The promise of summer is visible everywhere in our beautiful province, and I hope our members will take time to enjoy the warmer weather with family and friends. I realize that most of you will also continue your volunteer auxiliary duties. We are all proud and grateful for your dedication!
The April BCAHA Annual General Meeting and Leadership Forum in Penticton was well attended and the format, although shorter in duration, offered a full complement of excellent speakers who both motivated and informed. In the words of one attendee, “With all the resources and skills provided, I feel more excited and determined to help grow, strengthen and lead my auxiliary.”
The Board of Directors acknowledges the excellent organizational skills and hard work of the Conference Chair, Vicky Forest, who was responsible for the implementation of this most successful event. Unfortunately, Vicky, who also held the office of the BCAHA Vice President, has had to step down due to unforeseen health concerns. Vicky was a great asset at the board table, to our members, and to our association as a whole. On behalf of the BCAHA membership, I offer sincere thanks to Vicky and good wishes for the future.
The planning for the 2017 provincial conference to be held next April 22 – 25 in Kamloops is well underway. I would encourage members who have suggestions regarding workshop topics or specific speakers to contact me at: gro.xuaerachtlaehcb@tnediserp
The popular photo contest will be back at the April conference, so keep your cameras handy now and during the next few months and take advantage of every photo opportunity. Take photos of your members interacting with others and having fun! The Director of Communications, Tim Sader, would also appreciate photos for the BCAHA website and for the Auxiliary Action. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words!
Many thanks to those of you who send me copies of your Auxiliary newsletters, which I really enjoy reading. It is always a great learning experience for me! Please continue to include those photos that illustrate your good works, and perhaps think about including a short heart-warming article showing how a purchased piece of medical equipment has impacted the life of one human being.
In closing, I would like to acknowledge the support and expertise shared with our Board, and in particular with me as President, by our Executive Director, Helen Carkner during the three years of her contract with BCAHA.
Until next time, I trust you will all enjoy a safe and happy summer.
Warmly,
Lynda Avis, President, British Columbia Association of Healthcare Auxiliaries