Small is big! And Ancoura is proving it. Though a small organization, we continue to make a big difference in the lives of the persons we support and to adapt to big economic changes.
We began this year on a positive note with generous donations that enabled us to staff two new positions: a Resident Support Manager and a part time Resident Support Worker. A warm welcome to Virginia Hodgson and Barbara Zerter! We also filled a resident vacancy and extend best wishes to newcomer Mickey, who moved into Chester House. And to our donors, our deepest gratitude!
In our pursuit of excellence, Ancoura conducted a thorough review of its corporate responsibilities, including governance structure, policies and information management. Into the new fiscal year, changes to financial management systems and practices have already yielded significant savings.
In our quest for sustainability, we actively engaged with city councillors and officials, cultivated community partners, and applied to funding bodies. Results of these efforts are increasingly felt, and the Board and staff continue to raise awareness of the deep and positive impact that Ancoura has on the broader community.
Ancoura residents have demonstrated resilience and a strong spirit of collaboration, responding with courage to our new circumstances and making significant efforts to look out for one another. Several residents actively participated in effecting change by opening their homes and sharing their stories, volunteering their technical and artistic skills and serving on the Board. As one resident put it, “We are Team Ancoura.”
Strong efforts to revamp our volunteer training are ongoing. In 2024, we piloted a mental health training program that is now required for everyone working with Ancoura. Its development drew on focus groups with residents and volunteers, and participants included Board members, staff and visiting volunteers. Feedback was excellent! We plan to hold workshops each spring and fall, along with periodic continuing education seminars.
We also addressed the needs of residents who are now or soon will be seniors, and our focus on “aging in place” has been carried forward into 2025. Aging in place involves the practical, emotional, and financial ability to continue living independently, at home, with services and supports. We continue our search for funds to develop appropriate programs, like our community kitchen and nutrition program, to help residents meet the challenges of aging and live in their homes for as long as they wish.
With the solid foundation of a strong board and new employees, recruitment of new volunteers, increased support and activities for residents—all powered by devotion to our mission and bolstered by our broader community of supporters— Ancoura looks to a stronger, brighter future.
We ask that you keep Ancoura in mind as you plan your charitable donations this year and consider options such as monthly pledges, donations of securities and bequests to help secure our future. Or perhaps you would like to volunteer! On our website you can find details regarding how you can help or contact us at 613-233-8130.
We couldn’t have done it without you!
Ann Carmichael
President
