DOCUMENT

Our AGM on 28 April signalled the fact that another year had come to an end and simultaneously presented me with the opportunity to report to our members. It was a privilege to serve you as National Executive Chairperson for another year. I am delighted to be working with some new, and returning, members with the new National Council this year which comprises of Rebecca Poad, Vice Chairperson (South Island); John Hawkins and Francesca Herdahl- Thorsing (Central); Jessica Anderson and Joy Jenkin (Northern) and Kim Russell (South Island). The next quarter ahead will see the team and I working on our 2023 – 2025 Strategic Plan and working on the Annual Operating Plan to support this strategy. Our Vision, Freedom beyond limits; our Mission, promoting freedom of choice and a responsive society; and our values, Sustainable, Empowering, Proactive and Connected will remain at the forefront of our planning. Our key services are the pillars of our organisation, and I am proud of what we offer to new, and existing, members. The MDANZ Bradley Jenkin Memorial Fund continues to be a fantastic initiative and is making a positive difference to our members. This fund is something I fully support, as it is an awesome way to give a little back to our members. The number of applications continues to grow with each round and although we would love to fund every application, it is impossible to do so. Some of the things we fund are conference attendance, travel, hearing aids, funds toward an electric bike, laptops, vaccinations, funds toward university fees and garden paths! We continue to invest in other core services for our members including free counselling through RAISE, our quarterly In Touch magazine, as well as our important and vital fieldworker service. Like many charitable organisations, the times ahead will be challenging. Reforms to the health and disability sectors, coupled with the inflationary economic climate means we must navigate a careful path forward. But we are not deterred and are committed to providing FROM THE DESK Trevor Jenkin National Executive Chairperson To the future ... Kōrero with Trevor quality community-based services to those living with a neuromuscular condition who trust us to be a part of their support network. Hope you enjoy this issue of In Touch . TAKE YOUR LIFE TO THE NEXT LEVEL... EXPERIENCE THAT LASTS A LIFETIME www.dofehillary.org.nz facebook.com/dukeofednz