Dear friends, neighbors and family members:
It is that time of year, where we all begin to make resolutions for the new year, and in my case, look back at what I am thankful for. This year, I am blessed, both personally and professionally.
I am blessed personally, as my family is healthy, and happy. Is there anything more important in life? In my opinion, I don’t think so.
Professionally, as the President of the Board of Directors of Family & Community Services of Somerset County (FCSSC), I am blessed as well. I have the pleasure of working with a wonderful board of directors, and an outstanding, professional, talented staff at the agency. And, by the way, thankfully, they report, they are healthy and happy as well!
When I look back to 2016, it was a year of change at FCSSC. Our long term Executive Director, Eric Harris, announced and began a well-deserved retirement. While he still sees clients at the agency, he is now able to spend more time with his family. We were able to recruit a wonderful successor, Richard Schumann who will lead our transformation going forward. In a short period of time, Richard has already made an impact, and implemented a number of changes that will lead to better services that our friends, neighbors and family members in Somerset County have come to expect.
As I look forward to 2017, I hope that our year will be one of “coming together”. We have opportunities ahead of us, as a community, to help those in need. We have the opportunity to join together to prevent shootings, bullying, and other awful actions that are related to mental health. How do we come together and do this? Instead of assuming that someone else will help, consider asking yourself “what can I do to help?”. For me, I help by giving my time leading the Board of Directors at FCSSC. My colleagues on the board are so generous with their time and insights that help to shape the agency, which in turn helps our community. Let me re-phrase that… it helps OUR community.
The work we do at FCSSC goes directly to helping those in need here in OUR community. The monies raised do not go to some large corporate building out of state, they are 100% utilized in Somerset County, our home. Many of you are very busy with careers, family and other commitments and that is wonderful. You can also help by attending our fund raising events, or consider a donation. For those of you that work for generous organizations that match your funds, please remember to request the matching funds.
Please consider contacting me and asking “Howard, I like the work that is being done at FCSSC, what can I do to help?”. 2017 is the time for us to come together and work towards helping OUR community!
I wish you all a healthy and happy New Year and hope your dreams all come true!
Best,
Howard Hessel, FCSSC Board President