Every journey has a beginning and an ending. What matters most is what happens along the way.
My tenure here began twenty years ago in June of 2005 and comes to a close this December for more golf and time with grandkids. Without question, working for this organization has been the most fun, challenging, and rewarding years of my career.
About two-thirds of that time I was involved with relational development, which allowed me to accumulate cherished relationships with people of all stripes impacted by ALS. At the center is the patient, of course, but surrounding that individual is a constellation of love and support from family and friends. Working for an organization that becomes part of that caring constellation has been an immense privilege.
Like any journey, sometimes there are bumps in the road, even forks. I was appointed to be Executive Director in mid-January of 2020 β seven weeks before COVID-19 turned the world upside down. But we got through it thanks to wise guidance from a stellar Board of Directors, financial support from generous contributors, and the tireless efforts of an extraordinarily talented staff.
Then, in 2023, our organization made a significant change to prioritize the needs of local ALS families, leaving a national organization that was undergoing restructuring. Today, we are one of fifteen members of ALS United. As ALS United Mid-Atlantic, we proudly serve people living with ALS and their families in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
And so, the journey of this amazing organization continues under the capable leadership of Tony Heyl. Tony has been with us since 2011, leading our state and federal advocacy initiatives and increasing awareness of ALS in our communities. Before departing permanently, I plan to work with Tony and others next year on a project basis to organize a 50th Anniversary Campaign. Stay tuned.
Finally, thanks to all of you for being part of my journey. My life has been deeply enriched serving the ALS community. Itβs been an honor, and my heart truly overflows with gratitude.
Jeff Cline
Executive Director