A Year in Review

James Bay Community Project

By John Vickers

It was Albert Schweitzer who said, "I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve." How fortunate we are here at the James Bay Community Project where so many volunteers so graciously serve for the betterment of so many!

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would first like to take this opportunity to congratulate the many volunteers who give so much of their time with us and those we serve. Their contributions add to the incredible level of activity we see each and every day at the Project. Special mention goes out to our volunteers from different Community Living agencies for also providing us with such tremendous support.

While facing increased demand for our services, throughout 2013/14 the James Bay Community Project has continued to forge ahead with many new and exciting opportunities. Many of these were made possible through the gracious assistance of our many partners, who continue to help us deliver the quality programs and services for which we are known.

One example that comes to mind is the support of the Vancouver Foundation for our Welcome Playgroup which assists parents and children who are newcomers to Canada feel more comfortable in their community.

Other notables from our busy year include improvements to our library through a closer relationship with the Greater Victoria Public Library, and the fact that we were chosen as the lead agency for the Victoria Better at Home program in partnership with Capital City Volunteers. The program assists seniors in enabling them to maintain their independence and remain in their own homes for longer periods.

All of these efforts serve to complement our vision of a healthy and inclusive community in James Bay and beyond. If you have some ideas about supports that the Project can provide, please let us know. We are a community based organization and we are founded on the input and support we get from community members, far and wide. 

I also take this opportunity to thank fellow volunteer board members, a number of whom were new to the board this year. They have given very graciously of their time, and together we also express gratitude for our executive director, Kaye Kennish, and the entire staff at the Project.

How fortunate we are to be surrounded by so many who care so much! We look forward to what lays on the path ahead and thank you again to all who do such great service for their community.

Sincerely,

John Vickers, Past Chair
Board of Directors
James Bay Community Project