The Boardroom San Diego

 

In 2009, the start of our recent great recession was felt in the surge in layoffs, cut backs, right-sizing and down-sizing; a major shift in our economy’s employment. I, too, found that my position was in jeopardy. And I know the pain of unemployment; I’ve faced it a few times in my career, and it isn’t a fun place to be.

 

Being an entrepreneur, I felt called to start The Boardroom as a place for professionals in transition in the San Diego community to find hope, education, resources, and support. The Boardroom was where you would ultimately get hired.

 

It began as a community outreach at La Jolla Presbyterian Church. In 2011 it evolved into a stand alone non-profit, a 501 (c) 3 organization. It continued to thrive and grow, largely by word-of-mouth. 

 

As I began to plan 2015, it struck me that the time has come to close The Boardroom San Diego: it had served it’s purpose, assisted thousands of people, and the economic/employment crisis was behind us. While there was still a need, as we continually had weekly attendance averaging 40 people, the environment has changed. Right-sizing and re-organizations are the ‘new norm’ as is working as a 1099 vs. a W-2 employee; perhaps it is change that is the ‘new norm’. 

 

After a great series of programs in January, The Boardroom officially closed on January 31, 2015.

 

I am grateful to LJPC for the support they have given this program from the start, the long roster of speakers who have so generously donated their time and energy to provide guidance in the new reality of job search, and grateful for all the wonderful, and sometimes challenging, people who have participated to make The Boardroom a special, safe, supportive community.

 

The Boardroom has been a labor of love and a great adventure. The friendships and relationships that have been made were only possible by The Boardroom. We are all stronger for them. I wish each and every one of you continued success in your life and your work, and remember your work does not define you. It is your relationships that make the difference; keep nurturing them today and tomorrow. 

 

I don’t know what is ahead for me, but I know there is some new venture that will call. My best to all.