I must admit, I'm struggling to believe that 2016 is actually here.  It feels like only yesterday I was celebrating Gasparilla 2015, getting ready for Rays' Spring Training and taking pictures of my son, Corey, starting his first day in 7th grade.  

My point is that time flies and if we aren't careful, time can quickly get away from us.  Yet, that's the great thing about starting a new year. The change in date forces us to realize that time is precious, and we need to take advantage of this valuable commodity.  At the start of a new year, I think it is important for both individuals and organizations to pause and take a look at where we are and where we would like to be.

I've only been with the Crisis Center for a handful of months, but I know 2015 was a significant year for the organization and much was accomplished. For example:

• 2-1-1 answered over 95,000 calls from people requesting help
• Corbett Trauma Center conducted over 7,600 trauma therapy sessions
• Over 1,600 children received anti-bullying education and mentoring services
• Sexual Assault Services performed over 350 forensic exams to collect evidence for FDLE Rape Kits
• TransCare transported over 36,000 patients in need of medical attention

This year, the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay will continue to provide the same great services to the community as it did in 2015.  We also plan to launch new programs such as Green Dot training - an innovative approach to violence prevention that give bystanders tools so they can intervene to prevent violence - and Healthy Transitions, a partnership with Success 4 Kids & Families designed to help older teens and young adults access mental health services utilizing new, evidence-based approaches.  

I will also be working with the Board of Directors and staff to develop the Crisis Center's 5 year strategic plan. This document will help guide the organization's leadership, focus and scope of work so we can continue to implement our mission:  To ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone.

As always, thank you for your past and future support of the Crisis Center!  Your dedication to the organization is helping make our community a happier and healthier place to live.   

Happy New Year!
Clara