What makes an agency effective? The ability to prioritize the right things to do
at the right time, while not losing sight of the overall goal.
 |
Susan Escher (right) with husband, Mitch, at the
dedication of the SEVI House. |
Through
my years working as a volunteer at Sheffield and as the Board Chairperson, I
have seen the organization adapt to the needs of the community while working to
make a positive impact in the lives of the women and children we serve. That included setting up a “classroom” during COVID
to accommodate student learning. It has been in the addition of the SEVI building to expand
the number of families that can be served. Also, it is the ongoing strengthening of the
after-care program to continue to support our families long after they leave
our facility.
 |
Susan Escher (left) speaking at the SEVI House dedication
with CEO/President Kelly Welch (right) and client Hope (center). |
In
addition, every day we help mothers improve their parenting and coping skills,
work with them on budget and work skills and help the kids have areas for
creativity and learning in a safe environment. So many come from tragic, trauma-filled
circumstances with little hope for the future.
Martin
Luther King Jr said, “out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope”.
Sheffield is a stepping stone of hope for so many
families. As we look to the future, Sheffield will continue
to reassess how we can be effective – whether that is expanding services or
improving our facilities.
I am
honored to work with the excellent staff, volunteers and Sheffield families to
improve the quality of life in our community and encourage everyone to get
involved.
