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Robin Carlson
Our mission statement should encompass our dreams and aspirations for Vantage. It should define our organization and set out our values and goals clearly. It must identify the types of services, those we serve and in what geographical location those services are delivered. Believing in the saying, “the only certainty is change," the Board of Directors set the wheels in motion to develop a new mission statement for our organization.
On January 17, 2000 at the beautiful Mercy Center in Madison, Board Members and Administrators of Vantage Group gathered to craft our mission statement. Led by a professional facilitator, the group marched through an exhausting but exhilarating process. The day began with introductions of participants and oral exercises designed to promote an open atmosphere for the day’s work. During the event, the group reviewed where Vantage Group has been, our present situation and our promise for the future! The experience left a lasting impression on this member. One impression was especially clear; everyone dreamed the agency would break all barriers by providing the best possible services!
The day lasted eight hours long. Throughout the process stories were shared, opinions were given and dreams were told. The bulk of the work was done, but the language needed to be refined. A volunteer committee met several times in order to accomplish our goal. The committee consisted of: Roy K. Jetter, Sam Teitelman, Robin Carlson, Emily Cosenza, and Patricia Heavren.
It was an honor to participate in this rewarding process that was full of hopes and dreams. Due to the tireless efforts of the volunteer-based Board of Directors, and dedicated Vantage staff, a dream became a reality that cold day in Madison. Today Vantage Group continues our tradition of excellence in providing life enhancing services. Through values-based staff development, collaborative efforts, community enrichment programs, and individualized services, the agency continues to be a forerunner in the field of human services.
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