I was sorry to learn of the actions of the former executive director of 4 the Children. There is no excuse for her actions and the betrayal of trust the board gave her.

And the board could have had more oversight of the executive director and financial protections in place. Having said that, it is important to note that 4 the Children reported the theft as soon as it was discovered, reported it to the authorities, did not try to hide anything and, in fact, sent a letter of apology explaining the event to all funders.

I sit on the board of one of those funders and I have found the agency’s efforts to rebound from this devastating occurrence admirable and forthright. I would challenge any adults to claim they have never made a mistake but as Confucious was reported to have said, “Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.”

The current co-directors and board of 4 the Children have shown a great strength of character in their handling of this event. I encourage interested community members to contact the board to hear for themselves what safeguards are now in place in this organization.

Let’s support 4 the Children in moving forward.

Martha Tinsley Minot

Durango