In any organization over time, a level of satisfaction sets in that validates complacency. We must re-commit ourselves daily to the tasks that lie ahead because the people who depend on us to fight with them and for them will know no rest until the time comes when they can live in dignity and acceptance in their community. To do this will require resources, patience, understanding, compassion and a commitment to change and evolution. Just because it has always been done that way does not mean that there is no room for improvement and growth. As your President, I am proud to represent your interests and to carry the message forward that OACL has a deep and abiding concern for the welfare of people for whom we advocate.
People demand that they be given the opportunity to be all that they can be.
We must now turn our attention to new priorities that have been articulated in our recent strategic planning sessions. These will require validation, support and participation. Giant leap forward Leadership and initiative shown by the Provincial Executive Directors Coordinating Committee has led to the development and implementation of an OACL Communications Strategy, a giant leap forward in expanding our capacity to communicate as a unified group, with clear messages based on specific goals and objectives. I thank you all for your dedication and hard work. I thank all Associations for Community Living who voluntarily agreed to support this group with much needed resources.