Dear VHCD Commissioners, Staff, and Retreat Attendees, 

I’m writing with enthusiasm and deep respect as we prepare for the upcoming VHCD Board Retreat on June 18 and 19. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to learn more about your journey—both the challenges and the meaningful progress you’ve made—and I want to acknowledge up front what a significant moment this is.

I hope we can all regard this retreat not as a break from your work. It’s a chance to step more fully into it—with clarity, intention, and shared commitment.

The design will allow us to:

• Reflect on how far you’ve come—from leadership transitions to new partnerships and improved interagency collaboration.
• Explore proven tools and frameworks (like the SCARF Model and the Five Dysfunctions of a Team) to enhance communication, trust, and accountability.
• Identify simple, shared leadership practices that support healthy disagreement, decision-making, and strong committee dynamics.
• Create alignment on strategic priorities and stakeholder engagement moving forward.
• Model the kind of leadership we want to extend into the community.

We’ll open with moments of gratitude, highlight recent successes, and gradually move into areas of tension—not to dwell, but to clear space for better conversations and bolder decisions.

I’ve attached the retreat agenda and goals, and you can expect a mix of facilitated dialogue, reflective activities, and practical planning. There will be space to speak candidly, to listen deeply, and to co-create the habits that will serve you going forward.

I’m honored to support this work. And I’ll be there not just to facilitate, but to partner with you in strengthening trust—internally, and with the community you serve.

Please feel free to reach out in advance if you have any questions, thoughts, or hopes for the retreat. I look forward to seeing you all soon.

Warmly,

Kevin Joyce, Facilitator