The event started with the Land Acknowledgment and Welcome Address led by Rita Khanchat, Associate Director, followed by the opening prayer and grace before meals led by Sr Ann Marie Walsh fcJ, this was followed right away by a scrumptious brunch prepared by our fabulous Kitchen staff.
We've added something new to the brunch this year: we've asked donors and volunteers to bring a friend who they believe would be interested in learning more about the Center's work in an effort to reach as many people as possible. Approximately sixteen individuals were new to the Centre at the time of the event.
During the brunch, we were serenaded by Nicko Ramos, a young promising artist in Calgary. Whitney, the Executive Director then shared the impact report on how the donors' and volunteers' contributions help sustain the programs, services, works, and maintenance of the FCJ Centre. She ended her report by saying that the donors and volunteers continued help (in whatever ways) means the world to the Centre as we strive to accompany others and make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Kharah, Vice Chair of the Board of consultants, gave a message of gratitude, followed by the closing remarks and an invitation to upcoming events by Sr Ger Curran fcJ, local leader. Sr Ann Marie also talked about the Spiritual Direction Training Program and Fr Adrian Martens; member of the Board offered the closing prayer. Sr Terry Smith fcJ also led the guests that were new to the Centre for a quick tour of the retreat and conference Centre.
To our dear donors and volunteers:
On behalf of the Board of Consultants and the FCJ Centre staff, we are pleased to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our donors and volunteers who joined us for the Annual Donors and Volunteers Appreciation Brunch on May 11, 2024, at the FCJ Retreat and Conference Centre.
The event was made a huge success by your presence, constant support, and dedication to our organization. We appreciate all your contributions, and we hope to continue working with you to achieve our mission of being a Centre of hospitality and hope where God can be experienced in a changing world.
We wanted to let those who couldn't make it know how much we appreciate your support and commitment to our organization. We missed you and we hope to meet you at one of our upcoming events! Please save the date for our Annual Tea Fundraising Event: September 15, 2024, 2:00 PM.
One of the highlights of the report was the announcement of the bathroom renovation project completion of 8 regular bathtubs, 16 shower rooms, and 2 NEW accessible bathrooms. Read more of the Report HERE – https://www.fcjcentre.ca/bathroomrenovation
Whitney highlighted that the Centre won’t be able to continue the Centre mission and do any of the programs and services without your help. She mentioned that the donations received:
helped subsidize the cost of running our programs
helped provide people with tools and resources to deepen their personal and spiritual relationships and enhance their overall well-being
helped foster a sense of community, belonging, and interconnectedness.
helped us create a space for individuals to share their experiences (to be heard and listened to), and to accompany them.
helped sustain the FCJ Centre's mission of providing a welcoming and inclusive space for people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
helped create a positive personal impact that hopefully will lead to social impact on the wider community in Calgary, Canada, and beyond!
And that none of the above could have happened without the extra funding for our on-going maintenance.
Once again, we thank you for your generous support and dedication to our Centre.
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