Hi my name is Mike and today is my 60th birthday. Next month, my 6th year being Executive Director begins. One birthday wish is for me to commit to better communications about the wonderful things happening here at The Dakota Center.
The past 20 months were some of the most difficult, challenging ones I have experienced leading an organization. That beats the stock market crash of 1989, 9/11, and the recession of 2008.
They were also the most rewarding accomplishments I have experienced leading an organization. We have successfully kept our programs operating while also:
• converting operations into a digital environment by adopting Microsoft Office 365
• upgraded all hardware electronics to smart devices, linked, then hung them on our custom WAN
• secured a new ADA certified 25-passenger minibus
• modernized all 4 HVAC units with the oldest unit being 2 years old
• installed a sound system and 110” screen in the gym and coupled it with a projector on an av cart
• planning for the installation of:
o 40’x30’x7’ Playground for 5-12 yrs. old with 8 activity stations
o 6 picnic tables – 4 by the basketball court and 2 in the garden
o 1 bench seat – garden
o 1 swing bench seat – garden
o repair, reseal, restripe parking lot
o premium business system that is Bluetooth enabled
o full HD security camera coverage of building and grounds
o public address system coverage of building and grounds
And that’s not all but a good place to stop. In the coming newsletters, you have my birthday promise to share pictures, stories, and most of all how all this investment is transforming lives by building character and connecting community here at the Center.
