On a recent family visit up north for the holiday season, I found myself in a favorite store of mine on New Year's Eve. On that day, the owner was having a "Let's Give 2009 the Boot" party. I thought that this was interesting, although obvious that she was feeling negative effects from the local economy.  

This caused me to think - do I want to forget about this past year? Certainly it was one of the most challenging times for our community and for so many families.... but did those challenges bring out some new found strengths and opportunities for many of us? Perhaps we were forced to look at setting a stricter household budget or returning to school to develop a new skill as a response to our local job market. What about volunteering? With the needs of many, there was a great push among companies and the community to do what can be done to help local agencies struggling to respond to an increased demand for services. For others, volunteering meant a reason to get the energy to leave the house and perhaps develop new opportunities.

As we all face the new year with some uncertainties, anticipation and a sense of relief, let's not forget our accomplishments of this past year and the true meaning of community.

Sincerely,

Maureen Quinlan, President