March 28, 2024
Annapolis, US 50 F

Anstett to step down as Executive Director of Giving Back, Linda’s Legacy

STeve AnstettSteve Anstett recently announced he would step down as executive director of the local charity, Giving Back, Linda’s Legacy (GBLL), after more than a decade at the helm of the all-volunteer organization. He will remain a consultant through the 2014 Holiday Homeless Drive, GBLL’s signature event.

Anstett first volunteered for GBLL in 2001, while it was being run by founder Linda Greenberg, and was called simply Giving Back. Answering an email plea for help, Steve was drawn to the mission, whose goal is to make the holidays a little brighter for homeless and disadvantaged persons in the community. Anstett assumed the role of director in 2003, and since then he has exponentially grown the size of the mission, in scope, volume, volunteers and donations.

During the 2013 Holiday Homeless Drive, 26 shelters were served in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore and Washington, DC. The charity also served about 500 homeless men and women living on the streets, with food and life-saving essentials. During the same time period, 2,500 filled backpacks were also distributed.

Anstett has left an indelible mark on the organization with his limitless energy, creative ideas and positive spirit. He initiated the backpack program, which allows donors to purchase backpacks filled with warm clothes for only $25. He also recruited youth into the organization, which previously consisted of mostly adult volunteers. “We changed the heart of the organization to be made up primarily of high school and college kids and their families,” he explained.

During his tenure, Anstett strove to ensure meaningful experiences at each shelter during the Christmas Eve deliveries. When possible, fellowship was shared through food, testimonies from shelter residents, sing-a-longs and meaningful exchanges. “Those important events at the shelters are significant – they give volunteers an educational and inspirational experience they wouldn’t ordinarily have,” he pointed out.

Anstett’s wife, Sue, and their sons Roby and Zack, have been supportive, and have volunteered with GBLL many years. Sue acknowledged, “He loved and enjoyed GBLL – he’s instilled in our kids the greatness of leadership and helping others.”

Anstett confessed he will miss GBLL, but is excited for what his future will bring, stating, “I feel a calling to move onward to different and exciting new ventures, and look forward to growing and making my mark on the world in new ways,” adding, “I pray for continued success for the mission!”

In addition to his full-time job at American Moulding, Anstett is a founding member and current president of the Baltimore Community Tool Bank, and active youth leader at Woods Presbyterian Church in Severna Park. He is also involved in teen suicide prevention efforts. In the past he has been a Green Hornets coach and Baseball League director, VP of the Severna Park High School Falcons Athletic Boosters, president of SPAN (Serving People Across Neighborhoods), president of Severna Park Middle School PTO, and has held numerous other leadership roles.

Anstett recently received the Lifetime Mentor award from the Volunteer Center for Anne Arundel County for his outstanding work with local youth.

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