House of Friendship To Mark Two Milestones In Service

KITCHENER WATERLOO – At its upcoming Annual Meeting on Monday, June 22, 2009 at Calvin Presbyterian Church, Kitchener, starting at 6:45 pm, House of Friendship will mark its 70th year of extending the hand of friendship to our neighbours in need, and bid farewell to long-time Executive Director, Deborah Schlichter.

In addition to the release of House of Friendship’s 70th Annual Report, the Program portion of the evening, which will start at 8:00 pm, will feature a Special Farewell Tribute for Ms Schlichter. She has served with House of Friendship for 25 years, the past 11 years as Executive Director. In that time, she has overseen much growth as part of House of Friendship’s service to those living on low-income. Since 1998, this growth has included several new programs: Alcontrol, Sunnydale Community Centre, Kingsdale Community Centre, Moving Forward, Charles Village, and most recently, last year, Bridges to Health.

Much of this work has been accomplished in collaboration with local groups, a hallmark of Ms. Schlichter’s tenure. In the broader community, Ms Schlichter is a well-known and respected housing advocate. She looks forward to taking her experience and knowledge of the community to her new position as Director of Housing with the Region of Waterloo, which she assumes Monday June 29, 2009, “Even though leaving House of Friendship will be very difficult for me, I feel very good about my time here and can leave with wonderful memories and learning experiences.”

House of Friendship’s Board of Directors has initiated a search process for Ms. Schlichter’s successor, and anticipates having someone in the role later this year. Until then, Anthony Bender, Community Services Program Director, will be acting as interim Executive Director. Board, staff, volunteers, friends and community members look forward to working with him to carry forward the legacy of Ms. Schlichter as they continue to meet the needs of our community during these challenging economic times.

Board President, Elizabeth McNair comments, “As Executive Director, Deborah Schlichter has intentionally taken initiative while responsibly embracing change, providing inspiration and encouragement. “Win – win” solutions have been sought without compromising her personal and agency values. Deborah motivates by her example and affirms other’s contributions. While she is wished the best in her new position, she will most certainly be missed.”

House of Friendship is a charitable agency founded in partnership with local Christian churches. 2009 marks its 70th year of service to low-income adults, youth and children in Waterloo Region who are in need of support. It also promotes opportunities for personal growth, wholesome relationships and community development through the application of holistic Christian principles. Led by a volunteer Board of Directors, it serves over 32,500 people annually through 18 different residential and community outreach programs. More information can be found at www.houseoffriendship.org.

All are invited and welcome. Please r.s.v.p. to 519-742-8327 or admin@houseoffriendship.org