Community Options Annual Report 2013 | Page 5

5 | ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING REPORT We continue to look for grants and opportunities that will lead to the completion of an innovative new playground at Edmonton Northwest Child Care Centre. We were thrilled to be chosen by the Edmonton Hash House Harriers as their charity of choice in 2011. They raised over $30000 which has been put away in a fund that we are building up in order to create a unique playground at the child care centre. The playground project is inspired by input received from parents, children and program staff. We envision of the outdoor environment as a place where children can be inspired by nature and enhance their physical well being. We are extremely proud to have Marjorie Cooper nominated in the volunteer category, of the annual YWCA awards: Woman of the Year. The finalists will be announced on May 30, 2013.Marjorie was also a finalist in the Canadian Child Care Federation Professional Awards of Excellence in Early Childhood. Volunteers are welcomed and valued both in setting the direction of the organization and through community events and programs. I would really like to thank the Board members and event volunteers who are have supported us this year, in fundraising endeavours, program activities and community support events, such as clothing exchange, Make Tax Time Pay and Festive Meal. New funding sources have been and continue to be developed, with a view toward diversifying our resource base. We are hoping to move toward a more diverse funding for the agency’s programs and services. At the end of our Annual Report, we have included a list of the donors and funders of Community Options activities. Moving into our thirty-sixth year, in 2013 we reflect on our strong foundation and look forward to a future based on the positive visioning of our Board of Directors. Thanks to the dedication and talent of our personnel, I am able to look back with pride at the achievements of the Society over the 5 years I have been here. I go forward with hope and enthusiasm to implementing our vision for the coming years. The accomplishments and distinction of Community Options are largely due to passion for the work and a commitment to excellence. It has been my privilege to work with such forward-thinking, hardworking, innovative professionals, and I thank them for their perseverance and their support. Margaret Golberg, Executive Director The accomplishments and distinction of Community Options are alrgely due to passion for the work and a commitment to excellence.