The beacon in the storm

BY LYNN BROGAN, MSW, RSW, NSCSW TREASURER

As I write this report, we are facing a global pandemic. COVID-19 is our generation’s crisis.

While we are all facing this storm, I am cognisant that its impact differs from individual to individual, family to family, and community to community. It’s difficult to grasp the reality of it all, and the devastation it has left in its wake. As the fight against COVID-19 goes on we not only see the atrocities happening across the world and in our province, we also hear about and see so many acts of kindness and selflessness. The spirit and courage of Nova Scotians shine in times of crisis. The power of human connection is evident.

During these strange and unprecedented times, I know there are social workers in this province who are leaving their families to go to work, risking everything to protect, care, and support others. We have a strong history as social workers of stepping up and leaning into storms no matter how big the challenge. Thank you for all you do, and for your dedication and compassion in the service of others.

As social workers, we are intimately aware of not only how this virus has impacted our own life, we are keenly aware of its impact on vulnerable Nova Scotians. COVID-19 has further exposed the injustices and inequalities that exist across our country. While we are all cognisant of the financial and health care crisis that is occurring, the psychosocial impact on our citizens from the very young to the elderly will be felt for years to come. It is my hope that this pandemic provides an opportunity for reflection on our federal and provincial public policies that allows for the building of healthy, inclusive communities where no one is left behind.

During this crisis while the College’s physical office is closed, staff are continuing to work remotely from home in effort to serve the public and support our members in any way they can. Alec and I have continued to regularly meet to ensure our finances are regularly monitored and bills are paid.

From a financial perspective, the College is a member-driven organization whose revenue is generated through membership annual fees. These fees provide the foundation for all financial decisions that are made.

In examining the year-end budget, the College achieved a balanced budget. In 2019, our revenue totalled $884,050 and our expenditures totalled $884,132. Our total assets as of December 31 were $1,452,059.

We were able to achieve a balanced budget for two main reasons. Our membership numbers increased which positively impacted our revenue. Also, a tremendous amount of oversight and solid decision making occurred, which greatly helped to manage and contain our operational pressures.

To ensure the College’s financial stability, we maintain and administer operational and discipline reserves. These reserves are accessed in the event of an unexpected shortfall or discipline matter. Currently our Operational Reserve Fund is within best practice guidelines of having an equivalent of 3-6 months of funding, to cover the costs of unforeseen expenses and any financial commitments. This operational reserve has a balance of $506,016. Our Discipline Reserve Fund is also within our policy guidelines, having a balance of $144,071. Reserve funds are separate accounts, and no funds from these accounts can be used without formal approval from Council. Attending to the current complexities and pressures experienced by regulatory bodies across the country, coupled with the College’s transformational agenda and goal of making impactful change, has heightened the responsibilities and expectations of the College. As we enter the third year of our ambitious five-year strategic plan to create a vibrant, visible and connected social work community, the fact remains with increased demands and expectations the College will face both fiscal and human resource pressures. The College will need to examine these pressures, and identify future organizational and operational options to ensure the College’s regulatory mandate and association needs are met.

On a closing note, I am so proud to serve as your treasurer, and do hope we will be able to come together soon. In the meantime, be safe, strong and kind to yourselves and one another.