GAŖEZERA ZIŅAS - Garezers

Dear Friends,Thank you for a successful 2012 season! I would like to thank our administration, all of the volunteers whodonated their time, energy and resources and our staff, including program leaders, counselors, teachers,lifeguards, groundskeepers and kitchen staff. I would especially like to thank our shareholders for theircontinued support and donors for their wonderful contributions this past year.In 2012 we said farewell to several friends of Garezers, including our indefatigable cofounder Rev. VilisVarsbergs, dedicated former Executive Director Velta Berzkalns and generous benefactor Augusts Grasis. Ourcommunity is grateful to these individuals for their vision and courage in contributing to the success ofGarezers.I would like to thank each and every one of our board members for their dedication and hard work. Last yearKarina Hazners, Janis Strautnieks and Toms Trautmanis ended their terms, and we welcomed new membersKarlis Antons, Karlis Lenss and Peteris Skrodelis. We are continuing to work enthusiastically to strengthenGarezers.In 2012 the board established a written hierarchy of the board and administration, including there-implementation of an executive committee. In addition we crafted a strategic plan reflecting Garezers’mission. The strategic vision is made up of five components: faith and worship, summer programs,destination and events, operations, financial support. This plan was accepted by the board and administration,and presented to the shareholders and community as the guide to our path forward. Today, we are operatingwith five core working groups reflecting this vision and implementing its objectives. You can view thecomplete plan at www.garezers.org, and it will be printed in the next issue of Gaŗezera ziņas.The LIV (”Latvian Identity Venture”) program was established to serve children and families with variedLatvian language skills. Its inaugural event was a week-long Sports camp, conducted in both Latvian andEnglish. This was our first foray into developing a comprehensive experience for the entire Garezerscommunity. The Sports camp program was such a success that we expect increased attendance this comingseason.Our acquisition of part of the Atbalsis property presents a wonderful opportunity for Garezers’ futuredevelopment. It has not only expanded Garezers’ geographic area, but will help to solidify and integrate ourLatvian community. The board and administration are working closely with the management of Atbalsis toidentify opportunities for increased collaboration.During the December 2012 budget meeting, the board approved a balanced 2013 budget. We aregrateful to all of the organizations that provide financial aid for campers and students to attend Garezersprograms. Among these are Daugavas Vanagi, ALA (American Latvian Association), and a variety of churchesand other organizations. As a non-profit organization that relies a great deal on donations, we recognize theimportance of keeping our costs in line with our variable income. We must continue to develop fundraisingprograms, and to encourage our Latvian community to include Garezers in their donation considerations andestate planning.We are fortunate to have such a proud culture. Come join us this year and for many years to come in thejourney that is Garezers! Thanks, and we look forward to seeing you at Garezers!Imants EjupsGarezers board President4