Dear Seva Supporters,

I am writing to share important news about a future leadership transition at Seva. After seven and a half years as Executive Director (and 43 years of working with international humanitarian programs) I will retire on April 9th, 2017. Over the past year we have designed and executed a transition strategy to assure a seamless handover of leadership and the continued implementation of Seva’s long-term strategic vision to end needless blindness.

Our Board of Directors has worked closely with me to seek out just the right leader to maintain the strong momentum and growth that Seva has experienced in recent years, thanks to our talented and dedicated staff, and supporters like you.

Eight months ago, the Board retained a highly qualified executive search firm to conduct a nationwide search for our new Executive Director. In April we will make a formal announcement to introduce you to our incoming Executive Director.

Until April 9th, I will remain fully in charge followed by some time working in an advisory capacity as needed. Knowing the quality and talent of the Seva staff, along with the experience and leadership skills that our incoming Executive Director offers, I am confident that Seva’s programs and those we serve are in good hands.

I want to express my sincere thanks for the friendship and support you have shown me and Seva over the years. We could not be the vibrant and successful organization we are without compassionate and committed donors and advocates like you.

Yours in Service,

Jack Blanks
Executive Director
Seva Foundation

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to share a few words about Jack's dedication and service over the past 7-1/2 years. Jack started at Seva during the 2009 financial downturn. Like other non-profit organizations, Seva faced real challenges. Working closely with a reduced Seva team and budget, Jack not only put us back on sound financial footing in his first year, but he leaves Seva today with a threefold growth in revenue and robust programs expanding across the globe.

Of course, Jack would say this is the result of a great team of committed staff and board, but we know Jack's energy and dedication to serving others had much to do with Seva's remarkable progress and development as a humanitarian organization during his tenure. I recently asked Jack what he would like as a farewell gift for his successful leadership. He replied, "The best farewell gift anyone could make would be an extra donation to Seva so that our efforts to restore sight to the blind and visually impaired will reach even more folks in need."

On that note, I want to encourage any of you who wish to honor Jack, to make an additional donation in his name. All gifts will be used to restore and preserve sight anywhere in the 22 countries where Seva serves.

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Thanks for honoring Jack and for your compassion in action!

Warmly,

Lisa Laird
Seva Board Chair