The membership of the Newton Advocacy Society (NAGS) voted unanimously to merge with Sources Community Resources Society.
The move, made a May 14 meeting, was precipitated by upcoming changes in the British Columbia Government’s funding and delivery model for employment programs in the province, as well as the pending retirement of long-time executive director Susan Keeping.
“I am sure that the new organization will be enhanced with the amalgamation,” said Karen Kelly, NAGS Board President. “This is the best possible direction to continue, sustain and enhance the services we provide to our clients.”
NAGS was established in 1991 as a grassroots initiative. Founded by five women, it was created to respond to the need for information and support services by individual and families coping with issues related to poverty and low income.
NAGS now aids about 5,000 individuals throughout the Lower Mainland, and is involved in issues related to homelessness, poverty, welfare, mental health and legal advocacy, housing, women’s empowerment and employment.
Sources is a community-based non-profit agency operated by the Peace Arch Community Services Society.
“The two organizations share strong community values,” said Keeping. “The amalgamation is a wonderful opportunity to strengthen and grow our programs, particularly in employment services. I am confident of the future.”
NAGS directors Sharon Goldberg and Kyle Ballie were welcomed to the Sources Board of Directors at the meeting.
“Our board had always expressed interest in expanding our advocacy and poverty services,” said Sources board president Marjorie Mooney. “Our enhanced organization will work hard to continue the excellent work of NAGS”.
“We thank the staff and Board of the Newton Advocacy Group Society for your confidence in our shared future and for your heart-felt commitment to help people grow individually and collectively in the community,” said Sources executive director David Young.
Young will assume overall administrative responsibility for the amalgamated organization.
Sources will now serve more than 20,000 people in the Lower mainland and Northern B.C., offering programs that support individuals and family coping with isolation, addiction, poverty, disability and conflict.
The Delta-based Gateway Society for Persons with Autism amalgamated with Sources in the spring of 2010.
For more information, contact Anthony Intas at 604-531-6226 or aintas@sourcesbc.ca