Newsletter Articles:
• BIG STEPS ushers in the new year with even bigger goals
• It takes leaders to make a difference and inspire others
• CHEO sets the standard in audiology
• Costco Wholesale Delivers the Goods
• Speaking out and stepping up for children's mental health research
BIG STEPS ushers in the new year with even bigger goals
There is always something exciting about hanging up a new calendar. Looking at the month of January, I can’t help but look back to where the BIG STEPS campaign was at this time last year and the giant steps forward we have taken as we begin 2010. As I embark on my second semester this year at Carleton University, I experience the same sense of anticipation and accomplishment with both my studies and the BIG STEPS campaign. Both of these significant events in my life are running smoothly and gaining momentum each day.
I am pleased to announce that the campaign has now reached a milestone total of $10 million. This monumental achievement is a reflection of the amazing and generous people that surround us and an example of what can be achieved when we work together as a team.
In this edition you will have an opportunity to meet the taskforce of individuals who have been donating their time and efforts leading the BIG STEPS campaign. These BIG STEPS ambassadors have set the pace for our campaign; working individually and as a team to achieve success!
Many of you may have already noticed the series of advertisements that have been appearing in the Ottawa Citizen featuring BIG STEPS taskforce members as well as donors. The colourful ads are a reminder that different people contribute for different reasons. The advertisements embody the spirit of giving on so many levels -- whether it be from a family perspective, business initiative, or as an individual. It goes without saying that every donor has a very special and personal reason to give and take action.
In addition to our outstanding taskforce, we are lucky to receive on-going support from so many community minded organizations in this wonderful city of ours. Costco Wholesale, a leader in charitable giving raised $3.8 million for the BIG STEPS campaign in 2009. Costco’s continued support for the children and youth of CHEO is a team effort that spans the entire organization and rallies staff and suppliers on all levels to achieve a common goal – raising funds for CHEO.
As we turn our attention to the winter ahead, we have not lost focus on our final goal -- to make a positive difference for children in our community. In this edition of the BIG STEPS newsletter we take a closer look at the need for research funding in the area of mental health. Dr. Ian Manion shares some of his thoughts around the complex and emotionally charged world of mental health in children and youths. Dr. Manion highlights the importance of research funding for this growing medical concern.
I encourage you to forward this second edition of the BIG STEPS e-newsletter to your family, friends and colleagues who would be interested in learning about the BIG STEPS happening at CHEO as well as provide us with your feedback.
From my family to yours – best wishes for a happy and healthy New Year and thank you for you support.
Charles Ofori-Attah
Campaign Chair