When a Fisher Cat Crosses Your Path...

By Lindsay Boddy,

TTC Executive Director

Last week, something unusual happened to me, not once, but twice and it happened two days in a row. A fisher cat crossed my path. One day it happened walking home from the bus stop and the next day while I was driving to work. Seeing one once is rare enough, but two days in a row? Naturally, I thought: "This can't be good." Honestly, it felt way more ominous than a black cat crossing my path.

So I did what most of us would do.... I panicked, and then I looked it up.

Interestingly, fisher cats are actually seen as symbols of resourcefulness, adaptability, and resilience. They’re creatures who thrive in all kinds of environments. Once I read that, it felt less like a warning and more like a sign of strength and perseverance for the year ahead. So brace yourself because I’m about to compare TTC to fisher cats and it turns out, we’ve got more in common than you’d think. So much so I think it’s time to print some mascot t-shirts!

So brace yourself because I’m about to compare TTC to fisher cats and it turns out, we’ve got more in common than you’d think.

Resourceful: Fisher cats are known for finding creative ways to thrive, no matter their environment. TTC offers a wide variety of programs, youth activities, parent education, prevention initiatives, and community partnerships, so families can find something that works best for them at whatever stage of their life.

Adaptable: Fisher cats survive by adjusting to changing conditions. Similarly, TTC responds to the evolving needs of youth and families, whether that means addressing mental health, internet safety, or substance use prevention.

Resilience: For decades, TTC has remained a trusted resource, weathering leadership transitions and changes in community needs, yet always staying true to its mission. 

Presence: You might not see a fisher cat every day, but you know it’s part of the Tri-town landscape. TTC is woven into the fabric of our community, showing up in schools, at town events, in coalitions, and wherever families need us most. Just this past week we had an amazing day at the Boxford Apple Festival. Quite frankly it was fall perfection! It was so special connecting with community members alongside our dedicated Board and staff. We also had the opportunity to attend elementary, middle, and high school school open houses to share information about our fall programming and hear directly from families. Our Coalition held it's first meeting of the school year, where Maureen Buzby shared powerful insights on creating a Nicotine-Free Generation (read more in our Coalition Corner!). 

So, if fisher cats really do represent resourcefulness, adaptability, resilience, and presence, I’m taking their appearance in my paths as a good sign. This year is off to a strong start, and I’m excited for the growth, connections, and opportunities ahead for our community.