Alldredge Farewell Letter

December 31, 2008

Friends of Alldredge,

Life is ultimately about transitions. Alldredge Wilderness Program now finds itself at a time of ultimate transition. As we have all borne witness to what has been described to be a global economic crisis, we have in a dramatic fashion found ourselves in a position of "walking the walk"; practicing the concepts we have taught in Journeys through the ten years of Alldredge's existence. Even though our work is even more necessary than ever, the economic realities have reached a point where Alldredge Wilderness Program cannot continue to operate.

The faith and belief in our mission was so strong that our corporate parents at InnerChange continued to subsidize our efforts to help families despite losing money for the better part of the last two years. Their commitment to our mission has been admirable. At Alldredge "walking the walk" means that we believe there are no coincidences but that things happen for a reason, and that what is a lesson today is a blessing tomorrow. Pat O'Brien, one of the Village Elders, said the other day that now he will have to get a job because he hasn't worked for ten years. When your job is your life mission, you are truly a blessed individual. All of us who have had the opportunity to be at Alldredge over these past ten years understandably have a sadness about where we stand today but also truly believe there is another calling, that while at this point is perhaps unknown, will be just as powerful and influential as the experiences we have had over the last ten years.

Yes, these are tough times but people grow only through challenge. We are all connected and the experiences we have shared in the past, while difficult, made us stronger and so too will these new challenges. Some cultures believe in celebrating a death and focusing on the joy that person's life brought into the world. There is a time to mourn but also much to celebrate. Our Alldredge community, our sense of Alldredge family, will continue even if the physical form no longer exists.

Once again let us be mindful of what is most important. During these times let people know how much you love them and how important they are in your life. We can go forward embracing transitions and step into a new year recognizing that with the sadness of a passing comes the excitement of a new beginning. Here's to the best new year ever.

With love and gratitude,

Mike Beswick and the Alldredge staff throughout the years

PS: If you are an Alldredge alumni and need your transcript, click here. All other inquiries should be directed to InnerChange.