By Carly Walker-Dawson, Chair of Riverside Community Health Project
At the end of March, we celebrated the legacy of Anne Bonner, outgoing Chief Executive and long-time supporter and friend of Riverside, upon her retirement.
It’s hard to do justice in words what she has given to the organisation – Anne herself has so often been synonymous with Riverside. Anne has impacted the communities here in the West End immeasurably, over and above the welfare and wellbeing support she has facilitated. She has given people a sense of belonging in the city, built people’s confidence and self-worth, and no doubt saved lives.
Trustees and staff shared their thoughts on what they value and admire in Anne as part of her leaving celebrations – here are some things people had to say.
“Anne is skilled at engaging people and getting on board, and she is the reason why staff and volunteers are so committed to Riverside”.
“Anne is caring, creative, kind and always there for people in need”.
“She is supportive, quirky, passionate about her communities and inventive about her solutions”.
“Anne is brave in standing up for what she believes is right and fighting for those who need it”.
As a small token of our appreciation for everything Anne has done, we have named the new upstairs part of the Carnegie Building after her. We hope you will visit the new Bonner Suite soon!