What's New | Calendar of Events
Volunteers saluted as “Lifeblood of organization”
An organization such as Community Care would not be able to provide the services and support that it does without the invaluable contributions made by so many volunteers throughout each and every year.
“You truly are the lifeblood of our organization,” Community Care board of directors co-chair Val Harris told the more than 200 people assembled at the Dunsford Community Centre in April for the agency’s annual salute to its volunteers.
“Not only are you an important component of the Community Care team, but due to the unique nature of our organization’s structure and our community’s demographics and geography, you are often the face of Community Care for the public who may not deal directly with our administrative staff,” Val said in her tribute. Her comments were echoed by Community Care executive director Valmay Barkey, and master of ceremonies Glenn Wilcox, who is also a member of the board of directors.
The theme of the 2008 Volunteer Appreciation Week in Canada was “From Compassion to Action.” Glenn explained that as a relatively new member of the agency’s board, he has quickly come to appreciate how so many of our organization’s volunteers possess a special element of care and willingness to help that indeed moves them from a state of compassion to a willingness to “roll up your sleeves and help out in whatever way it is needed.”
Those in attendance were treated to new agency lapel pins for people who have contributed 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of service. Any volunteers who are eligible for such a pin can get theirs by contacting their local office, or by calling Community Care volunteer co-ordinator Leighanne Quibell at 324-7323, ex. 239.
“We hope that our volunteers wear the pins with pride, and that if anyone asks them about the pin, that they tell others about our agency,” Leighanne said.
Val Harris urged any and all volunteers to avoid ever underestimating their value to the organization.
“Whether you are a volunteer drive who helps enhance lives
by getting local residents to where they need to go, whether you
bring quality of life by delivering Meals on Wheels, whether you
assist by answering the phone and greeting the public’s inquiries
in one of our offices, or whether you help out at our various fundraising
events, please know how appreciative everyone at Community Care
is of your contributions to the agency. We couldn’t do it
without you!”
Community Health Centre
The Community Health Centre (CHC) for the City of Kawartha Lakes
continues to move forward towards becoming a reality.
The first phase in the development process was the Community Engagement
Phase, a key opportunity to engage CKL residents regarding their
perceptions of priority services which should be available at a
community health centre – both primary care and health promotion.
The thoughts of both knowledgeable providers and those in need
of care regarding gaps in services or opportunities to expand services
combine to provide a picture of potential service delivery. Typically,
consultants are hired to assist in facilitating the Community Engagement
Phase, since they bring a neutrality and objectivity to the gathering
of the information.
The board of directors for Community Care contracted with the
Osborne Group to conduct the Community Engagement Phase. The decision
to work with Osborne was based on the firm’s previous involvement
in this community - with the Fenelon Falls Family Health Team and
the Omemee Medical Centre. In addition, a local steering committee
was formed to work with the consultants and the board of Community
Care.
In the spring, Osborne representatives held several public meetings
and focus group sessions with representatives of local service
providers, in order to gather input and opinions about the current
state of health in the community, and to identify future needs
and concerns. Results of the public engagement phase were summarized
and presented in a Draft Report in May. The draft report recommends
continued involvement of Community Care as the steward of the funding
for continued development of the CHC for the City.
For further information about the Community Health Centre, contact
Community Care executive director Valmay Barkey at 324-7323, ext.
232 (vbarkey@community-care.on.ca)
Foundation Update
The newest organizational entity of Community Care has launched,
as the agency’s foundation board is up and running.
The Community Care Foundation (Kawartha Lakes) received incorporation
late in 2006, and application for charitable status has been made.
While we await the official charitable stamp of approval from the
province, the foundation has put some things in motion. A preliminary
board of directors has been established, and in early 2008, the
Foundation will begin short- and long-term planning for overseeing
and managing the agency’s financial holdings, as well as
consideration and planning of a future capital fundraising campaign,
perhaps in support of a new housing project.
Initial board members of the Foundation include: Pat Jensen, also a member
of the Community Care board of directors; Denise Scully of Ross Memorial Hospital;
Lola Hornibrook of Fenelon Falls; and Bill Charlton of Investors Group in Lindsay.
Staff support comes from executive director Valmay Barkey, finance manager
Tandy McHugh and director of development Mike Puffer.
Upcoming Events
Festival of Fashion Returns
The 6th annual Community Care fundraising fashion show in support of the agency and the local United Way returns on Thursday, Nov. 6. The event will be held at the Victoria Park Armoury in Lindsay and tickets are now on sale at the Scotiabank branch in Lindsay (165 Kent St. W.). Fashions from Brittany ‘N Bros, Cathy Allen Ladies Wear, Hamilton Creek, the Lingerie Loft and Nisbett’s Men’s Shop. Tickets: $20. Doors open at 6 p.m., fashion show starts at 7 p.m.
