Thursday, November 17, 2011

Giving Thanks

It may be cliché to write about what I am thankful for – but I am going to do it anyway. After all, Thanksgiving is next week and we are supposed to reflect on all that we are grateful for in our lives, right? CANI is a huge part of my life, so I can’t help but think about all that I am thankful for through my work here.

First and foremost, I am thankful for the wonderful people that I get to work with each and every day. The employees at CANI are highly professional, highly skilled, and above all, highly dedicated to helping people and serving our mission. There are tough days in this business we’re in, and I watch you work hard every day to do all you can to serve the people of northeast Indiana. Thank you.

Here are some other things I am thankful for (in no particular order):

Our Funders (not to be confused with our founders – who I am also thankful for)
Obviously we could do nothing without you. You provide us with financial resources that help people. But more than that, I am thankful for the relationships that we have developed. You help us do our work better.

Our Individual and Business Donors
Donations are critical to us because they help fill the gaps of other funding sources. I know that there are many charities out there that are deserving of your gifts. I am thankful that you have chosen us and our mission as your cause.

Our Volunteers
In particular, our wonderful Board of Directors and Head Start Policy Council members. You help make CANI go every day. You provide excellent leadership and direction for this organization, and I am excited to get to work with you in the coming years.

Our Partners (of which there are many!)
CANI has many different programs, and I am proud of the partnerships we have developed in each one. We work closely with governmental entities, faith-based organizations, businesses, and many, many more. We could not do our work without you.

Our Clients
You may be in a tough spot right now, but we appreciate the opportunity to serve you. We see your love towards your family and how hard you work to meet their needs. It is inspiring! We will continue helping you in any way we can as you work toward your goals.

Our Communities
Whether you know it or not, almost every one of you is involved in some way with our mission to eliminate poverty. When you vote.  When you advocate for other people.  When you contribute to your church, school, or favorite charity.  When you help your neighbor or family member. I appreciate all that you do in the communities where we live and work.

So there you have it… now it’s your turn. What are you thankful for?