After nine years as the executive director of Deltassist, Doug Sabourin will be stepping down and heading into retirement this fall.
"I have very much enjoyed my time working with and for the people of Delta," says Sabourin. "Every day is different, some happy, some sad, but the best days are when we make a meaningful change in someone's life."
Deltassist offers drug and alcohol counselling, support for victims of violence, suicide prevention, seniors counselling and other community services. The charity is also responsible for delivering United Way's Better at Home seniors' initiative, and is best known for coordinating the annual Christmas Toy Depot and food hamper program.
"Deltassist is a place of hope," adds Sabourin. "We meet people at some of the lowest points in their lives and help them get back on track. It can be tough seeing so many people facing troubles, but our job is to help them find a way to overcome their problems and start to enjoy life again."
Sabourin's career started in the late 1960s, and has included social planning for the City of Vancouver, executive director of the Canadian Diabetes Association and numerous non-profit associations.
"It has been a pleasure working with Doug over the past nine years," says Warren Hughes, president of the Deltassist board of directors. "He has built a great team of people to deliver many, many services in a professional, caring manner."
The board has initiated a process to replace Sabourin in the coming months. More information about the executive director's position can be found in the careers section of its website at www.deltaassist.com.
"While I'm excited about my future, I will miss the staff, the volunteers and the clients," says Sabourin. "We deal with so many serious issues on a daily basis, but through it all we make each other smile, because a smile is the first step to improving any situation." Deltassist has helped thousands of families and individuals cope with personal and economic challenges since 1972.
