing capacity for community care. Some have spoken up and asked questions showing your commitment to equity, inclusion and anti-oppression. Please be assured the Pillar team shares your commitments, and that these values underscore all of our work. We’ll continue to build on the momentum of our recent work on policy advocacy, decent work, social justice, and radical accountability, with deep gratitude for Mojdeh’s contributions. Her impact endures in our work and we’ll carry these lessons forward.
We’ll continue to show up because we believe in what this organization has always stood for, how it has evolved, and what it will continue to become. Going forward, deep listening, learning and growth will remain at the forefront of our work. We believe in this team and what we can achieve together, alongside all of you. We’ll approach our work with humility and lead with our hearts to ensure the organization, and our physical space, is a community where all feel welcome to join us in the pursuit of our shared goals.
Thank you to all who have reached out with messages of kindness and support for our team. You have warmed our hearts and deepened our commitment to you. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and our relationships with you. We are here for you. Thank you for being here for us and for each other.
Yours in community care,
The Pillar Nonprofit Network Staff Team