"I remember being at a Meg Wheatley presentation in Vancouver with other YGHF steering committee members and feeling "called" to become a more integral part of YGHF by applying to be a staff member.
I remember the energy and synergy of the steering committee and all the wonderful contributions of members who have since moved on but continue to spread the word.
And every day at "work" I notice and feel the frission of new friendships and connections developing."
- Janice McTaggart
"For me being part the of the Tyze team that developed and delivers the software the memorable moment for me was:
Being invited to Peni's apartment to show Peni,Pat & Janice how to use YGHF Tyze site. All of the team was a little apprehensive about learning the software but each person laughed and enjoyed the process. The wonderful Peni served us coffee and cookies and set the stage for hospitality that symbolizes YGHF.
I am so proud of each of you as you Care, Connect & Contribute to creating a "Good Life" for folks in your community and feel truly blessed to have been and be part of your site."
- Tim Ames, Tyze Personal Networks
"Having been attending YGHF since its beginning, I have any memorable moments. Some that come to mind, include our first launch at the Baluga Bar and Grill on the Fraser Highway. We had a fabulous turnout, amazing food and entertainment and the finalists from the community Photo contest (photos of Friends) were announced and congratulated. It was such a wonderful event celebrating our new initiative. The photos of all kinds of friendships were posted around the room and were such a beautiful illustration of our hopes and dreams for YGHF.
Another moment occurred when the steering committee met at Donalda's home where we were surrounded by her Christmas Angels as we worked on our first rendition of our PATH. The warmth and wisdom shared in that setting as we created our vision for YGHF was so inspiring. We come from so many different life experiences and that just adds to the richness of our shared commitment to YGHF.
I have spent many hours with Bonnie at her dining room table creating YGHF photo albums and enjoying her energy and expertise as we sort and place photos of all the many events and gatherings and connections that occur with YGHF participants on a regular basis.
There are many more "moments", but one final one happened recently when I joined a gathering at Choo Choo's. About a dozen YGHF participants and staff were creating a vision of how they wanted to be involved at YGHF. The enthusiasm, commitment and wisdom around the table was so inspiring and gratifying. I could really see how our vision for "reducing loneliness and enhancing belonging" was actually making a difference in the lives of these folks."
- Joan Morris
"I have been part of the steering committee since very early days. I remember the time, energy, and the mix of fear and joy around the table as we were planning towards our first conference. And I remember the wonder of seeing all those people gathered in one place to talk about the importance of friendship and belonging.
I also remember a steering committee meeting when several of us were grieving. We discovered that unbeknownst to us, we were all friends of the same woman, Judy, who had died unexpectedly. That shared grief strengthened bonds between us."
