A Member since 2001, Frances Sloan Sainas has been a TLC donor and volunteer for years. When TLC was struggling with financial difficulties in 2012 Frances volunteered her time moving TLC’s office, liaising with community partners and assisting the organization in financing the restructuring process. In September, Frances was elected to TLC’s Board of Directors. She resides in North Vancouver and is a retired educator and former manager in the hospitality industry.

TLC: How did you first get involved with TLC?

FSS: My relationship with TLC began in 2001 when I was working at the Open Learning Agency and completing my Masters Degree in Leadership and Training at Royal Roads University. TLC sponsored my major project, Building an Educational Strategy for TLC. Since 2001, I have been an active member, TLC Lower Mainland Committee representative and financial supporter of TLC.

TLC: What was your first impression of the organization?

FSS: I was impressed with the passion and dedication of everyone involved in the organization. Everyone was “walking the talk” and I found this very motivating.

TLC: When your friends or family ask why you are volunteering for TLC’s Board of Directors, what do you say?

FSS: The time has come to offer my skills, knowledge and time to help TLC explore and find a new, sustainable direction that is grounded in the organization’s founding principles and values.

I applaud the past and especially the current TLC Board members for their perseverance and efforts to navigate the organization through very difficult and troubled waters.

I offer the TLC Board a variety of perspectives from TLC member, TLC donor and DIP (Debtor in Possession) funder during the CCAA Process.

TLC: What has surprised you most about working with TLC?

FSS: I have been surprised at the intensity of passion, the amount of perseverance and depth of dedication of the staff, boards representatives and members of TLC.

TLC: What motivates you to stay involved?

FSS: I am motivated to fill the gap of facilitating the protection of special places as I see each level of government shifting away from this responsibility.

TLC: In your opinion, what is the most important work that TLC does?

FSS: For me, TLC has protected exceptional special places throughout the province but future initiatives need to be done in a sustainable and fiscally responsible way in partnerships with other stakeholders.

TLC: Of what contribution are you most proud?

FSS: I am most proud of my contribution that moved the TLC Lower Mainland office at Eagles Estate in Burnaby to TLC Head office when TLC was restructuring. As a team member, I worked with the City of Burnaby, the TLC Lower Mainland staff, and TLC Head Office to resolve many issues concerning this transition.

TLC: When you last donated, how did that make you feel?

FSS: I always feel gratitude that I am able to help out. A donation may be volunteering my time, sharing my voice by writing a letter of support, attending a TLC function or giving a financial contribution. It all gives me a positive feeling that I am contributing.

TLC: What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering or donating to TLC?

FSS: Do not hesitate. The rewards you will receive will last a lifetime.

TLC: Do you have a message to share with our other Members and volunteers?

FSS: Thank you for being involved.

With the guidance of the TLC Board and the work of the devoted TLC staff, and support of its members and volunteers, I believe TLC will resolve the challenges of the past and find a new direction for the future.

Members can meet Frances and the Board of Directors at TLC’s 2015 Annual General Meeting on November 21st from 1 to 4 p.m. at the University of Victoria’s Student Union Building.