tribute to our founder
This year we acknowledge the enduring legacy that our founder Harriett Morton leaves behind as she steps down as a board advisor.
Founder Harriett Morton (center) with Krystal (left), her original student she tutored in 1996. At right, Carlos, a student Harriett’s husband John tutored.
For the last 24 years she has devoted countless hours working toward providing better educational opportunities for some of the most vulnerable students in the Seattle area. When asked what inspired her to found Invest in Youth, Harriett explained that she sees education as “an enabler for full participation in society.” Her tenacity and determination for this mission have supported the sustainability and longevity of this organization.
Harriett has proven to be innovative in her approach and has always centered the volunteers in the organizational plans. Her concentration on removing obstacles for tutors so they are free to create invaluable relationships with their students has been the cornerstone of her efforts. Harriett remains hopeful that her stepping down encourages positive change throughout the organization and creates opportunities for new ideas.
Invest in Youth would quite literally not be here without Harriett’s dedication and support for the past 24 years. As we enter a new chapter, Harriett’s influence will be missed but her legacy of commitment and hard work in this community will live on in our staff, board and volunteers.