Did you know Phoenix Center's Board President is also the longest-serving member of the board? Read more about the incredibly dedicated Lindsay Plante who joined us to share her passion for the Phoenix Center and how it all started in this special Summer Spotlight.
Why do you believe in the Phoenix Center?
Phoenix Center gives hope, health and healing to those who feel like their lives are hopeless and out of control. Mental health issues are rising at an alarming rate. Deficiency of funding for mental health care programs, lack of access to quality care, a shortage of quality mental health professionals, and a patchwork of services make the journey to receive help overwhelming for most. The Phoenix Center is a shining example of how these shortfalls can be overcome and how, if given access to a variety of individualized therapies, children can thrive after trauma.
What led you to the Phoenix Center and decision to be the Board President?
My personal connection to the Phoenix Center started with yoga. When Sarah Garrett was in the beginning stages of building the organization, she shared her vision to use art, yoga, and music as therapy. I jumped at the opportunity and have been involved in the Phoenix Center ever since that conversation.
How have you seen the Phoenix Center impact our community?
Phoenix Center helps not just the child, but also the parents, grandparents, caregivers, schoolteachers, and the community at large. Many children who experience trauma never receive the help they need to heal. And, research shows that traumatized children will eventually go on to victimize their own children. The Phoenix Center helps stop the cycle of trauma and abuse. I can’t count the number of times I’ve had community members tell me what a difference the Phoenix Center made in their lives and the lives of their children.
What is something you want community members to know about Phoenix Center?
Phoenix Center is truly a unique and special place of healing. The entire staff works tirelessly to provide the highest quality care and the most innovative therapies to our community. There is no other organization that provides all of these methods under one roof.
Now time for some fun: What did you want to be when you grew up?
I had some interesting swings in aspirations – one year, I wanted to grow up to be a paleontologist, and the next year, I wanted to grow up to be a waitress. I actually gave waitressing a try for a while. I quickly discovered that I lacked the skills needed to be successful in that job.
What are some of the hobbies you enjoy outside of work?
I love traveling and learning about different cultures. Spending time out on the lake is always something I enjoy. Baking satisfies my sweet tooth.
What's something most people don't know about you?
At the age of 15, I boarded a plane and traveled to Hobart, Tasmania, to live for six months. I had only seen a photograph of my “host family” one week before I left. After 30 hours of travel, I got off that plane exhausted and hoping somebody would pick me out of the crowd. An Australian all-girls private school was quite a change from Marble Falls High School.
