18 South bids a fond farewell to Director, Alia

18 South Youth Ministries is bidding a fond farewell to Director, Alia Pillsbury, who will be stepping down from her position on May 7, 2021 after serving on staff for 3 years. 

Alia came on staff in May of 2018 as a full-time Ministry Coordinator and became the Director in 2019. She is now stepping down to pursue new career opportunities. 

“I have absolutely loved my time at 18 South! I made some of the best friends and met many incredible (crazy) teenagers over the last three years. 

As I reflect on my time, I have realized the teens at 18 South taught me many things throughout the last few years — 
They taught me to be myself in all seasons of life and to not take things too seriously: food fights can always be cleaned up and you sleep the weekend after youth retreats “we don’t sleep during”. 
Every Thursday and Friday night at the center reminded me to be fully present with the people around me.
I learned too many Tik Tok dances and played enough games of Uno to last my lifetime..
I learned that some of the most selfless volunteers I have ever met reside in York, Pennsylvania (and some are moving to warmer places to impact new communities… I love and will miss you!!) From these same people I learned to ask questions and really listen to the answers. 18 South volunteers do this exceptionally well. 

I believe we can all benefit from a little time at 18 South Youth Center, as I know I have.

Thank you to everyone who encouraged, donated, volunteered, and invested time throughout my years at 18 South! 
Chris could not be a better fit to move into the position of Program Director and continue carrying out the vision and mission of the organization.”

Alia graduated in 2019 with a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. She loves spending time with her family, getting outside, and plans to continue volunteering at 18 South in the future.