Friend of JCDS chairman John Holt and Overland Park Mayor and exiting board member, Carl Gerlach
It was our final agenda item of a busy summer meeting and it was bittersweet.
In 1990, a group of supporters gathered around a table, each tossing in a dollar or two. And so began what we know today as "Friends of JCDS".
One of those original members has stayed on our Friends board, allowed by our by-laws because he's a charter member. Always quick with a suggestion, or idea, or joke, he's been a solid supporter.
From his role as a charter member, to now mayor of Overland Park, Carl Gerlach has been a key player in the growth of Friend's fundraising, friendraising, and certainly its community presence. After two decades on the Friend's board, Mayor Gerlach graciously decided to step aside to make room for some fresh energy and ideas. He promised, as we awarded him the traditional farewell plaque (with beautiful JCDS consumer art), to stay engaged and available. We will miss him, but know he will indeed be there to guide us if we need him, whether providing a contact, or just a word of advice.
Thank you Mr. Mayor. You've made life for consumers and staff at JCDS more rewarding, and you've made a number of new "friends" on our Friend's board, including me. I'll always treasure that and know I'm not alone in my sentiments.
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No summer vacation for our board, staff, and supporters....from an Mixed Martial Arts Fundraiser at Outlaw Cigar in Overland Park, to renovations on House #11, to a fantastic JCDS Night at the Barn Players presentation of "The Boys Next Door", it's been a busy season. Work is already starting on next spring's Restyle Runway, and in September, we'll host an open house for our newest home, House #11! Whew!
Oh yes, the Spring Fling proved to be a fun event on May 27th, and mark your calendars for September 23rd, for a very special Dorothy K. Dorfman Picnic. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the festive event!
Our committees have been hard at work, and even as we say goodbye to Mayor Gerlach, we welcome a new board member, Michelle Gressel. Great to have you Michelle!
Know that your "Friends of JCDS" board is active and engaged, and ready to serve. Please let us know if you have any concerns or questions. That's what "Friends" are for! Have a great summer!
John Holt
President, Friends of JCDS
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