EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

 In March, our Board of Management approved a policy which takes a pro-active approach to the prevention of anaphylaxis.  Procedures have been developed for dealing with Peanut Club, March Break and summer day camp program participants who have registered severe allergies to such things as some foods, and bee/wasp bites.  While children in the care of parents and caregivers rely on those adults to be diligent about what they ingest, for the most part, the Centre will be declared a “nut-free zone”.  Exception to that will be at special events where baking is donated – craft markets, older adult teas, etc.  Please try to respect this policy by not coming into the Centre with food and snacks which may contain peanuts or other nut products. Thank you for your co-operation.

 The next time you are in the Centre, check out our new inventory of fundraising merchandise.  It’s very eclectic.  We have gifts for newborns, baby and toddler toys, bath gift sets, stationery sets. Reversible summer sun hats, two sizes of fabulous tote bags and more!  All are reasonably priced; make terrific gifts and the proceeds support our programs and services.

 I am happy to report on yet another successful year for our Income Tax Clinic.  We completed returns both electronically and manually for 855 people and families of modest means.  Appointments were booked and returns were completed thanks to the efforts of 46 volunteers who contributed over 960 hours of their time to help others.  These terrific volunteers, together with all of our many Centre volunteers will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 24^th at 7:00 p.m.  I hope you will join us for some entertainment and refreshments as we recognize these very special people who contribute tirelessly to the social fabric of this community.  (Please RSVP to the front desk at 416-392-0511)  See you there!

 Once again, CECC is participating in the Annual Toronto 5K Challenge on Sunday, June 8^th.  I hope you will join us in the walk or support your Centre by making a pledge at the front desk.  Sponsor a walker and you will receive a tax receipt for donations of $10.00 or more.  The proceeds raised will be applied to the purchase of a defibrillator and training for the staff to use it.  It could save someone’s life!  Please support us.

 Our 6^th Annual Health and Beauty Day on June 12^th is a great opportunity to speak with local health and wellness practitioners, see demonstrations, pick up free samples and useful information, and join us at the “In the Pink Café” for lunch or a nutritious snack.  Each year it gets bigger and better.  I hope to see you there.

 Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for our Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, June 24^th at 6:30 p.m.  We will have a brief business meeting to approve the 2007 audited financial statements and elect Board of Management members.  The Annual Volunteer Appreciation event will follow at 7:00 p.m.  Join us, won’t you?

 Again this summer we will be having weekly sidewalk sales at the front of the building, weather permitting.  Call Mary at 416-392-0511, ext 233 if you would like to volunteer to help.  We will feature merchandise from our Fundraising Boutique, together with “specials”.  Please stop by and say hello.  And don’t forget our pop and snacks that are available at the Reception Desk for 75 cents.  On a hot day, a cold bottle of water hits the spot!

 Summer in Toronto can be as busy or laid-back as you like.  I hope you will include CECC in your summer plans. 

 Have a safe and happy summer!

 Susan Kee

Executive Director