In a community that sparkles with outstanding attributes, amenities and personalities, there are still those hidden gems deeply embedded at our foundation that give The Woodlands its unique inner glow. From George Lindahl’s unwavering commitment to those in need to Linda Nelson’s spirit of compassion and care, they inspire a greater sense of purpose. Both spring from roots grounded in hard work, empathy and a focus on helping others. Individually, they quietly change lives around them for the better. Together, they are treasured friends.
With a father who at 92 is still president of his Lions Club, Linda Nelson understands the meaning of service. She has given her time and energy as Chairman of The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Montgomery County Chairman, a Precinct Chair for ten years, to the school district, Lone Star College, and a list of organizations focused on community betterment. Her heart, though, is with Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center.
“Canopy is like a warm blanket the minute you walk in,” she said of the facility located on the campus of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center which provides support and connection without charge for cancer survivors and their caregivers. “The moment you get that diagnosis, you become a cancer survivor, but cancer is hard. This is a place to find community, resources, rest, or even just a good cup of coffee.”
With a comprehensive offering of services to meet the survivor and caregivers wherever they are on the journey, Canopy is a strong reflection of Linda: confident, reassuring, bright and welcoming.
“Linda has two outstanding traits,” according to long-time friend George Lindahl. “A big, caring heart and the strong desire to help those in need with her leadership skills.” Lindahl was a strong supporter of Linda pursuing a seat on the Board of The Woodlands Township last November. “She won 70 percent of the vote because of how she truly cares about our community.”
Living and working here for 30 years, Linda still believes nothing is better. “I feel so lucky to come into this culture, for an opportunity to be impactful here,” she said. “And when I look at who I’m working and serving with, I’m humbled.”
If she’s serving up racquetball, however, humbled quickly becomes competitive. At 5:30 am George Lindahl is her opponent on the court. Whoever won last is considered the champ, and he admits, it’s usually her.
“He’s so much fun,” Linda said. “But you always want to do the right thing when you’re around George because of his ethics, his compassion, his love for the underserved. He does so much that no one sees.”
To find George, simply look for the least, the last, the lost, the lonely, and those looked over. The former President/CEO of Union Pacific Resources and former Vice Chair/Director of Anadarko Petroleum dedicates his time to lifting up the lowest. In remote outposts in Honduras four times every year, he works beside fellow congregants from The Woodlands Methodist Church to build safe homes, bring hope and faith. Goodwill Industries of Houston thrives now because of his business insight and financial generosity. His philanthropies include Interfaith of The Woodlands, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and a long list of others. But his passion is Angel Reach.
A faith-based organization, Angel Reach helps young people from age 16 to 24 overcome obstacles caused by broken families and a broken system to realize their greatest potential. Children aging out of foster care and kinship homes are at extreme risk for homelessness, substance abuse, life-long poverty, and early death. Angel Reach offers hope for a better future.
“We provide housing, counseling, job training, food, and just basic life skills,” George explained. “It can be hard work, though. They have to get their GED and stay clean and sober. But we have some great success stories, and that’s what it’s about.”
A personally involved mentor at Angel Reach, George leads by example, and as a geologist, he offers rock-solid advice: “You don’t need money or to write checks to have an impact. Volunteer.”