Building on Laguna Shanti Struggles
The board of directors of Laguna Shanti would like all to know that Shanti is alive and well. Over the last couple of months, we have been diligent in determining and implementing fund development strategies, not only short term, but long term, to ensure the existence of Laguna Shanti.
The staff, volunteers, concerned citizens and board are committed to the continued success of Shanti’s providing needed services, but more importantly serving the Orange County HIV community. Part of the success in serving Orange County comes from the collaboration of Shanti and other much-needed AIDS agencies in the county. We feel that we walk arm in arm with these agencies as we go forward to serve and help those living with AIDS and their support network.
The fact that Laguna Shanti has struggled this year has brought several blessings in disguise. It has allowed us to bring a new executive director on board, Judith Doyle. With Judith’s knowledge, organizational and administrative skills and compassion, Shanti will excel to new heights. Judith’s leadership has produced clean management, revitalized programs, increased Shanti community participation, a stronger image of viable service, and a move into the real world of social services’ corporate complexities. The new board of directors is taking an aggressive stance to assure the future of Laguna Shanti.
We would like to thank all those who have stepped forward this year and put their commitment on the line for Shanti. Their warmth and hard work have been felt and recognized. With the volunteers’ commitment, and the generous dollars donated by individuals, we will survive to be here to give comfort, courage and companionship to persons affected by HIV and other life-threatening illnesses.
CRAIG FLORENCE, President, Board of Directors, Laguna Shanti
After initially denying a grant request, AIDS Walk Orange County has decided to give $10,000 to help fund Laguna Shanti. In addition, Irvine Health Foundation offered $15,000. Money also has come in from the community.