This month we would like to recognize Michael Wren for his exemplary service to the YDI mission, his team, and youth in Yellowstone County. Michael goes above and beyond daily to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable youth.
Here is what leadership and Michael’s teammates had to say in recognition of him:
“Michael always seems to go above and beyond for all the children at YDI; the shoes were just one example. He keeps his eyes and ears open to opportunities for YDI to shine and for other charitable agencies to keep YDI in their hearts and heads. Each day he sends out an inspiring quote and a painting, which always reminds me of the good that just one individual can do. He is always friendly in the office and is a joy to talk to.” – Peggy Leinart-Murch, Associate Clinical Director
“Michael is very supportive of his team and is always looking to help out in any way that he can around the office. He has been able to get free shoes for all of our clients from the Scottish Rites and snow boots for the winter. He has grown professionally over the last year! Glad to have him on my team!” – Rick Watson, Billings Area Manager
“Michael is one of the most positive people that I know! I often tell him how he reminds me of my past supervisor/business owner Rich. Always full of positive things to say and looking at the positive side of things! I value Michael as a coworker and as a person. Michael inspires me and has recently reminded me of the person that I was when I first came to YDI. A positive person who wants to help and advocate for as many families in need as I possibly can to change the stigma of mental illness. While we all have our difficult days, Michael will not only pick himself up on those difficult days, he will pick up as many others as he can at the same time. Michael is selfless and puts others needs before his own, which is a thin line to walk, yet he walks it with skill. I appreciate Michael and like to get his view on things. He is never biased and has an open mind when it comes to all situations. He is a valuable member of the Billings Clinical Team and I am very happy to have the opportunity to work with him.” – Tamara Barnhart, Care Manager
“Michael is always willing to help problem solve and lend a helping hand.” – Laurel Lawrence, Care Manager
“In all aspects of his job, Michael goes above and beyond what he is asked to do. He is helpful, kind, generous, and uplifting to all those he is around.” -Verity Seeman, Care Manager
“Michael is an incredible source of knowledge and insight. He is always willing to extend a helping hand. I am grateful for his mentorship.” – Samantha Arave, Care Manager
“Michael Wren is an incredible coworker. He is one of the most positive, supportive, selfless, and hard-working people I have ever had the privilege to work alongside. He makes the Billings office a much better and brighter place to be! Thank you, Michael, for everything that you do and stand for. You are simply amazing!” – Colette Lemburg, Family Development Coordinator
“I have always enjoyed my interactions with Michael. When he was a Care Manager in Glendive, he would ask my thoughts on situations, and it really made me feel like I was welcome in that office. He cares about the families that he works with and makes every effort to do what is in their best interest. He is always thinking of ways to help the youth in YDI services. I appreciate his dedication to getting the kiddos in our services shoes and even boots this winter. He truly is an asset to YDI and the families that we serve.” – Angie Hildebrand, Associate Clinical Director
“What can I say… Michael is a fantastic individual. He is giving, inspiring, wonderful with his families, and great to work alongside. He encourages us all and always has something good to say about others.
He is the Billings Clinical Office’s personal “Buddy the Elf.” He does so many neat things for our families. He has gotten them shoes from his Scottish Rite organization and always finds funding for families struggling to pay their bills. He does all of these things without wanting anything in return. He even designed the Treatment Completion Challenge Coin.
Moreover, Michael makes us all laugh when we are down. He is always willing to lend a hand around the office. He inspires us to be thankful for what we have and not be upset about what we don’t. He inspires us to be better people.
He does so many things; it’s far too much to list. I, for one, am so very thankful that he came to our office and settled in. We are all so fortunate to have him. His “Holly Jolly” disposition is a breath of fresh air.
Congrats Michael! So very proud of you.”
– Misty Blakeman, Billings Administrative Support
“I was lucky enough to work with Michael when he first came on board and have seen him grow and spread his wings in his role with families. I could always count on Michael for follow-through. As a YCM, he was dynamite at not only helping youth with their mental health needs but also helping families with their day to day needs- whether that was finding funding for car repair, help with utility bills, childcare bills, food on the table, or SHOES on their feet!
GO SCOTTISH RITE!!! Families need their basic necessities met BEFORE they can work steps to better mental health. I appreciate his out of the box thinking and working towards solutions. Hats off, thank you for being on our team!!!!” – Doris Higbee, Intake Coordinator
“I have had the pleasure of working with Michael over the years. Michael is an “Old Soul” who appreciates the simple things in life. He is a true gentleman who has a genuine passion for YDI and the youth that we serve. Michel Wren, this quote is for you!
“Life is not a fairy tale. If you lose your shoe at midnight…you’re probably drunk!”
– Mike Schmidt, IT/ Systems Technician
“Michael is spectacular! He is an incredibly loyal, gentle-spirited human who gives with every ounce of his being. He loves this organization and is genuinely enthusiastic about his role as a care manager. I am so grateful he is a part of YDI!
Thank you for all you do, Michael! Your work does not go unnoticed.”
– Katie Gerten, Public Relations Specialist
“Michael is a pretty extraordinary provider. He will go above and beyond for his families- not only to meet the needs they have identified together but to support them in ways they didn’t know they needed! Additionally, his connection to the Scottish Rites Masonry has been remarkable. He continues to connect his families and fellow coworkers with services in our community. He is the Buzz Light Year of Youth Dynamics- going to infinity and beyond for those in need! It has been a pleasure getting to work with him!” – Samantha Eastwood, Therapist
Michael’s dedication, hard work, and positive attitude are apparent through the feedback he has received. Thank you, Michael, for everything you do. You clearly have an amazing presence at Youth Dynamics. Your dedication to our agency, our mission, and the children we serve is exceptional. We are so honored to have you as part of our YDI family.
