President's Letter
Dear Pressley Ridge Friends,
I read a quote the other day that resonated with me. “Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.” The growth of Pressley Ridge has been a mix of short steps, courageous leaps, and slow, steep climbs. Through it all we have been guided by the Principles of Re-Education, our mission, and our values. And we have persevered.
In 2007, Pressley Ridge celebrated its 175th anniversary. Pittsburgh, our birthplace and headquarters, celebrates its 250thanniversary in 2008. Such milestones inspire this report’s theme. Permanence is demonstrated by our long, fruitful history and commitment to always be there for the kids who need us. Perseverance is in the very nature of our work and a key quality of our dedicated staff. Persistence is how we fulfill our “as long and as much as it takes” commitment to our kids, families, and communities.
This theme is reflected throughout the annual President’s Report—in stories of parents, children, and Pressley Ridge staff overcoming obstacles, in groundbreaking research based on long experience, in the work of our programs around the world.
As we continue to grow, learn, heal, and teach, we not only celebrate our successes, but even more, the bravely persevering spirit of the children and families in our extended family. Seeing the world through their eyes opens us to exciting possibilities, renewed hope, deeper insights. Pressley Ridge staff return home each day a little changed, a bit awed, strengthened. The courage of our children and families inspires us to continue to do more, to be better, and to always set our hopes high.
Permanence. Perseverance. Persistence. In the year ahead, Pressley Ridge will continue to celebrate and build on our long history of service. We will persevere in our work to build healthy, productive, and joyful lives. And we will persist through our belief in positive change, healing, and strength.
B. Scott Finnell, Ph.D., LCSW
President and Chief Executive Officer