“In 1982, I was serving in Korea when my mom became worried when she hadn’t heard from me. She contacted the Red Cross who was able to verify through my commanding officer that I was okay.
My boss came to me and said, ‘When was the last time you called your mother?’
Looking back, it’s a funny story. However, it wasn’t funny to my mom who was worried about her oldest child who was on the other side of the world. I feel great comfort that the Red Cross is there for families when they need to connect – it’s a big deal for military parents to have that service.
During that time in my 20’s, I learned the lesson of calling my mother. If I could go back and give myself another piece of advice, it would be that it’s so important to be a part of a community. Outside of work or family, it’s important to give back. Never stop volunteering because you don’t think you have time. Any amount of quality time is appreciated by organizations who need it.”
Toni Holland learned many important lessons during her years of military service in the U.S. Navy. Now, she’s a member of the Tiffany Circle, a community of women committed to advancing our mission through gifts of time, talent and treasure.
