Farewell

Its hard to say goodbye. After 15 years of fundraising and events work I am moving to a new role. However I will still be working in the nonprofit sector, I guess it's in my blood! 

For those who work in nonprofit, you will understand what I mean. The cause becomes your life. It's your passion and your hobby. To work in this sector is hard and yet the rewards are truly great.  

Where else can one work alongside volunteers, those who choose the work without remuneration, and often say thanks to you, more than you say thank you back.

And while the employees do occasionally become frazzled by the chaos and pace of the job, the volunteers remind us of why we do it, its just as much for them and about them, as it is about the cause.

Volunteers I worked with at the Heart and Stroke Foundation (my previous position before here) still remain in my thoughts.  What I learned, mistakes I made along the way, and survivors like Patti and Sarah who will be forever in my heart. 

Thank you for every one I encountered in my 5 year journey at the Health Services Foundation.  While there are too many people to mention by name, I will make special mention of my grandmother "Tee".  She always gets involved in wherever I work.  And while she no longer volunteers her time, the people in our office at 150 King Street benefit from her monthly delivery of baked goods. 

Farewell until our paths cross again. 

Hannah Routly

Festival of Trees 2012