Chairperson's Message
October 2006
The content of my previous messages focused primarily on Kathleen Phillips,
our consummate Executive Director, her tireless staff, the Board of Directors
and our multitude of devoted Chapter volunteers. The messages expressed
the accomplishments that together we achieved throughout the year along
with the difficulties we overcame. This year I would like to reaffirm these
same sentiments but concentrate more on a group that is as equally important
to our Chapter, its donors.
Our donors come in countless forms. Many play a dual roll for our chapter.
They are our staff, Board of Directors, and volunteers. Many are unknown to
us, creating considerable excitement with their generosity. They all contribute
their hard earned wealth for a myriad of reasons. Often it is the result of a
terrible disaster like Katrina or because we have assisted someone close to
them. Regardless of the reason, from the person who sends $1.00 per week
to the United Way to our major donors that have individually given the
Chapter thousands of dollars, I would like to thank you.
A segment of our donors that we have become increasingly reliant upon are
those that have charitably decided to enrich the Chapter through their estate.
I am in amazement of these individuals who remember us with what will
become their last official act. Several of these are volunteers who gave us
their time and efforts for many years. Why then do they feel compelled to
share with us even after death? Perhaps it is because they believe the
Red Cross gave them a chance to experience one of the most rewarding
periods of their lives. That the Red Cross is indeed Clara Barton’s legacy
of selfless giving, and the supplier of hope when people are most desperate.
That the services we deliver to others are with no strings attached and no
self-fulfilling indulgences whether they are personal, political, or religious.
And, that this noble giving to another in grievous need is ultimately the
highest blessing one can bestow upon oneself.
I would like to thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Board Chair
for the last three years and to wish my successor, Sally Douglas, the best of luck.
David Aldrich, Chair
The Berkshire County Chapter of
The American Red Cross
Chairperson's Message 2005
Chairperson's Message 2004
Chairperson's Message 2002
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