Many trusts and incorporated societies find that as times change so will the way they run their organisation. Memberships may fall, services no longer be needed or trustee succession can be problematic.
For the Gisborne Hearing Association advancements in hearing technology and a decline in the stigma associated with deafness has seen the demand for their services decline. The committee recently made the tough decision to close the organisation and transfer its assets to a special interest fund at Sunrise.
Sunrise’s executive officer, Glenda Stokes, says the decision means the association’s legacy continue. “Those involved with the association have done such great work over the past 70 years,” she says. “It is sad to see the end of an era but, with the creation of this endowment fund, they’ve ensured those with hearing impairments will continue to be supported forever.”
Committee members say Sunrise will have the ability to continue the good work the association has built up. “We feel we are doing the right thing to benefit the people of Gisborne,” association secretary Helen Ovenden says. “The funds that have been raised by Gisborne people will stay local to help our Gisborne community.” Read more.