By Caroline Ashekian
The Squamish Community Foundation (SCF) celebrated the inaugural launch of its Vital Signs report in 2011.
The journey has been abundant with community engagement, visionary leadership, and many volunteer hours. I have had the privilege to be a part of this journey as a participant in the community engagement process.
Now, as a new board member with the SCF, I admire the fruits of everyone’s labour, and have a greater appreciation for the process by which this project was realized.
Caroline Ashekian, board member with Squamish Community Foundation
The launch of this first Squamish Vital Signs report is a milestone achievement for our board. And by virtue of the process and all that the report shares, it is also a celebration of our community’s achievements and successes. The results showcase positive trends, an exciting one being the health and wellness of the community, with indicators reflecting healthier and more active residents than both the BC and national levels, as well as a growing sense of life satisfaction.
Of course, by providing a snapshot of the community, Squamish’s Vital Signs 2011 also reflects opportunities for growth and improvement, such as in the areas of early childhood development, safety, and the gap between rich and poor. For every key issue, the report includes a special feature on how the SCF is contributing to improvements in these areas, and how residents can do their part to help.
The Squamish Vital Signs launch event featured more than one reason to celebrate. In addition to the report launch and presentation, the evening featured presentations and displays from our grantees, and recognition of our donors with the first presentation of our Ascent of Philanthropy program.
The Squamish Vital Signs is beneficial on many levels, and provides clear vision to SCF and our community as we all move forward and leap into action.
Caroline Ashekian is a Director of Squamish Community Foundation
