As I embark on my new journey as executive director of The River Center, I am honored to write my first View From the River. In preparation, I have read much of Margaret Nelson's past writing, and I find myself sharing the sentiments she expressed in her inaugural column. 

What can I contribute to impact this community, and how can I write effectively for the Monadnock Ledger-Transcript when I don’t consider myself a writer?

To reflect, I went to my bench by the river. Sitting there, inspired by the breeze and the sun, I thought of the light and warmth of the returning spring.. This warmth mirrors the reception I've received from our board, staff, and volunteers. 

After nearly two decades working in Alaska as the CEO of a breast cancer clinic and a short stint at a Vermont nonprofit, I am happy to be closer to family and to embrace the beauty of New England in Hancock. I am originally from New York. Being from a family that had struggles when I was a child, combined with my many years of work in human services, helps me feel prepared and excited to be at The River Center. Most importantly, it is what we do to help families that makes me feel like I am contributing to my community.

Now in my third week, delving into our mission and programs, I am filled with gratitude for securing a position in my own neighborhood. Here, I collaborate with many dedicated individuals who have warmly welcomed me as I consider the ways my past experiences and enthusiasm can bring value to a thriving community of staff and program participants, donors and volunteers.

I find it challenging to convey the passion and pride I witness in our staff. We are a small team serving Greenville, Mason, New Ipswich, Rindge, Jaffrey, Dublin, Peterborough, Greenfield, Temple and Sharon. As a family and community resource center, we offer parent education, home visits, family support and community connections in a welcoming environment to strengthen individuals and families in the eastern Monadnock region. Our staff forge connections that, in some cases, have lasted many years, providing parents and grandparents with the tools and resources they need and strengthening families across our region.  

Events this month include, Messy Mondays, Baby Time, Pop Up Play and Create, See the ABLE Not the LABEL, Tiny Tots Music and Movement, Troy Toddler Time, Mini Explorers , Weekly Walk and Talk , Safe Sitter Essentials, Families Together and more.

These programs offer opportunities for learning, exercise, making new friends and sharing life struggles and joys with peers facing similar circumstances. They are scheduled at various times and locations throughout the month; subscribing to our website calendar is the best way to stay informed.

But that's not all. Did you know we assist qualifying families and individuals in preparing their taxes? Our wonderful, IRS-certified tax-preparers are caring and knowledgeable. They ease your mind by taking the burden of filling out tax forms off your list — and it's free! 

And while I welcome March sunshine, the cold is not through with us yet. When a family or community member lacks enough firewood for the week – their only source of heat – our volunteers deliver wood from our wood bank, stocked with community donations. It's remarkable to have volunteers who cut, stack, load and deliver!

There is so much more to share about all that we do. As the new executive director, I am excited to bring these stories to you – not just about our programs but also our successes along the way. I trust that the stories are what really matter. Hopefully, these insights will help us all feel more connected. I aim to introduce you to our staff, their specialties and their experiences, inspiring parents and educators to help our families thrive.

In the process, I hope you will get to know me as you have known Margaret throughout the years – as a leader among the dedicated individuals in The River Center  community who occasionally meets a writing deadline.

Odette Butler is executive director of The River Center Family and Community Resource Center. She can be reached at 603-924-6800.