SENIORS OUTREACH: SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
We have big changes to announce about new leadership at Seniors Outreach & Resource Centre, but first, we wanted to take the opportunity to thank our outgoing Executive Director, Vi Sorenson, for her incredible contributions to the organization.
After 24 years with the organization, Vi has decided to retire. Vi began working at Seniors Outreach as a part-time volunteer coordinator after she graduated from University of Victoria with a social worker degree in 1988. She was the only staff member of the organization at the time and ‘volunteer visiting’ was the only program. After just a few short years the organization was expanding its services and Vi was promoted to the Executive Director position. Currently, Seniors Outreach has 7 full-time employees and 69 volunteers who offer several important programs such as Better at Home, Seniors Centre Without Walls, Social Prescribing, Seniors Housing Information & Navigation Ease and more.
Vi plans to enjoy some travel and downtime. She also plans to continue to stay involved with the work she loves in the not-for-profit sector through contract work and board membership.
“On behalf of the staff, volunteers, donors and seniors, the Board of Directors thank Vi Sorenson for her leadership to Seniors Outreach,” said Brenda Josephs, Board Chair. “Vi has been an integral part of the organization for many years, working tirelessly to make sure that seniors get the support they need. We’re grateful for her commitment and dedication, which helped us expand our services for older adults.”
The Board of Directors is pleased to confirm that after a thorough search process, Ian Gerbrandt has accepted the position of Executive Director and joined Seniors Outreach in August. Ian has worked in social services for the past 25 years supporting children, youth, families, and seniors. “Ian believes strongly in the power of collaboration, and he brings extensive experience with partnerships and impactful social services. We look forward to working with him to ensure a vibrant organization and services.”
Ian’s work includes leadership roles in fund development and managing seniors’ services, such as Better At Home, social prescribing, caregiver supports, information & referral, collective impact, social housing, and other programs. Ian and his family live in Kelowna and have called the Okanagan home for 9 years since moving from Winnipeg, Manitoba.
“For 35 years, Seniors Outreach has been helping our oldest community members improve their connections, independence and quality of life. I am keen to further vital social services with our dedicated staff, volunteers, and partners,” said Ian. “I encourage people to reach out to me to ask questions, share ideas and get involved with the valuable programs offered through the Centre.”