A LETTER FROM THE HWVT BOARD CHAIR

It is my honor to present to you this copy of Healing Winds Vermont’s Five-Year Annual Report.

The report summarizes the highlights from Fiscal Years 2015-2019, from our humble beginnings to the cusp of our future. These have been pivotal years for the organization. Healing Winds focused efforts on our core mission, which provides cancer patients a free sailing excursion on Lake Champlain to experience the therapeutic benefits of the sun, wind, and water while surrounded by fresh air, beautiful vistas, and the people who love them.

As we move forward, the Directors and staff at Healing Winds are committed to professionalism throughout the organization. Our commitment is to create and maintain strong foundations for our sailing program, measure internal effectiveness and external impact, and focus on capacity building to ensure that Healing Winds Vermont is sustainable as we sail into the future. We are committed to having a vital, positive impact within our community and in the lives of those who have cancer.

The sheer number of individuals receiving care for all forms of cancer in local facilities, coupled with the data linking cancer and depression, confirms a great need for the stress-reducing, immunity-building services that Healing Winds provides.

Our report presents the history of our initial years with appropriate financial data and a compilation of financial data from 2018-2019. Most importantly, we give you a clear picture of Healing Winds’ framework, where we are and where we are heading. We hope this information will help you assess the effectiveness and responsibilities involved with the organization. As always, we need more volunteers and active board members. As you read the report, think of areas where you might want to become involved. We have many areas that need more attention and time.

On behalf of the entire Healing Winds Vermont staff and board members, I would like to thank you for your support. Your support and positive feedback are the wind in our sails, which will make Healing Winds Vermont a sustainable organization.

Sincerely yours,
Adele Forbes, President
Healing Winds Vermont