So, today was our last full day in Toronto. Tomorrow we get a day of relaxation by visiting Niagara Falls before heading off to Montreal to visit our YMCA colleagues there and learn more....
The last three days have been inspiring, rewarding, thought provoking and challenging. The welcome and facilitation by our Canadian counterparts has been nothing short of brilliant. The time given to us by a wide range of staff has been sincere.
I leave with many learning points, golden nuggets and challenges for me to take away, reflect on and renew in the UK. I am however, reminded of three main headlines that have particularly struck me:-
1. There are huge similarities between our two federations and countries.
2. With due processes and checks and balances in place our Canadian friends in Toronto get on with it; delivering to the needs of the community it serves.
3. Albeit the is huge with a healthy turnover, strong staff and resources, it is inspiring to see that the driving force behind the motivation is still mission focused; to serve those in need and less fortunate.
All in all i come away willing to aspire to some of the new discoveries that i have made. Goodbye Toronto and Bonjour Montreal.
Thankyou Dean, I couldn't agree more. Our hosts have been beyond fantastic. Lots of lessons for us on hospitality. Within the Galaxy of stars the brightest were Lee Fraser, Jim Pomeroy and Mary Anne Roche.
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