DOCUMENT

It has been a busy few months as the National Support Office finalised the Association’s 2023 – 2025 strategic plan. The strategic planning process is a big picture view and is about the organisation as a whole. A strong organisational vision, combined with a mission and set of core values, ensures that all stakeholders are clear about the purpose of their work and can focus energy and resources towards common goals. It also helps to guide behaviour and clarify the shared outcomes we would like to see for the future of the organisation and the people we are here to serve. I am excited about the direction approved by our National Council which will be circulated to the membership for consultation in the coming weeks. The consultation will allow members to provide feedback on the proposed strategic plan. Please take the time to let us know what you think as your feedback is vital to our future. As a charity, fundraising is a huge part of our work and our annual appeal, Roll1k for MDA, is our biggest fundraising campaign of the year. For 2023, we have set our target high, a fundraising goal of $50,000! Last year, we raised just over $36,000 with staff, members and branches getting FROM THE DESK Trevor Jenkin National Executive Chairperson Rolling into another annual appeal. Kōrero with Trevor out in their communities on wheels to raise vital funds and awareness so I am confident we can hit the target. This year we are raising funds for members to receive specific support to maintain their social and emotional wellbeing. I really hope to see more of our members out this year on their wheels so we can continue to support you with essential services. September is a busy month for us with many global awareness days for several of the conditions that MDANZ covers; Duchenne, CMT and LGMD all have awareness days this month. Keep an eye on Facebook for ways to support each of these special days. I hope you enjoy the warmer days spring brings and I look forward to hearing all about what challenge you do for the Roll1k for MDA fundraiser. To speak to us about leaving a gift in your will, please email info@mda.org.nz We have been helping Kiwi families for more than 60 years and by making a bequest, you are ensuring the sustainability of our organisation so that we can continue to be there for generations to come. Your good will benefits families Any bequest, no matter what size, will directly help those living with muscle wasting neuromuscular conditions, and enable us to continue our work within your community.