This is my first year as Pernet’s Board Chair and I am honored to work with such a devoted staff and Board. As I am sure you know, economic times have been very difficult and the Agency has had to cope with numerous cut-backs in state funding as well as a decline in private grants and donations. However, throughout these difficult times, we have continued to deliver services to those who depend on us. This would not be possible without the unwavering commitment and sacrifices of our staff and volunteers. They are an extraordinary group of professionals! Additionally, our families have benefited greatly from those of you who have been able to support us in these difficult times. We and our families are extremely grateful.

The theme of this year’s Annual Report is “In each of us, there is a little of all of us”. One example of our work in this area is the programs we have for fathers. A lot of our clients did not have fathers in their lives to help guide their development as responsible members of society. Our coordinated programs for fathers address this issue from several directions and are yielding impressive results. Through these counseling and mentoring programs we have re-introduced father figures into a large number of our client families. In this past year, 175 fathers have participated in our programs and have reported that they have acquired new skills to help co-parent their children.

Space does not permit me to cite other examples of our work in the community. You will find information on this work throughout these pages. Our goal is to strengthen the family unit and despite the uncertain economic times that we are all dealing with, Pernet is like “The Little Engine That Could” – we think we can, we think we can. We intend to be there for those who need our help.

John McCabe
Chairman

“Strengthening Families”- that is the mission of Pernet Family Health Service and a passion of mine since I was a child. All families need support, but many are luckier than others. We, at Pernet, seek out the families than need support, whether it is food, infant formula and diapers, or the expertise of staff that can help with teaching infant development, parenting skills, medical care or just advice on where to go for other services.

The accepting, non-judgmental attitudes of our staff and volunteers have made Pernet a haven for families in need of support and teaching. It is clear that the staff believe in the mission of Pernet. The turnover rate for staff and volunteers is exceptionally low. This shows their commitment to families. Again, the phrase, “In each of us, there is a little of all of us” keeps us focused on the fact that we are all one family and all in this life together.

Thank you all for your support of our mission and your continued dedication to the families in need of our help.

Sincerely,

Sheilah Dooley
Executive Director