Letter from the President

Deciding to launch a fundraising campaign during a global recession takes conviction in one’s cause, and confidence in the community. I’m lucky to work in a place where courage is a daily encounter.

Whenever I take a walk through our parking lot, I see parents and caregivers lifting and arranging their children into wheelchairs and walkers. As I step into the elevator I usually meet some of our kids travelling with their therapists or caseworkers, making their way about their own days. It is both a humbling and inspiring experience, as I am constantly reminded of the challenging journeys of children with disabilities.

Holland Bloorview is an organization that is consumed with the question, “what more can be done to improve the quality of life for these children?” Our new $80 million No Limits Campaign for Childhood Disability is our most ambitious yet. Our goal is simple: to make sure that there are always funds available to do more and do better for children with special needs.

As you read through this year’s report, I know that you will share our excitement and gratitude for Bill and Susanne Holland’s genuine concern for children. The Holland Family’s transformational gift, combined with the collective commitment of the thousands of other donors who made gifts of all sizes in a challenging economy, have given us every reason to believe that we are “Up, Up and Away” and that you, our community, will continue to invest in the futures of our children.

I would like to thank and acknowledge the leadership and dedication of our Board Chair, Tom Muir, who will be retiring after a two-year term. Tom has served childhood disability with distinction and honour. His leadership and wise counsel have made us stronger.