
2 minute read
welcome message
It is always a pleasure to reflect on the past year at FTP—the challenges, solutions, accomplishments, and all the terrific staff and volunteers. I wish systemic and cultural barriers could be removed more rapidly and suitably so that fewer women and gender diverse individuals would require FTP’s support and I greatly value the opportunity to have been part of an amazing team all working toward that goal.
I extend a very heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed their time and efforts toward ensuring the wellbeing, health and safety of FTP clients and our staff.
While this past year has seen significant relaxation of restrictions and a normalization of operations, the instances of gender-based violence and home insecurity has seen a notable increase. As the challenges grow in magnitude and complexity for women, their children and gender diverse individuals, so too does the demand of FTP services. Most importantly, FTP has stayed relevant to the changing community needs while planning for agency growth.
I thank each board member, our Executive Director, Norah Kennedy, and her leadership team for their dedication, commitment and perspective. They have all worked tirelessly this past year.
We completed our 2023-2026 strategic plan that affirms our mission. Embedded in our agency values, the plan lays out ambitious goals and a solid foundation to build on for the upcoming years.
Considerable efforts were made in advancing initiatives to provide safe, accessible, affordable and sustainable housing—a source of much hope!
Both board and staff continue to reflect and learn as we seek to collectively change the way people think and behave around an increasingly diverse group of clients and colleagues. As an organization, we are committed to finding ways to better represent the people we support.
As a volunteer, I continue to be inspired by and in awe of the entire team at FTP, who continue to look for ways to expand support, adapt to the changing needs of our clients, and assist people with dignity and respect every day. They work in many diverse roles and are crucial in making FTP an effective and well-respected leader of social services within the community we serve.
Meeting our funding requirements could not be accomplished without the grants and generous support from all levels of government. This provision of core funding forms an essential foundation from which FTP can deliver the services that are needed by our clients and our community.
I am tremendously grateful for the gifts of time from our volunteers and the generous financial support of our donors who embody the spirit of compassion. Much of our work would not be possible without their support. I am also grateful for the strong and trusting relationships with our many community partners who help FTP in its work to end gender-based violence and to provide hope and dignity to the people we are privileged to meet.
We are embarking on exciting and meaningful projects in the coming year. This annual report provides an overview of all that was accomplished in 2022-2023. Once again, this would not have been possible without the collaboration of our community members and partners.
It has been an honour to serve and support, and a sincere privilege to be connected with FTP.
With much gratitude,
Carissa Burton Board President
