The end of the year is the perfect time to reflect on the things for which we are grateful. This year, as I mark the end of my first year as CEO and President, I have so much to celebrate.

First and foremost, I am grateful for the incredibly dedicated staff who work here. Their commitment to excellence is unfailing and the care they provide is unparalleled. To them, it really is personal. We work as a team and that means we weather the challenging times and celebrate the good times together.

I am also thankful for our dedicated Board of Directors, who have given beyond measure this year as we incorporated our non-medical arm under the VNA umbrella of care; as we faced financial worries in an unstable economy; and embarked on a major re-branding effort to increase our visibility in the community. The Board’s help has been essential as we begin preparations for celebrating our Centennial year in 2009.

Looking back at 2008, I am also grateful for the following:

• The United Way of York County and their continued support of our work.
• The special gift from the New Oxford Chamber of Commerce, who selected VNA as one of two non-profits to benefit from their bi-annual Holiday Open House Tour.
• Our volunteers. They do everything from stuffing envelopes to helping and supporting our Hospice patients and their families.
• The unfailing generosity of our community. You buy pizza on Domino’s Pizza Sunday; you order Secretary’s Day baskets; and you designate us on your United Way forms.
• Your trust. Every day, we have the honor and the privilege of helping local families care for their loved ones.

Sincerely,

Linda Baile, President & CEO
VNA of Hanover & Spring Grove