Dear Editor,
Over the past three weeks, we have welcomed over 80 emerging leaders in the social services over to Bowen Island, where they trained together for five days to kick off a ten-month leadership learning program. This is the eighth such cohort we have welcomed to Bowen. These leaders are engaged in transforming the leading edges of community, child and family services in BC through agencies, organizations and government and Bowen is a big part of their experience as they begin and end their learning with five day residencies on our island.
While they are here they are treated to the hospitality and care of this community. From the accommodations at the Bowen Island Lodge and the Lodge at the Old Dorm, to the excellent catering and service provided by Mio, Joan, Darryl and Joanne from The Snug and the brilliant evenings hosted at Rustique and The Bowen Island Pub, our visitors get to witness a community that cares for each other and hosts beautifully. They leave laden with chocolates and yoga clothing and good wine and African fabrics. Their experience of Bowen deeply informs their practice of building caring communities, because they feel it when they are here.
So this is our thanks to all of you who helped welcome and host our visitors, whether you are a business owner, Snug Point neighbours, or just a friendly presence. Our learners consistently express their appreciation for the beauty of the land, the relaxed nature of our setting, the authenticity of the village, and how they are welcomed and hosted by locals. We have three more cohorts arriving here this year. Bowen plays a huge role in the success of this program and we wanted you to know that we couldn’t do it without you!
Thanks!
Chris Corrigan
