Never a dull moment — always something to learn — caring evident in so many ways! This combination is at the heart of WCSC’s strength as we build our future. I could not possibly do this job without commitment and energy of the Board, staff, & key volunteers. Gratitude to them for their support.
I want to give special recognition to Kathleen Byrnes, who has been steady, able, adaptable, and positive over several months of being short-staffed. Last newsletter, I told you of the renewed focus on volunteers and community outreach with the creation of a new role for Kathleen Byrnes. “KB” will soon be able to fully focus on these important areas, now that we have a new team member.
I am happy to announce that Judi Hoffman has joined us as our program assistant. Having worked in training and human resources, she has a clear desire to work in human services, and has completed a Certificate Program in Social & Human Services. She brings not only skills, but a “can-do” attitude, which makes her a great addition to our team. Say hi and welcome her!
On a “big picture” note — as 2006 winds down, I’m preparing us for 2007. Most importantly, I am working with the Board to create a solid funding and budget plan that will allow us greater security about our future. WCSC has a wonderful history to build on, but small stand-alone non-profits such as the Center face big challenges. I’m by nature optimistic and have ideas about how to ensure our success….some of which will mean new ways of doing things, new community relationships, and even new programming. As changes emerge, I will do my best to explain both “what” & “why”, but please let me know your questions and concerns along the way. In advance, thanks for your patience and your support of the Center.
Happy Thanksgiving—Good Cheer & Good Health! Kathleen C.
Volunteer Update
Some of the work I’m most proud of is the work I’ve done as a volunteer. Whether teaching in the Peace Corps or building trails on the Mountains to Sound Greenway, I felt a sense of purpose and connectedness I couldn’t find anywhere else. That’s why I’m so happy that my mission as volunteer/outreach coordinator is to not only ensure that each of our volunteers has the tools needed to do their job, but also help each person feel that same sense of satisfaction. If you’re currently a volunteer, think about what I can do to make your experience more rewarding. Maybe there is something you would like to try, but haven’t yet. If you’re not currently a volunteer, think about how you might want to contribute… and then tell me!
HELPING HANDS NEEDED......CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Your volunteering keeps the Center going - very literally!
Current opportunities include:
* -Holiday Bazaar Bakers, Crafters
* -Data Entry Assistance
* -Pancake Breakfast Team
* -Front Desk Receptionist
* -Web-site Assistance
* -Memoir Transcription
* -Spaghetti Dinner Team
* -Publicity Assistance
* Other ideas welcome too!!
Call Kathleen Byrnes,
Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator
WE NEED & WANT YOUR FEEDBACK —
WCSC SURVEY COMING LATE NOVEMBER
Your comments & ideas help us plan for the future and make sure that we are offering meaningful programs that provide you with information, services, activities, and social connections that will make a difference to you. We also need to demonstrate to our funders that our programs are making a positive difference to the people we serve.
Later in November, we will be conducting a survey to help us understand how we are doing, and how we can do even better. We hope you will be willing to participate and give us this important feedback. More information about the survey will be posted at the Center in mid-November. In advance, thanks!
Center Information
Annual Membership
Consider becoming a WCSC member for 2007. Membership supports the Center and gives benefits to members - such as reduced tuition for many programs, & preferential participation in space-limited / member-only programs. Financial aid for membership is available and is handled confidentially. Applications for 2007 membership will be available at the Center November 15th, and will be included in the next newsletter. If you have questions about membership, call the Center.
Weather-Related Closure Policy
WCSC follows Seattle Public Schools for weather-related closures.
Call the Center at (206) 461-7825 for more information.
The Center will be CLOSED on:
* November 23 & 24, 2006
* December 25, 2006
* January 1, 2007
Participation, Registration, & Sign-In
Advance sign-up for most programs, classes, and services is suggested or required. This can be done in-person or by calling the front desk at (206) 461-7825 - unless otherwise indicated. (Activities that do not require advance sign-up are noted as in this newsletter.)
All participants & users of the Center are required to sign-in at the front desk or at the program/activity with individual information.
To confirm / assure your reservation in programs and activities, full payment is required.
Certain programs and activities are for members only; consider membership if you want to fully participate.
Non-Discrimination Policy
Wallingford Community Senior Center assures that no person (on grounds of race, color, sex, age, disability or national origin) shall be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. (Provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 (P.L. 100.259), & Seattle City policy.) WCSC programs & activities are accessible to those with disabilities.
Tuition and Fees
Program tuition and fees help pay instructors and defray overall operational expenses of the Center.
Refunds are not available once you have paid for a program or class (unless the program is cancelled by WCSC). Special circumstances will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis; a credit for a future program or class may be granted.
Financial Assistance
Financial aid to cover tuition and fees for programs is available to members only, and is granted based on need. Such requests and personal information are handled confidentially. Contact the Center for further information.
Van Transportation
* Van service to and from the Center is available to all participants. **** Riders are requested to pay $1.00 for each regular ride (each way) to help defray costs, which will allow us to continue this service. ****
* Van service for events or outings may be available, if an adequate number of participants sign-up in advance. Different fees may apply for events or outings.
* Reservations for van rides must be arranged 48 hours in advance of the requested ride. Reservations can be made in-person or by calling the front desk at (206) 461-7825. If you have a standing “reservation”, the van driver will call in advance of pick-up to confirm. If you need to cancel a van reservation, call the van cell phone at (206) 856-8250 or the Center as soon as possible.
* Geographic area for door-to-door van service is Seattle, north of the ship canal up to N. 145th St.
Board of Directors
Lisa Kane, President
Wendy Watts
Marcia Ives
Candace Barroga
Carol Ballard
Laura Berry
Gary Ehret
Charles Frey
Marie Lee
Bryan McFadden
Jim Olney
Janet Smith
Terri Pointer
Melissa Walpole
Wallingford Community Senior Center
Phone: (206) 461-7825
Fax: (206) 461-3938
www.wallingfordseniors.org
Hours: Monday—Friday 8:30 am —5:00 pm (Other Times as Scheduled)
Executive Director
Kathleen Cromp
Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator
Kathleen Byrnes
Program Assistant
Judi Hoffman
Kitchen Coordinator
Bob Robbins
Van Drivers
Mike Lemon
Ken Lewis
Custodian
Maggie Jackson