A small non-profit support and educational program for breast cancer survivors that has assisted 3,500 women and expanded its program delivery fifteen-fold since it began thirteen years ago is a testament to the power of a grassroots-based volunteer structure that continues to set a standard for a positive impact on the lives of those it serves.
Casting for Recovery (CFR), whose motto is "To Fish Is To Hope", is entering its thirteenth year and is making the transition to the next generation of leadership as the fly rod is passed from the original Executive Director Seline Skoug to Lori Simon, who joins CFR as Executive Director from service as Montana State Director of the "grandfather" of grassroots-based organizations, the March of Dimes.
"I'm proud to welcome Lori on board at the completion of our best year ever. We delivered 37 retreat programs in 28 states in 2008, we harnessed the passion and organizational skills of 1,000 volunteers, and we set new records not only for engaging the generosity of more donors and national sponsors than ever, but in increasing the percentage of our funding that goes directly to program delivery.", outgoing Executive Director Seline Skoug commented. "The last ten years has been an incredible journey, and I'm proud to be "passing the fly rod" on at this time, knowing that I'm able to move on to new ventures while leaving a strong organization that has brought new hope and healing to 3,500 women-one by one-in experienced hands. Change is always challenging, yet as CFR has always been unique in its ability to work intelligently and react capably to each new demand on its resources, I'm confident that we've set the foundation for healthy growth in the years to come. "
Lori Simon adds "I'm thrilled to be able to work with Seline during this transition as we move to the next stage in delivering our services to women. The incredible power of volunteers that Casting for Recovery is able to engage is one of the major reasons I was attracted to this organization. CFR's record of organic growth is based on a mindful attention to quality and mission. This, as well as the skills and enthusiasm that our dedicated staff and volunteers bring to us, makes me particularly confident that even during these challenging times our generous donors, who share a passion for our mission, will help us meet the continued high demand for our life-changing program."
