As I started to write this, the question occurred to me: how many organizations like ours make it to age 50? I don’t have a precise answer but my best guess is: not many. There are many reasons for this but two stand out: continued dedication to the population served and disciplined execution.
Windrush has a long and honored legacy of doing a great job in both categories. Our core services remain very similar to the original concept yet the populations served and the needs addressed are often remarkably different. Our strategy has evolved as the organization has grown, the market changed and new opportunities open. This is the way it should be. Disciplined execution means an outstanding safety record, high-quality services and an efficient operation. Windrush should be proud of its record in each of these areas.
We are the beneficiaries of a legacy that many helped shape over five decades:
Marj Kittredge’s vision and leadership in good times and bad.
Mandy Hogan’s ability to “take the reins” after Marj’s retirement allowed Windrush to build an outstanding staff and programs.
Incredible volunteers who are extremely dedicated to Windrush and our clients.
Directors, advisors, vendors and other partners who have made and continue to make a terrific difference.
A critical part of this legacy is you, our supporters, year in and year out. Without you I’m not sure that we would still be in business and, if we were, our services would be quite limited.
I have no doubt that the next 50 years will be as exciting and as successful as our first 50 years. We will continue our preeminent role as the leader in our field and a willing partner ready to share whatever we can with organizations engaged in a similar mission.
As we look to a future that is both exciting and challenging, it is appropriate to step back and appreciate the special achievement of being age 50. We want this year to be a year of celebration, re-engagement and refreshment to set the foundation for the next 50 years as we continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Thank You!
Bob Gore