With the fiscal year recently completed, it is possible to look back on some of the accomplishments of the past year. We have seen a substantial increase in the numbers of job placements in our employment program. We have expanded both our Newton and Dedham Day Habilitation Programs. We have been able to make substantial capital improvements to several of our community residences, and we have revamped and improved the curriculum of our ASCENT afterschool pro-gram. We also received high ratings in our recent survey done by the Department of Developmental Services. All of this progress has been accomplished in a year where there has been great fiscal uncertainty in the state budget and in the general economy.

For this new fiscal year the Price Center has received significant cuts our day programs and for the first time in several years there is no funding for merit raises for direct care staff. In addition, there is currently discussion of additional cuts depending on the status of state revenue collection. To make up for these lost funds we have reduced our expenses significantly and we are being more diligent and creative in our fundraising efforts. We have recently brought on a new Director of Development and are currently upgrading the tools and methods we will use for fundraising. We are also actively preparing for our annual Gala event on October 23rd at the Brookline Holiday Inn featuring the singing of Linda Eder. One area of strength during the past year has been the Price Center Board of Directors and committees. We have been fortunate to have several new members who have helped us improve the organization in many areas. We also have several new members with needed areas of expertise joining the board and committees this year. Unfortunately, the Chairperson of the Board, Lisa Majewski, is retiring from the Board after thirteen years of service. Lisa will continue as a member of The Price Center Program Enhancement Committee.

On behalf of everyone at the Price Center I want to thank Lisa for her diligent and dedicated work on the Board over so many years. It is only with the work of volunteers like Lisa that The Price Center can remain strong and vibrant. I have recently finished my fifth year with The Price Center. It has been a busy and produc-tive period. I am pleased that we have been able to accom-plish many of the goals that we set as an agency over that time. Also, it has also been great for me to be able to work in my home community. This past year has been difficult due to budget cuts. In order to continue to pursue our mission, and ensure a plethora of options from which our clients may choose, we find ourselves even more dependent upon the financial support of oth-ers. We thank you for your continued generosity and sup-port. The Price Center is fortunate to have you in our corner!

Justin Sallaway
President