The time was different, the roads were different, and the cars were different. Driving across the United States was an adventure years ago. And it still is today.
Marie Selby was the first woman to cross the country by automobile, and she did it with Bill by her side in their first year of marriage.
The couple was excited by the first transcontinental automobile race between Seattle and New York City. They later made a decision to do it themselves and loaded their touring car with spare parts and camping equipment. The Selbys completed the trip in six fewer days than the winning car in the race. We can feel the wind in our hair as we envision the adventure!
Their journeys also included incredible giving, and the thoughtful planning of Bill and Marie continues to guide the Foundation’s work today–68 years after the foundation was formed.
Their legacy has enabled countless people to make gains through nonprofit programs that are possible because of capital investments such as buildings, vehicles, technology, software and learning tools. It has conserved native land, allowed local technical colleges and universities to invest in more graduations. Their legacy has given young people new possibilities for their lives through our esteemed Selby Scholarship Program with renewable scholarships and one on one support.
November is a month of thanksgiving.
We know you share our gratitude for amazing people like the Selbys. We thank our region’s nonprofits that do the hard work of changing lives. We appreciate those who support students along the way and the young people who are making their mark in the world.
The adventure of doing good is both receiving and paying it forward. Times change, but this connection to each other remains the same.
May your month be full of gratitude!