"A future with hope … in a year of transition”

A Message from the Schizophrenia Society of Canada's president, Dr. Pam Forsythe

The Schizophrenia Society of Canada (SCC) Board of Directors realizes that the closure of the SSC office in Markham, Ontario and the ongoing changes in leadership and staff represent a significant transition for the Society. While we believe this transition period will better position the organization for optimal growth and success, we wish to recognize and address the questions that these changes may have generated among some of our stakeholders, including the members of the Schizophrenia Society of Canada.

It is understandable that our members, donors, sponsors and supporters would have questions about what these changes mean for the organization, for their donations, for the programs and projects they support, etc.

To that end, we have developed some key messages that we hope provide clear and consistent information that:

• Informs our members and stakeholders about the changes underway within the organization.
• Maintains the confidence and support of our stakeholders throughout this transitional period.
• Ensures representatives of the organization are speaking with the same voice.
• Reinforces our commitment to our mission statement and to individuals and families affected by schizophrenia and psychosis.
  

The questions to be addressed below are:

1. When will the SSC be hiring a permanent CEO?
2. Where and when will the SSC open a new office?
3. How can I reach the SSC?
4. There have been a lot of leadership and staff changes over the past few months. Why? What does it mean for the organization? Are there more changes to come?
5. Will you continue to fundraise and offer the same materials, programs and events?
6. What happens to the programs that are currently being run / funded?
7. With the virtual office in Winnipeg and the eventual move to Ottawa, does that mean you won’t be doing work in areas of research and education?
8. The SSC seems to focusing on individuals and not on families. Why?
9. There’s been more and more emphasis on recovery. What is recovery and does it take the place of treatment? What is the SSC’s stand?
   

Should you have any questions about the information below, please contact me at info@schizophrenia.ca.

Sincerely,

Dr. Pam Forsythe, President
Schizophrenia Society of Canada

For the entire text of this letter, click here.