Hi everyone. I'm Joan Cummings, and I recently completed my term as the Board Chair for WVCS. I have been incredibly blessed to be part of this amazing organization for the past four years, and from my perspective as Board Chair, 2020 was an astonishing year to say the least!
As I look back the year seems to have "zoomed" by. Yes, our meetings were all remote, which brought its own set of challenges. This year we welcomed several new Board Members whom we never met in person but who quickly came up to speed and jumped right in. We modified our programs to operate safely within the COVID limitations even as the needs of our clients grew substantially. However, the many challenges we faced were far outweighed by our successes.
Some of the highlights from 2020 include:
Changing our method of serving clients in the COVID-19 environment. This allowed us to continue to pursue our mission of serving the most impacted members of our community.
Completing our biggest Capital Campaign in the midst of a pandemic. Thank you to the Capital Campaign Committee for your tireless efforts and to our donors for your support.
Moving to the temporary pantry location at the Oaks in Cupertino. Thank you, KT Urban, for your support! Thank you, Edenbridge Homes, for the fabulous work! Thank you, Home Aid, for your contributions to our project!
Moving back into our renovated facility and welcoming our clients into the new and improved WVCS market. The delight on their faces as they could shop in-person at our new market was so special - smiles all around!!
Purchasing the new Mobile Park-It Market (see below) that enables us to provide access to more clients in Los Gatos, Saratoga, west San Jose, and De Anza and West Valley Colleges.
Moving our annual fundraiser, Chefs of Compassion, to a virtual event. Even in its remote format, it was the talk of the town.
All of these accomplishments were made possible because of the dedication of the stellar WVCS staff and management team, led by Executive Director, Josh Selo. All of them truly made the impossible possible.
As I reflect on all of these accomplishments, I can't help but feel humbled that our community really stepped up and helped us achieve these goals. During 2020, as so many felt isolated and alone, I had the privilege of being a part of this generous community. For this I am so grateful. As a result of this generosity we were able to continue to work tirelessly on our mission and vision of a community where every person has food on their table and a roof over their head. I am most thankful that we were able to continue to provide food and help so many avoid eviction as a result of job loss during the pandemic. But our work is not done. There are still many who are struggling as a result of the challenges of the pandemic. WVCS will continue to be by their side and help them get back on their feet.
Thank you to members of our community, Board Members, and staff of WVCS. It has been an extraordinary time, and working with all of you was the highlight of my year.
With gratitude,
Joan Cummings
2019-2020 Board Chair
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