Meet Volunteer: Uncle Lloyd

There are so many reasons to love spending time at The Center—but one of the best is the people you meet and the stories they share. Someone with great stories is Lloyd Hardesty, a beloved part of our community, known to many of us as “Uncle Lloyd.”

Lloyd joined us as a volunteer last fall and has contributed in many ways—serving meals in Community Dining, helping with special events like Jazz Night and Rainbow Bingo and representing The Center at West Seattle events. He also serves on our Board of Directors and is a member of the board’s Fundraising Committee.

He also brings creativity to The Center through his popular fabric painting workshop that showcases his artistic talent and inspires others to make art.

Originally from a small farming town in southeastern Idaho called Filer, Lloyd spent 52 years in Colorado Springs before moving to West Seattle. His career in education was impressive—he worked as a teacher, administrator, University Professor and Executive Director of the Colorado Council of the International Literacy Association.

When asked to share something surprising about himself, Lloyd, in true storytelling style said, “I’m a survivor!” At just six years old, he was lost in the mountains for 18 hours. He’s also a cancer survivor and continues to live with strength and resilience.

We’re so grateful for Lloyd’s service, spirit and ever-positive attitude. If you’ve met him, you know—he’s always ready to help, always with a smile.