Join me for the MSC Helps Luncheon
September 28, 2026 | Note from the CEO
Dear Community,
As the leaves start changing and fall arrives, it’s a joyful reminder of when I joined the MSC team as CEO three years ago. One of my first experiences in meeting the incredible community that supports our work at MSC was the MSC Helps Luncheon. The energy, the hope, and the commitment to MSC’s mission shared by those in the room that day confirmed for me that this was an organization, and a community, where amazing things can occur to uplift our neighbors.
I hope you will consider joining me on October 15 for this year’s MSC Helps Luncheon. Garry Gilliam, former Seahawk and founder of the Empower the Bridge Foundation, is our keynote speaker. Garry defines his life story as perseverance through adversity. He is now giving back by building communities that offer people who are facing the adversity caused by systemic oppression and racism an opportunity to persevere.
We will be honoring Jesse Johnson with our Help, Hope, Change award for his commitment and passion for uplifting community! Jesse has a long history of community service in South King County, including serving as a Federal Way City Councilmember and on the Washington State Legislature.
Our Board President, Teleda Holmes, will also be sharing how MSC impacted her family’s well-being and how that shaped her personal commitment to our mission. This year’s MSC Helps Luncheon will be another inspiring event where we can build community and come together to provide equitable access to advocacy, opportunity, and well-being for our neighbors!
And, as Hunger Action month is coming to a close, I want to thank those of you that stepped up to help take action against hunger. Whether that was through volunteering, hosting a food drive, or donating to our triple match (available through the end of September), we thank you for helping to ensure that our neighbors have food this month, and every month of the year, through our food access programs!
With gratitude and care,
Kirsten York
CEO