From the Desk of Terry Davis....



2009 – A YEAR OF TRANSITION

As we entered 2009, it was our hope that this would be the year we made headway on the development of even newer programs and services. Instead, who would have thought that we would face an economic meltdown that so negatively affected our communities that it has been described as one of the worst economies since “the Great Depression”. In addition, we endured tragic events such as the serial killings in Cleveland, the military murders at Ft. Hood, and the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Here at The Wayside, we also experienced the deaths of several residents – Karen Doty, Debra Wnek, Michael Blackmon, James Andre, and Kevin Foley. Our prayers and sincere condolences go out to the families of all who have been affected by their tragic losses.

In spite of the above-mentioned tragedies, we were able to focus our attention on the day-to-day activities and needs of our residents. Over the past year, we, too, as an organization, was affected by the down turn in our economy as well as financial cuts. As a result, we made changes in our program that impacted our administration, but had no direct affect on the day-to-day services.

As any good business recognizes, when difficult times occur, difficult decisions must be made. We have followed this belief and have implemented program changes that allow us to maintain a healthy infrastructure, serve as good stewards of our resources, and position us in a positive light for the future. Our actions relate to and mirror something written by Carol Pearson who wrote that by “Focusing our attention – daily and hourly – not on what is wrong, but on what we love and value, will allow us to participate in the birth of a better future, ushered in by the choices we make each and every day.” For instance, even during this difficult period, we were able to open four new homes providing services to an additional sixteen individuals. We also forged a new relationship with “Our House”, a senior congregate living program in Westlake and we initiated a new Day Program providing supports and services to fifteen individuals at the Westlake facility.

Currently, we operate 45 homes in 27 communities and serve more than 300 children and adults. We have a transportation program with a fleet of more than 70 vehicles and we recently re-located our Car Donation Program to Brooklyn and developed a new dealership. Our operating budget in 2010 will exceed $16 million and we will employ nearly 400 individuals.

The question most asked is where do we go from here? As John Maxwell stated, “The most ability is responsibility. Nothing happens until someone steps forward and says You can count on me”. Our future will be driven by our commitment to those we serve, our ability to be creative, and the support we are able to generate from others. We will move forward in 2010 with great optimism, and an interest in doing whatever it takes to meet the needs of our consumers, staff and families.

Sincerely,


Terry Davis