Having just started with Kendal in January 2024, I cannot personally reflect on the accomplishments of 2023 — though there were many. What I do know is that it can be challenging to hold the values and accomplishments of an organization like Kendal in high regard, as I do, while at the same time planning for change and renewal. It is simpler to think of things in terms of all or nothing, but that is never the actual story, is it?
Many things can be true at the same time.
We have a System of dedicated, values-driven people who are focused on creating communities that enrich the lives of the older adults we serve while supporting every employee on the team. We also believe in reaching out beyond the specific community and organization we serve by engaging with the broader communities around us to better the lives of all and create relationships that strengthen and connect us. Kendal has a rich history of person-centered service, innovative partnerships with higher education, strong belief and purposeful action toward greater environmental sustainability, and consensus decision-making that incorporates everyone’s voice.
While we uplift and celebrate these achievements and honor our history, we are also working to identify the services of the greatest value to the System and level those up. Our objective is to drill down deep into our expertise rather than spread our focus wide. We will offer the very best to the System in the right way, at the right time, and to the right people.
In an article shared last year regarding the strategic plan effort, Dick Baznik, Chair for The Kendal Corporation’s Strategic Planning Taskforce, stated, “If you don’t know where you are going, any road will do.” Like all organizations today, we are challenged to create and sustain ourselves, to lead and adapt, to build on the strength of our legacy while also looking to the future to create new offerings and evolve our work.
Our strategic planning process started in 2023. It is thoughtful, comprehensive and engaging, involving stakeholders from all parts of the Kendal System – Affiliate CEOs, Board members, and Kendal employees. This will result in a high-level roadmap for the future, outlining the specific steps we need to achieve measurable and meaningful goals. I strongly believe that Kendal’s Quaker distinctives will guide us on our path ahead.
The unique setup of the Kendal System allows real opportunities to innovate and adapt to fast-moving economic and social influences through a national network of support and services. There is nothing else like this partnership model and network in our field. We are proud of a System that captures the lens of every Affiliate, every resident and member, every employee, every Board member, every beautiful outdoor trail and woodland area, every historic building and campus space. In short, the Kendal model reflects every bit of the magic that comes from the thousands of people and experiences that are involved in creating the life we want to live together, every day.
I am blessed to be part of several teams at Kendal. I am a fellow CEO alongside the Affiliate leaders. I am part of the team in Delaware. I am part of The Kendal Corporation Board. These are strong teams that are curious and creative. There are no better people to guide us to the next chapter in Kendal’s rich and interesting story.
Vassar Byrd, CEO The Kendal Corporation