Happy spring to each of you!
It has been a long two years, but slowly we are beginning to put the pandemic behind us. As we all approach (hopefully) the end, we know the importance of still embracing safe practices as we return to a more “normal” work environment. VOA Oregon will have a hybrid office model for the foreseeable future. Some employees will be working remotely while others will be working in person and providing virtual services. Until we know the virus is no longer a physical threat, this will be our practice. We want both our employees and all our children and families to be safe!
We are delighted to report that already in 2022, we have received excellent support for our programs from several key foundations including Spirit Mountain Community Fund, Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation, and U.S. Bank Foundation. I want to thank all our supporters, from foundations to individual donors, who continue to make a positive impact on the ever growing needs we see in our community. With you we can continue to help individuals in our community find hope and take a bold step towards a healthier life.
Kay Toran, President/CEO
I am pleased to share that with the legislative push, funds have been authorized for professionals working in behavioral health. This has allowed VOA Oregon to address compensation for our key staff who are providing outstanding substance abuse and mental health treatment. It is important to invest in those doing the work on the front lines to help individuals make positive changes in their lives. This past February our legislators took bold steps and provided this support.
This past April, VOA Oregon saw the end of the term of two of our outstanding board members. Steve Moceri finished his term as board chair. We also saw the end of excellent service by board member Greg Rickman, who served as Treasurer and Chair of our Finance Committee during his tenure. Both made extraordinary contributions to VOA Oregon and the larger community. We thank them for their talent, time, and treasure them as leaders in our community.
At our annual meeting we elected new officers, Bruce Warner as Board Chair and Andrea Cook as Board Secretary. We also elected a new board member, Alex Geschke. Congratulations and thank you to all three!
For more than 20 years VOA Oregon has celebrated service to others and partnerships with our neighbors through the annual DePreist Award for Excellence event. This year as we carry on that same tradition, we are thrilled to introduce a new event name that reflects our forward-movement and continued steadfast commitment to the residents of Oregon, VOA Oregon Community Changemakers. Be on the lookout for more information about the virtual event coming to your mailbox soon.
May I take this moment to thank each of you for on-going support of our organization. It is because of you we are able to achieve the highquality results for those we serve.