Marcia Gay Harden
Actor; supporter of the Red Cross and the YMCA
Mother of Eulala, 8, Hudson, 3, and Julitta, 3
"After Hurricane Katrina, I flew to Houston on my own to go to the Astrodome, because I wanted to set up a reading center for the children. While I was there, I noticed two organizations that were incredible in their ability to help people quickly: the YMCA and the Red Cross. When I came back, I thought, I have to be a part of these two organizations that can 'get 'er done.' Working with the children at the YMCA, I am grateful to see how they take the opportunity given to them and turn it into artistic brilliance, political acumen, and worthy citizenship. Working hand in hand with the Red Cross, I see families lifted from their present tragedies and given hope for the future. I started working with charities before I had children, but now there's more resonance. Motherhood enhances my life, and I think that makes me better at whatever job I do. I know it's the biggest cliché in the world, but kids are the ones we have to help. They're the future."
