President’s Message

Leadership and Teamwork

Over the years I have witnessed numerable sightings of Canada geese flying in V formation over west county. Each sighting reminds me of the worthy values of working as a team, humane behavior towards each other and the importance of wise leadership. The qualities of Vformation flights of these birds are reflected in Connections and our members.

When geese migrate they fly in V formation to reduce wind resistance which allows the flock to add seventy percent greater flying range than if each bird flew alone. At Connections we work as a group holding a common direction to attain our goals while trusting and encouraging each other. Working as a team means we can accomplish more by pooling our ideas and resources.

Another characteristic of Canada geese is that they exhibit humane behavior towards each other. If one goose drops to the ground when hurt or sick two colleagues stay with the bird until it is becomes healthier or dies. Connections members display this fine trait in community service work and by taking care of members when hit by difficult times or illness. These characteristics show that our group is built on strong friendship and a genuine concern for the well being for all. When flying in formation geese take turns at leading the flock: as one goose tires another relieves it. At Connections our president has a one-year term and board members a two-year term. Our leaders rotate, empower, delegate and even step down when it is in the best interest of our group. Further, as one board member or president steps down she ensures that her replacement is well trained has the tools necessary to have a smooth succession process.As I retire from the presidency I want to thank each of you for your support and to wish the new president and upcoming board a safe journey in true V formation.

In gratitude,

Heather Hendrickson

President, Connections