As we transition into the fall and winter seasons, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the abundant successes and opportunities that 2023 has brought to our organization. The past year has been nothing short of exhilarating, and as we look ahead, we can anticipate even more exciting developments on the horizon. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every committee, member, and agency that has played a vital role in fostering a sense of unity, learning, and camaraderie within our organization.

The Membership Committee successfully achieved its annual goal. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous Platinum, Gold, and Bronze members, as well as to our new and returning members and member agencies. We eagerly anticipate the Membership Committee’s upcoming initiatives that will stem from our new Strategic Plan, promising exciting changes for our membership

The Networking Committee has organized exciting events, including the beloved Progressive Dinner, which will return next year. We’re also thrilled about the upcoming Progressive Pairing event in a few weeks—it’s bound to be a hit! Make sure to visit our website to register for this event on October 19th. Throughout the year, the Networking Committee has arranged numerous “Network with the Network” gatherings, with more planned to wrap up the year. We extend special thanks to our sponsors: Tennyson Court, Orchid Adult Day Care, Fredonia Place, FayeBrooke on Youngs, Touching Hearts at Home, Brookdale Kenmore, Fallon Health Weinberg, Glenwell, Lawley Medicare Solutions, Brompton Heights (and our missing co-sponsors), Trusted Choice Homecare, The Olear Team, and Venture Forthe. Your support is greatly appreciated!

The Education Committee achieved success with their June workshop on Alcoholism and is currently dedicated to preparing an exceptional 43rd Annual Meeting titled “Balancing the Aging Landscape,” set for Thursday, November 2nd at the M Hotel. This event will feature two dynamic speakers: Greg Olsen, Acting Director of the NYS Office for Aging, and Nancy Weil from the Laugh Academy. Together, we will delve into the current state of aging in New York State and discover innovative ways to incorporate humor, fortify our teams, and redefine our approach to aging. 

The Special Events Committee treated us to an enjoyable January Social, featuring the elegant saxophone melodies of Saxman Slim, as well as a delightful ‘Taste of the Network’ event in July. And, let’s not overlook the exciting basket raffle scheduled for our upcoming Annual Meeting, promising to be the grandest one we’ve ever seen.

The Communications Committee remains committed to promoting the Network on social media and actively seeks innovative methods to disseminate information to both our valued members and the wider community.

I extend my sincere gratitude to our dedicated Board of Directors, whose unwavering commitment and tireless efforts are instrumental in driving the prosperity of our organization. They are diligently crafting a new Strategic Plan, and we anticipate sharing it with our valued Membership by January 2024

We extend a warm welcome to our new board members Sharon Plant and Deb Mathur, and at the same time, I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to Bonnie McMorrow, Mary Baty and Julie Whitbeck-Lewinski. Bonnie is finishing up her board term after eight years. She has been a valuable asset contributing significantly not only to the board, but also serving as the Co-Chair of our Special Events Committee. Mary and Julie are both leaving the board for different reasons and will truly be missed.

In closing, let us remember that the true essence of our organization lies not only in its past accomplishments but in the limitless potential of its future. As we step into the seasons ahead, let’s continue to embrace every opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Let the falling leaves remind us that change is a beautiful dance, and as we navigate the winds of time, let’s keep our spirits high and our hearts open. We invite each and every one of you to join us in our journey—attend our events, meet new friends, and dance on windy days. Together, we’ll create a future that’s as vibrant and promising as the autumn leaves themselves. Thank you for being an integral part of our shared success, and we look forward to an even brighter tomorrow.

April Romanowski – President