Legacy for Literacy
Joy McCarthy-Sessing served as the Chamber President and Economic Development Executive Director At the Same Time! She was a hard-working, brilliant woman who could go toe-to-toe with anyone. She brought many industries to our community by showcasing our assets and desirability. There are hundreds of businesses/restaurants/shopping malls, etc, that we now enjoy because of her foresight and determination to get them to our community.
Because of Joy's grasp on our economy, she realized that literacy was the cornerstone for economic freedom. Thus, our organization's services in the community were critical. If we had adults and children who struggled with reading, we would have more crime (86% of juvenile offenders struggle with reading), and we would be required to provide social services to them. Conversely, if we can ensure children and adults are learning how to read, they can pass their driver's test, fill out a job application, get a job, get a house and continue a cycle of pouring money INTO the community.
Joy was beloved by all the board members who have served with her over her 23 years as a board member. She was sage, smart, savvy, and knew how to accomplish things. She also had a great understanding of the community and the people that make up the community.
She will leave a big hole in our organization and we are so thankful for her investment of time, talent, and treasure for a majority of her life's work.
She was instrumental in the growth and sustainability of Operation Read. Over the years, she willingly and eagerly served in every officer position. She always said yes, even to those very early morning meetings she disliked! (Lol) - as long as we had coffee! She was willing to do menial tasks like putting tassels on bookmarks or complex reviewing of financial reports. We were blessed to have her insight, skill, cheerleading, and mentoring.
Joy will leave a blank page in our organization but the chapters she wrote leave her legacy for literacy forever.
We love you so much Joy and will miss you. Thank you for your Legacy of Literacy.