Dearest VOA Community,

It is with profound sadness that we share with you the loss of our one and only, Bridget Cannon, VP of Program Operations. Bridget was more than a leader, she was a true force of compassion, a tireless advocate, a guiding light, and a dear friend. To know her was to know a woman who gave of herself completely and fiercely, every single day.

Bridget’s warmth and humor filled every room. She was the best storyteller, quick to laugh and ready to lift others up. But beyond her colorful spirit was her devotion to those she served. For 32 years, Bridget walked through our doors with determination to make sure young people were seen, heard, and supported. Her dedication was limitless, her heart enormous.

To her colleagues, Bridget was more than a mentor, she was family. She taught us how to do this work with courage, authenticity, and passion. She challenged us to be better, to reach further, to care harder. Her influence reaches far beyond her years with us, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of working beside her.

As a VOA family, we are grieving a loss that feels impossible to put into words. Bridget’s kindness, grit, and extraordinary heart will remain woven into the fabric of our work and our lives. We honor her legacy by continuing the mission she held so dearly.

Her impact on the lives she touched knew no bounds. Here are just a few examples of the kindness and wisdom she shared with us all:

"I've been with VOA for over 12 years now and have learned more from Bridget than I can put into words. She taught me the reason we do what we do. Her passion was infectious. I will never forget what our true mission is, and I will do my absolute best to continue spreading the wisdom I was lucky enough to obtain from her."

- T.J. Regalado

"She was a great listener, always asking the hard questions that encouraged me to think for myself. She supported me through many challenges, let me fail, and reminded me that if I wasn’t failing, I wasn’t truly learning. I’m grateful for the time I had learning alongside Bridget and that she let me get to know her."

- Wendy Alderson

"Without even trying, she had broadened my thinking and sharpened my ability to engage in new ways. Her ideas were not only insightful but often contagious, sparking a level of curiosity and reflection that I hadn’t expected.

While she may have been eager to learn from me, the truth is, I had already learned so much from her. And for that, I am deeply grateful."

- Brandon Martin

We could easily write an entire book of what Bridget has contributed to VOA and the countless lives she has changed over the years. Her passion was and still is truly invaluable. Our community and all she walked alongside in it are forever changed. Bridget Cannon, you have a permanent place in all our hearts. ❤️

Thanks to all of you, this year’s Mardi Bras drive has been nothing short of incredible! Through your generous donations and festive parties, we’ve collected an astounding number of essential items for those we serve- proving once again that this community shows up with heart and purpose. And this is just a fraction of what’s been gathered so far!

💟It's not too late to help out! Join us tomorrow for the drop-off event at Transitions' Women’s Hearth from 4pm-6pm. We'll be there with bells, ahem, with BEADS on- ready to scoop up your donations! 💟

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing beside us year after year. We couldn't do this work without you!