On Seafair Weekend, within a pocket of quietness at Helping Link/Một Dấu Nối’s new community hub, a dedicated group of staff, board members and volunteers met for a Strategic Planning Retreat. Under the expert guidance of Amadeo Cruz Guiao of Lunas Consulting, the two-day session was an opportunity to look forward by reflecting on our history and mission. With a new location in Renton and the chances therein for reaching and helping the Vietnamese population located in Seattle and regionwide, the retreat was a timely revisioning exercise.

The group achieved its goal of assessment and the development of strategic priorities for the next three years. Helping Link/Một Dấu Nối’s new community hub in Renton was a key point and catalyst for what can be achieved. Some ideas put forth include:

• Expanded connections and relationship with community leaders
• Expansion of services
• Diversification of funding
• Program transformation
• Addressing societal issues that adversely affect Vietnamese families

Such lofty goals require a dose of reality for finances and achievable steps. A whole day was spent examining chunks of priorities through do-able terms. In the coming months, more achievable work on priorities will continue through sub-committees and individuals as assigned.

In wrapping up, the retreat participants were energized with the plans and goals set forth for Helping Link/Một Dấu Nối’s future success.