December marks the month of the year that Rainbows hosts our Annual Meetings for both Rainbows United, Inc. and the Rainbows United Charitable Foundation. It is a time for us to review what occurred during Fiscal Year 2015. It is also a time for us to recognize some of the many individuals and companies who have made this journey with us. I am pleased to announce that Board Members Steve Cox, Lisa Farris, Pete McKernan, and Meredith Olson have renewed their terms to serve another three years on Rainbows Board. Janeen Hughes has joined the RUCF Board. Sadly Dan Drake is leaving due to the many work commitments he has but we will not let him get too far from us. Dan has shared his business wisdom and experience to help us thrive. Meredith Olson steps aside as Chair of Rainbows Board as Dr. Josh Umbehr takes on the role of Chair. Meredith has provided powerful leadership in her mild manner style. We love her enthusiasm about Rainbows’ services and are so pleased she remains on the Board as Past Chair.
Rainbows also recognized three major partners who have brought value to the organization. Armstrong Chamberlin has been a faithful Blarney Breakfast design and graphics partner. From posters, to placemats, to table tents, to signage and everything else associated with this event, they have provided their creative genius and professionalism pro-bono. In addition, James Schisler, Director of Interactive Services is a valued member of Rainbows’ Communications Committee. Frank Seitz along with his dedicated staff at Derby Recreational Center and community volunteers have successfully put on the CJ Memorial Golf Tournament for 9 years. The golf tournament is done in memory of Frank’s son C.J. who was served by Rainbows, The ARC of Sedgwick County, Ketch, and Derby Free Spirits. While C.J. passed away in 2006, his memory lives on through his father and this golf tournament. What a wonderful tribute to him!
Rainbows is honored to partner with WSU’s Community Engagement Institute. Heading up the ImpACT Center: Innovation Mobilization of People to ACT is Teresa Strausz. Teresa has been instrumental in helping Rainbows’ partnership with the AmeriCorps VISTA program. Also honored at the event was Rainbows’ Prism award winner Selena Phillips, Case Records Assistant. Selena was honored for exemplifying the Guiding Principles and her work over the last 23 years. As I reflect on the year, the people who guide our solid foundation and the partners who come alongside us, I look forward to the coming year and all we will accomplish together. Deb Voth, President
