Dear CalSAC Community,
Happy New Year! 2018 is a special year for me, as it marks my 10th year at CalSAC. Recently I’ve been reflecting on the organization’s incredible journey since 2008. My first couple of years at CalSAC were tumultuous: with the economic downturn hitting hard and a range of other external and internal factors, the organization was struggling to keep its doors open. We weren't sure CalSAC would make it another 10 years.
Now, looking forward to 2018, I am filled with gratitude. CalSAC is in a stronger financial position and our programs are thriving. We just launched a new brand and website and together raised more than $100,000 in individual donations in 2017 to support CalSAC’s transformative programs. CalSAC has made an incredible turnaround because of people like you who believed in what was possible – for the organization, for the professionals we serve and for young people across the state. I hope you'll take some time to enjoy our recently published Anniversary Report, to explore all that we've accomplished together.
2018 marks a significant new chapter for CalSAC. The organization has adopted a bold vision and strategic direction to strengthen our financial durability, deepen evaluation and impact measurement, and broaden awareness of the organization as a trusted change agent and capacity builder.
Together by 2021, we will advance CalSAC as an organization that is:
- The hub of a strong out-of-school time professional identity and community;
- An innovative provider of leadership and professional development;
- A catalyst for systems change through grassroots advocacy;
- A leader and model in the field for racial, economic, and educational equity; and
- A nationally recognized organization and valued partner
When I look at CalSAC’s accomplishments and goals, I am reminded of you – the individuals who are the fabric of this incredible organization and the future that we are all striving toward together. I am honored to be part of it and emboldened to continue to build the field – expanding our reach, deepening our impact and elevating our collective power for California’s children and youth.
In Solidarity,
Ruth Obel-Jorgensen
Executive Director