Lee and Lynda Harrington have been a powerhouse duo at Catholic Community Services (CCS). Lynda has been involved with Catholic Community Services Foundation (CCSF) as a valued board member for almost 20 years. Prior to his retirement, Lee joined CCS as the Chief Medical Officer 30 years ago with the encouragement of then-CEO Jim Seymour.
During her time on the CCSF board, she has chaired the Legislative Action & Development Committee, the Monastery Acquisition Committee and the Monastery Endowment Fund. As the CCS Chief Medical Officer, Lee mentored several interns from the Community Counseling Center as well as helped to form the Fostering Hope Initiative (FHI) program that currently serves hundreds of families.
“Before meeting Lynda and Lee, I always knew them as amazing leaders not only with CCS but the community and state,” said CCS Volunteer Services Coordinator Heidi Frederick. “I remember the true warmth and humility they showed when we attended the same functions and served on some committees. Lynda’s smile and acceptance of others is so paramount in her life.”
Lynda has become more aware of the needs in the community. She commented that it’s often safe and easy to “remain in our bubble,” but going out and serving others is more satisfying and follows Christ’s teachings. Lee and Lynda have always been faithful supporters of Father Taaffe Homes, even taking young women into their own home when necessary. They also been volunteers at the Father Taaffe Homes booth at Oktoberfest. Lee is impressed with the wrap-around services provided to the youth, and believes CCS is one of the best programs for encouraging their growth and success.
They are drawn to CCS due to the fidelity to Catholic Social Teachings. Lynda has witnessed these principles put into action with every CCS program and the services provided to thousands of individuals each year. She emphasizes putting our Christian values into action and is inspired by her favorite scripture passage, “Whatever you did to one of the least of these brothers and sisters, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40) Lee is motivated to share his talents due to his strong Christian faith and feels called to be a part of the CCS mission, inspired by both Jim Seymour and Josh Graves. Lee and Lynda try to live by the quote attributed to St. Frances of Assisi, “Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.”
They both draw inspiration from their parents. Lynda’s father almost died in an aircraft carrier in the Navy, and that near-death experience created in him a renewed appreciation for life and passion for giving back to others. Lee’s mother was a very strong, outspoken Irish Orthodox Catholic and true to her faith. Lee is more subtle in his approach, but still strives to share the same values and beliefs with others. The most important thing in his parents’ lives was to put God first.
Lee and Lynda both enjoy hiking, biking, travelling, white water rafting and vacationing in Central Oregon at Black Butte Ranch. They especially love their time with their four children, six grandchildren and other family members. Lee has always been active enjoying fishing, snow and water skiing, playing basketball and reading, his favorites being J.R.R. Tolkien and science fiction novels.
Lynda encourages others to follow their passions and allow themselves to be open to a wide range of volunteer opportunities. She also encourages others to call Heidi Frederick for information and direction, as there are volunteer opportunities suitable for everyone. Lee believes volunteers “always get more than they give” and loves to share his positive experiences with others. Thank you, Lee and Lynda, for your incredible support!