It is with pleasure that I report on the activities of the Board this past year. I consider myself fortunate to be part of such a hard working dedicated group of people, who give freely of their skills to enrich the community of seniors in Greater Victoria.
One year ago, the financial picture was gloomy due to the economic downturn. However funding did become available to us. I can report to you that we are delighted to be here celebrating our thirtieth anniversary!
With the assistance of two skilled volunteers from Volunteer Victoria’s Real Net Program, we were able to regroup and move on. The Board has undertaken and is still actively involved in a comprehensive strategic plan. This has been happening while we continue to deliver our regular services, introduce a new updated Directory, add a new volunteer with special expertise in marketing, prepare and update a shortened version of our mission and vision statement, develop job descriptions for Board members, plan to have yearlong activities to celebrate our thirtieth year and celebrate more anniversaries!
Funding to non-profit organizations, such as Seniors Serving Seniors, has been and continues to be very uncertain. As a Board we have truly learned that this is the scenario we can expect for the foreseeable future. We are therefore extremely grateful to the organizations who have entrusted us with funds to continue to deliver our programs and we strive to spend these precious dollars to the best of our ability.
In all the ups and downs of the past year, we have had the steady hand of Jane Sheaff, our Executive Director, doing all the many tasks of her position quietly and efficiently, available to, and supportive of, all the volunteers and the Board. Jane, thank you, we know the many hours that you work and honour your commitment to the organization.
Finally and most importantly, I extend a hearty vote of thanks to all of our volunteers. You are the real heroes in this organization and I appreciate that each of you shares your time and talents unsparingly. Today we can also reflect on all the many volunteers who have over thirty years given of their talents.
We will not rest on our laurels and will continue to meet the challenges of a changing society. Please join us as we move ahead. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” Eleanor Roosevelt, 1884-1962.
