The partnership comes after the resignation of CAO Marie Flowers, who will move on from Parkland Foundation January 31, 2015. Flowers has been with the foundation since June 2006 and has played an important part in Parkland Foundation’s growth and success over the years. 

Flowers said, “Since working with the Foundation, I have met many fabulous seniors, been privileged to have worked with some fantastic staff and worked for Board members who truly have had the best interest of the Foundation’s residents at heart.”  

Board members thank Flowers for all of her hard work and efforts during her employment with the Foundation and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

“While we were sad to see Marie Flowers leave us,” said Board Chair, Connie Huelsman, “we took her departure as an opportunity to explore where the Foundation could go and who could help lead us towards the future. After much deliberation, we decided to partner with The Bethany Group, who bring with them a vast amount of resources.”

The Bethany Group has a long history in providing housing for seniors and families in need. Beginning in 1922, the organization has expanded across the province partnering with similar organizations to Parkland Foundation. The foundation joins a family that includes Camrose & Area Lodge Authority, Flagstaff Regional Housing Group, Lacombe Foundation, Red Deer Housing Authority, Rimoka Housing Foundation, and Wetaskiwin & Area Lodge Authority. 

Parkland Foundation and The Bethany Group are working together during this transition period to ensure residents and staff are not impacted. The partnership will just mean a new CAO team and they should not see any significant changes. The Bethany Group’s President & CEO, Denis Beesley, along with his team will work closely with everyone involved during the transition. The day to day management will be handled by Sharon Mickla, Director of Client Services.   

Beesley said of the new partnership, “By partnering, Parkland Foundation and The Bethany Group will be able to access greater resources to better anticipate and meet the needs of residents and staff. We are excited to step into this role and look forward to working with the board as we move forward.”

The first project the Foundation and The Bethany Group will take on is a proposal for a new facility in Innisfail. Work has already started on this business plan and been submitted to the Ministry of Seniors for consideration.