A New Year’s Valentine to CV!

Friday marks two years for me in this job, and I want to take this time to thank you for welcoming me into this community. Some of you might know that I was not new to CV. I was a field representative in the California legislature for six years, and I knew many of the key players in this community. But presenting a certificate at a grand opening or school event doesn’t really let you know the personality of a community the way being an executive director of a high profile non-profit does.

So now that I’ve spent time with boots on the ground, here’s my take on CV.

This is a hard-working, close-knit, action-oriented matriarchal community. When there’s a problem or a gap in service or a reason to celebrate, this community is on it! Schools thrive and enjoy the support of their PTAs. The business community provides many social events. Government on all levels is responsive. And non-profits are revered. When there are divisions due to cultural norms, people strive to close divides. It’s like Mayberry, but with a multicultural twist.

Members of my board of directors care deeply about this community.  Some have prior experience serving on non-profit boards; others had none.  These people bring a variety of skills, experience and opinions, and they work hard to make society better. All now know the truth of the adage: “A camel is a racehorse designed by a committee.” To me, they are brave! They chose to identify themselves with the issue of drugs and alcohol use by children – problems many deny, ignore or dismiss.

Please join them as we move ahead. We will continue to host parent workshops, community forums and special talks about topics of interest to you. Young people have formed a group, bringing us to a closer understanding of what’s going on with them. We will continue to advocate for policy changes. As I remind you often, there’s a place for you in CV Alliance!

A toast to a healthy, happy, prosperous, secure 2014!

Suzy Jacobs is the executive director of the Crescenta Valley Alliance. You can reach her at
suzy@cvdapc.org.

  Suzy JACOBS