It is the time of the year when we reflect on the year behind us, give thanks to all those who matter in our lives, and renew our goals, hopes and dreams for the year ahead.
In a year beset by the challenges of an unprecedented recession, all of us are making sacrifices in order to minimize the struggle experienced by our loved ones. Sleepless nights, anxiety and heartache are omnipresent, and many "certainties" of the past may appear lost.
ECF has been hit hard by the state's response to the economic crisis. Our funding and referral base has decreased significantly, which has necessitated some staff layoffs (twelve positions to date) and myriad other streamlining action throughout our organization. Our administrative and fund development overhead is below 11%, which, according to our auditors, is nearly unbelievably lean. Indeed, while most non-profit organizations have cut or even eliminated programs, made massive staff layoffs and even reduced already depressed staff wages, ECF has avoided making those draconian reductions up to now. Unfortunately, the forecast is gloomy, and we are preparing ourselves for the "rainy days" to come.
In the year 2009, ECF served well over 2,000 children and adults challenged daily by their disabilities.
- Children - whose parents were told they would never speak - spoke.
- Teenagers who were told their entire lives that they were not capable of learning, graduated from our Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)-accredited Kayne Eras Center. Twenty-one students graduated in 2009.
- The "unemployable" became employed in the community thanks to the support of our Supported Employment program.
- ECF artists sold more artwork in this year than any previous year on record. One of our artist's pieces was even chosen to be exhibited in the Smithsonian!
At ECF, we are working hard to keep the impact of today's recession as far away as possible from the children and adults who rely on us to keep their hopes and dreams alive. These are the people we love, and it remains our mission to overcome the obstacles of the day and keep their paths clear.
For nearly 64 years, ECF has relied heavily on the generosity and support of our friends and families to help us to keep the promises we have made. Year after year, and decade after decade, you have not let us down. After over a decade of service to ECF, the extraordinary acts of kindness, dedication and yes, sacrifice that I witness from our families and friends continue to touch me deeply.
- Members of the ECF Board take time away from their families and their jobs to volunteer to help us achieve a goal, or to steer us through turbulent waters.
- Friends in the community have insisted we accept their professional services at no charge.
- Families call at all hours of the night to ask if there is anything they can do to help us care for their son or daughter.
Now, perhaps more than ever, I understand why my predecessor Dr. Robert Shushan devoted over 40 years to the seat I am privileged to have. I cherish every day at ECF, and appreciate all the amazing people, like you, who have responded to our requests for help and who have paved the way for the thousands of "ordinary miracles" we experience.
I hope you and your loved ones have a wonderful holiday season, and that you find the comfort and joy you richly deserve.
With all my appreciation, love and respect,
Scott D. Bowling, Psy.D.
President and CEO
