Jennifer LeClair | YWCA Women of Excellence Honoree
What inspires you to get up and do the work?
Kids deserve equal access to opportunities and experiences, and I love being part of an organization that so tirelessly works to eliminate the opportunity gap that exists in our country and in the communities we serve. The work we do levels the playing field for the kids we serve and provides them with the academic and social emotional support they need to reach their full potential. Knowing that I have the privilege of playing a part in that work is so rewarding.
What have you learned about yourself through the challenges you have overcome?
I have learned a lot about my own resiliency, and discovered I have all the strength I need to fight for things that are worth fighting for. I also know that I am not defined by the mistakes I made on the path to get to where I am today, and that a growth mindset can get you through even the most challenging and difficult times.
How do you take care of yourself?
I have to be able to find time in every day to quiet my mind, which can be difficult when there always seems to be a critical task that needs my attention. Whether it is putting in headphones and going for a run, shutting myself in my painting studio in the evening to focus on a project, or spending time with my daughter and husband, I know that I have to find ways to relax my mind and truly commit to prioritizing those things if I want to bring the best version of myself to work every day.
What is the best advice you've ever been given? Or what advice do you have for others?
Sustainable change doesn't happen overnight - it takes patience and persistence. If there is something worth fighting for, be committed to seeing the fight all the way through to the end and know that it will take courage and perseverance to get there.
What is your vision for our community? Has it changed through the pandemic and racial justice reckoning of recent years?
Working collaboratively within the community yields, in my opinion, the greatest results. At Boys & Girls Clubs, we focus on leveling the playing field for the kids and families who need us most, and there are oftentimes critical resources that are beyond the scope of what we provide directly at the Club. People of all ages deserve equal access to opportunities, regardless of their zip code or their circumstances. When we leverage support for all individuals, leaning on the collaborative of incredible organizations we are fortunate to have, we can help provide the best possible opportunities for all. Seems like such a simple vision, but it really is a simple concept - working together for the greater good.
The mission of YWCA is to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. What does YWCA's mission mean to you?
In order to empower women and eliminate racism, it is necessary to actively speak out against injustice when we see it. Silence is complacency, and I know that I can't be an engaged participant in bringing about critical change if I am too timid to speak out. Allyship requires persistent and intentional actions to dismantle oppressive systems. It is so important to truly listen to marginalized individuals, learn from them about the barriers they face, and support them in tangible ways.
