PRESIDENT CATHERINE MOORE’S FOUNDER’S DAY MESSAGE
To MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF IODE
TARGET 2010…and beyond

It’s a privilege to celebrate working with you as we begin this our 12th decade together in IODE.

One hundred and ten years ago at the dawn of the twentieth century, Margaret Polson Murray saw the establishment of IODE as an organization based on patriotism, loyalty and service. Over our long history, when tremendous changes have taken place in the world, many thousands of IODE women and children have purposefully served Canadians and citizens of the world in times of great need. As we look at and beyond 2010, IODE contributions to Canada and Canadians continue to anticipate the needs seen in local communities as well as in our larger society. The possibilities are numerous and the opportunity to make a significant difference is ever present. IODE’s historic capacity to adapt in response to our changing world has never been more essential.

In the coming years, traditional IODE programs directed to Education, Services and Citizenship will blend both with immediate world-wide issues and national concerns as they’re identified by IODE members who will move with alacrity to assist in meaningful ways.

In 1975 May C. Kertland wrote about the third twenty-five years in IODE history. Her assessment is as valid today, a full 35 years later, as it was then. She wrote:

The record of IODE is a proud one. In the days when our contribution was so necessary, we were never found wanting, but today governments are taking over work commenced by volunteer organizations. They are becoming increasingly conscious of human needs and of the necessity for higher education on both the academic and vocational levels. Consequently, chapters are sometimes obliged to see new channels for their services and funds. We firmly believe, however, that there is still a place for our members as volunteers and for our monetary assistance in areas beyond the fringe of governmental responsibility and financial capacity. (Kertland, 1975, 82)

More recently, IODE has stressed flexibility in choice of programs locally and provincially. This is evident in the decision-making strategy for TARGET 2010… and beyond which was determined in consultation with all members.

The National Officers and the 110th Anniversary Committee, consisting of members across Canada developed a plan for TARGET 2010… and beyond that encourages chapters to share time, talent and funds in this anniversary year and over the next decade in their provinces and local communities. Efforts are directed to one of: children and youth; poverty and homelessness; seniors. Each focus offers many possibilities for action. As I talk with members across Canada and learn of enthusiastic chapter plans, I am invigorated and excited to hear about how these projects begin to develop over the course of the next few months. Together we can accomplish so much!

As George Bernard Shaw wrote, "The possibilities are numerous once we decide to act and not react." As IODE members have for 110 years, members today demonstrate through their actions a readiness to act effectively, directly and efficiently. IODE women look for possibilities and engage in them where others might only see problems. Together we can continue to make the very significant difference envisioned by Margaret Polson Murray 110 years ago.

I am eager to celebrate this year’s significant milestone with you.

Warm personal regards,

SUPPORT OUR TROOPS

These photos are included in the 2009 IODE Calendar. To view further photos, please visit www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca.

THE SNOWBIRDS

REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY
AT BEECHWOOD MILITARY CEMETERY

CHRISTMAS DINNER, KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN