A Railroad Career Leads to a Legacy of Giving

Linda HurtLinda Hurt began her journey in philanthropy through her career at BNSF Railway Company, where she devoted 33 years of her life and served as the Vice President of Investor Relations before her retirement. BNSF works closely with national and local social service organizations and Linda was actively involved in all things related to bettering her community.

One of her corporate giving meetings was hosted at Center for Transforming Lives. During that meeting, the Executive Director of the Center for Transforming Lives shared the Center's mission, and Linda knew immediately that she wanted to be involved.

Linda was in awe when she learned about Center for Transforming Lives's housing program dedicated to young women. At the time, Linda's daughter was 18-years-old and she couldn't imagine her being financially, emotionally, or even physically on her own at that age. Most 18-year-olds still get some financial and emotional support from home and have a sense of belonging somewhere. These women didn't have that family support or sense of connection.

It was under the roof of Center for Transforming Lives's 100-year-old building that Linda found her lifetime calling as a dedicated supporter of women and children in her community.

Since her introduction to Center for Transforming Lives's impact on countless families in Tarrant County, Linda has served Center for Transforming Lives in almost every way possible! She first participated in the Finance Committee and was asked to join the board where she served for several years, including two years as president. She's cultivated her friends, family, and colleagues to donate time and effort to Center for Transforming Lives.

Linda also serves as a Financial Coach for the Economic Mobility program. As a coach, she has the opportunity to work directly with the clients, which is the most cherished part of her work with Center for Transforming Lives. Former clients often stay in touch and they continue to discuss financial topics together. Linda receives so much fulfillment from women she's worked with when they've succeeded in their goals and she sees their self-confidence skyrocket.

Now, Linda has served Center for Transforming Lives for almost 20 years. When asked about her experience, Linda said,

"The organization and its leaders have their fingers on the pulse of families who are experiencing poverty and homelessness in our community, and for over 100 years, they've enhanced and expanded programming that works for women and their children. Anyone who spends time with this organization will experience the evidence of Center for Transforming Lives's impact."

Nearly 5 years ago, Linda and her husband, Bill, took the next step by committing to a Transforming Lives Legacy Gift. Adding a gift to Center for Transforming Lives in their will was a much easier process than initially thought. After speaking with their attorney, they saw this as the perfect opportunity to continue making a difference in the families' lives and take comfort in knowing their passion for transforming lives will live on for generations to come.

To learn more about Legacy Giving and how you can make an impact in the lives of women and children in our community, please visit plannedgiving.transforminglives.org.