 |
From the Desk of The Director |
As I reflect on the past year, FLS has seen a few changes and experienced many challenges. Marilyn Holt, the Center’s executive director for the past three years, officially resigned in August. She is meeting with people in Indiana, Michigan and Florida in an effort to open new FLS centers. She truly is an amazing woman and champion for the Learning to Live, Learning to Love program.
I began as director on August 29, 2006 and hit the ground running. The first week of September, FLS hosted about 50 representatives of non-profit organizations from the central and southern regions of Illinois. The Faith-based and Community Leader’s Workshop was organized by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Then, there was preparation for the 6th Annual “Evening of Celebration and Vision” banquet and silent auction. Highlights and pictures are on the following pages.
On October 16, eight golfers made donations to play in the annual Stone Creek Golf “Charitee.” Tom Richardson, Robert Paoni, Rick Rusk, Ben Louis, Mike and Jean Smith, Chuck Curtiss and I braved the elements of chilling wind and continuous rainfall, raising $711 for FLS. I am most grateful to those who participated and it says a lot about just how far some are willing to go to play golf! Thanks to all of you. I look forward to next year!
The one thing that has touched me most since I began in August is seeing the love, dedication and loyalty of the staff, facilitators and volunteers of this Center. I am the only full time employee and there are three part-time employees. The Center is open a minimum of 52 hours each week. I am amazed at the willingness and enthusiasm of others to assure the Center remains open and runs smoothly. I am in awe of those who give so much of themselves so we can continue to meet the needs of others.
I wish to personally thank the following volunteers for their service this past year: Jan Rusk, Sandy Barnes; Spring Pirtle; Carol Schaede; Bernie Clark; Joyce Livingstone; and Leonard Bushue. Each has been a blessing.
The work we do here is extremely important to the individuals and families of the community and extremely rewarding for us. Since 1989, we have witnessed change in many lives. The Center is challenged financially, and the Board of Directors and I are dedicated to tackling the challenges. In the next few months we will be examining our options and planning the future of Family Life Skills Learning Center here in Champaign. Please keep the Center in prayer as we embark on new beginnings.
In closing, I look forward to seeing what lies ahead. We hope to bring new programs and services to meet the needs of the community. As this year comes to a close, my prayer is that all of you enjoy abundance and prosperity in the new year.
Blessings to all.
Connie Glazik-Pierce
Executive Director
|
