Starting on October 1, 2019, Kelly Bandy will become the Chair of Hoyleton’s Board of Directors. Kelly has been a member of the board for over 10 years, most recently serving as its Vice Chair.
Kelly and her husband, Eric, are long-time supporters of Hoyleton. Both are native to Southern Illinois and have a deep passion, and commitment, to youth and families throughout the region. They operate a family business, Bandy’s Pharmacy, inspiring health and wellness throughout three communities. Today, Bandy Pharmacy has locations in Centralia, Salem, Irvington and Mt. Vernon.
Hoyleton was first introduced to them through a business partnership; their pharmacy in Irvington, supplies Hoyleton’s nursing staff with the necessary prescriptions for the youth living at Hoyleton’s residential campus. Irvington is just a short drive away from there.
As the business relationship grew, Kelly and Eric’s fondness for Hoyleton’s work grew, as well.
“Hearing stories from foster parents or kids in the residential program really made an impact on me. Those stories really put things in perspective for my life. Kids are going through different trials that most, including me or our kids, don’t experience in everyday life. Thankfully, Hoyleton’s been there for youth and families to count on for almost 125 years,” says Kelly.
Eventually, Kelly joined the board of directors. Her motivation was to further her advocacy efforts for the youth in residential services with the goal of helping them create a quality of life she desired for her own children.
Kelly still has the same motivation and calling today, but her focus has broadened.
“Many don’t realize how much Hoyleton provides. Programs like Puentes de Esperanza that serves our Hispanic community members, pregnancy and parenting teen classes, an integrated living program, and foster care – the list goes on – are all critical to our region. Hoyleton plays a key role in delivering services and resources to many individuals and families.”
When Kelly assumes the chair position, she’ll focus on sustaining and improving all the best-in-class programs and services Hoyleton offers. She will explore ways to expand services to meet more needs, as well. In all, she’s encouraged by the many transformational outcomes she’s witnessed in her many years on the board, but she knows there are many more people to serve.
Kelly says, “When my term is complete in two years, Hoyleton will be beginning its next 125 years. It will continue to be financially strong, growing steadily, building communities and serving youth and families with care. “
Thank you, Kelly, for your dedication to Hoyleton’s work and to the over 3,000 youth and families Hoyleton serves every year.