ICB News - From the Desk of the Executive Director

Message from the Executive Director
Jessica Hayes

Greetings to all Members . . . .

As of July 1, 2009 I assumed the duties of Executive Director of your organization. Many of you have sent emails, cards or phoned in your well wishes and I’d like to take a moment to say thank you. For those of you who may be new to the field, I have been with IAODAPCA for 12 years; starting as the Fiscal Manager and moving into the Assistant Director position in 2002. When I started with the organization I handled the money and finances until my passion for the field was ignited by you, the members, with your dedication and commitment to those who are in need of the services you provide. The Board of Directors, Bill Johnson and I began a succession plan six years ago to make the transition as seamless as possible for the organization. Little did we know, when the time came to complete the succession plan, the Sate of Illinois would be in the worst financial shape of our time. Timing, they say, is everything. My first few days as the Executive Director were spent at rallies and vigils in support of the members of IAODAPCA who provide services and persons who receive services across the State of Illinois. The staff of IAODAPCA also attended rallies and vigils. Their dedication to this field unwavering!

Without hesitation, I can assure each and every member, the IAODAPCA staff will do everything within their ability to work with you to maintain your credentials in spite of facility closings and layoffs. We have policies and procedures in place to handle special circumstances. I urge you to contact the IAODAPCA office prior to your expiration date to discuss options for maintaining your credential during these times of budget crisis.

At the time this newsletter is available the CAADC granting of equivalency will have reached the half-way mark. The CAADC granting of equivalency (GOE) will end September 30, 2009 with no exceptions. To qualify for the credential you must have held, and be in good standing with, an IAODAPCA counselor credential (CADC, CRADC, CSADC or CAADC) for a minimum of ten years AND meet all other requirements set forth in the granting of equivalency application. Please see the Download Your Forms section of our website for full details.

I also ask that you watch your mailboxes for an announcement regarding IAODAPCA’s proposed bylaw changes. Bylaw changes that you, the members, are called upon to ratify. Our current bylaws are several years old and have recently been updated and reviewed by the board of directors. The announcement will outline the procedure for voting and provide a link to our website to view the proposed bylaws.

As I close, a few specific words of thanks are in order. First, I would like to thank the staff of IAODAPCA for their dedication to the members. Although small in numbers, the IAODAPCA staff remains tireless in their efforts to provide the best customer service! Second, I would like to thank the board of directors for their support and encouragement as I assume the role of Executive Director. I am in awe of the vast years of experience and knowledge they bring to the board meetings and look forward to working together to continue IAODAPCA’s mission in these very tumultuous times. And last, but most certainly not least, I would like to thank Bill Johnson, Chief Executive Officer, for his wisdom and mentorship over the past 12 years. Words cannot fully express my appreciation for Bill’s support, but for now they will have to do, thank you, Bill.

Sincerely
Jessica Hayes, Executive Director

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Message from the Executive Director Jessica Hayes

Greetings to all Members . . . .

Message from the Executive Director
Jessica Hayes