Annual Reports

The 2011 Annual General Meeting of the Abbotsford Hospice Society will take place on Wednesday, September 28^th 2011 at 33134 Marshall Road Abbotsford B.C. beginning at 6:00 pm. You must be a member to vote or run for office.

Message from the Executive Director

Through strong governance, responsible and passionate stewardship, and integrity systems, AHS provides a solid framework in which our non profit charitable organization operates. It is a privilege to lead the Abbotsford Hospice Society, to foster life long connections and to build community. It is through compassion and the visions of many that we shape the future of this city and together we are making Abbotsford one of the best cities to conduct business, raise families, change lives, and most of all call home.

This year the Abbotsford Hospice Society celebrates 25 years serving this community - a significant accomplishment as it marks a quarter of a century in business. Since 1986 we have been providing support to people as young as 19 who are living with a terminal or life threatening illness and comforting children, teens and families on their very personal journey of grief and loss. Our service areas include, one to one companionship for adults and children, family counselling, group support for adults and children and community outreach. For those here tonight that have lost a loved one or friend – we grieve with you and for those who are caring for a loved one or friend we join you in your very personal journey.

No matter who we are, each of us is a part of something bigger. The idea that if “you have a dream and you’re willing to work hard you will succeed” certainly rings true. Our reputation, critical front line services and commitment to our community has led us into new partnerships and with your support we will take our place at the corner of Marshall and Gladwin on the Campus of Care along with Canuck Place Children’s Hospice and Matthew’s House. Thank you to Mayor Peary, Frank Pizutto and City Councillors for your progressive approach and for agreeing to the Campus of Care concept by providing the land where three buildings will come to life and serve children, teens and adults both locally and provincially.

Our dedicated, skilled and compassionate Abbotsford Hospice Society staff, board members and volunteers work tirelessly to provide a variety of exemplary services to this community. I rely on their wise advice every single day and I am tremendously grateful for their service, commitment and insight.

In particular I would like to honour our clients and their families as it is because of them that we learn about courage, love and life.

This year, we celebrate 25 years and the next 25. Remember when you donate to hospice whether you give money, goods or your time, you become an important link in the chain that reaches people in very real ways, when they need it most. You can be very proud of your involvement with the hospice. Together, we are doing good work.

Debbie Lehmann, Executive Director—Abbotsford Hospice Society