Stokes Will Serve As Tin’s New Director
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This Is Noteworthy
By Becca Finley
When I utter the words “community leader,” I often wonder what exactly does that mean? When I visualize those types of people in my mind, I think of government officials, perhaps the head of a service organization, or a local business owner. But, I must remember that some of the best, and most exciting work, happens quietly with small acts of kindness and an utter willingness to hustle, behind the scenes, without an ounce of recognition.
For about a year, I have had the opportunity to sit in collaboration with one such person. I have watched her bring food, drop off flowers, offer kind words, hold someone’s hand, and show up with a full and whole heart to serve. She has opened doors, offered great council, and listened intently with her entire being. I have watched her struggle with being human, and witnessed her willingness to care for others, WHILE still caring for herself, and honoring her boundaries. It is quite magical.
What I didn’t expect was that one day, in the very near future, fate would play many cards that would present both of us with an opportunity to work together…one that we couldn’t refuse.
But, it didn’t happen overnight. It took three months of talking through values, of asking hard questions about long-term impact, on an individual level, and a community-wide level. We spent dozens of hours sifting through potential personality pitfalls, and flaws in our own beings. We sifted through what our personal goals were for the people within the town; and then reflected upon the things that could give any one member a leg up, and those became our new collective goals. It always feels good when two become one for the mission of purpose, and helping provide spaces for people to live within the questions of what it means to be human.
So, with that, I welcome Lauren Stokes, to the tin family, as our new Executive Director, of our Water Valley hub. We couldn’t be more thrilled, and know she is going to contribute in ways that are thoughtful, purposeful, and filled with impact. We really wanted to honor this position with someone who LOVES this area, and has seen it through many iterations. Someone who will respect its beautiful past, live in the now, but make strides to keep elevating it to new heights, alongside the many other important organizations, people, and businesses who have been here for the long haul. We believe that she was, is, and will always be a gracious community leader.
If you have any questions, or want to send Lauren a big fat hug, congratulations, or how you can support her in this new endeavor, don’t hesitate to reach out. Zac and I, and our whole team and board, are over the moon. We know you will be too.
