On the 25th February, the staff, trustees and residents of Andrew House - both past and present - bid a fond farewell to two people who have played a huge part in the life of the Charity over the course of many years – our interim CEO, Ian Burnham and our counsellor Keith Pimm.
With the arrival of Nicola Cook, our new Director of Operations, Ian has finally been able to step down as our Interim CEO after 3 years in the role, after only originally intending to stay for 6 months!
Recalling Galatians 2:9 from the New Testament, our Chair of Trustees, Daniel Sibthorpe explained that since Ian took on the role he has proved himself to be one of the “esteemed pillars of the organisation, exhibiting load bearing strength”, bringing stability and a trusted, reassuring presence at a time of relative uncertainty for the Charity (not to mention his dad-like sense of humour, which I’m sure all staff will miss…possibly!) In addition, Ian worked tirelessly to secure new funding for Andrew House to ensure its continued community presence, as a refuge for those in recovery.
As Ian, and his partner Bernice, now return to their home in Sway in Dorset after temporarily relocating to Clevedon three years ago, everyone involved with Changing Lives wishes him some well-earned rest. Although, as a very active and successful hockey player, and keen gardener, we’re not quite sure how much rest he will actually get. Furthermore, we look forward to welcoming Ian back in due course to continue in his original role as a trustee for the Charity.
Keith’s association with Changing Lives, and in particular Andrew House, stretches back even further and over the years he has undertaken various roles including trustee, house manager and, latterly, as trained counsellor for the residents of Andrew House and others.
Speaking emotionally about Keith’s grace and humanity, our Community Leader Jess Crossley, paid beautiful tribute to Keith, highlighting his “nurturing spirit, listening ear and wise counsel.” In addition, his personal support for Jess and her family (which included Jess giving birth to her son in the back of Keith’s car!), and his compassion and spiritual support for those who are struggling, have “embodied Jesus’ shining example”.
Keith has touched the lives of so many people during his time at Changing Lives and his presence, especially at Andrew House, will be sorely missed. However, we know that Keith has more than earnt a period of rest and relaxation with his lovely wife and wider family, and we take comfort in the belief that Keith will continue to play a part in Changing Lives' future.
Following a wonderful buffet provided by Scotty (himself an ex resident of Andrew House), tributes to the two departees from Daniel and Jess, and the presentation of cards and some small gifts, all those present joined in a rendition of Ian's favourite hymn - Holy, Holy (Lift Up His Name) – led by Nicola with her beautiful voice and accompanied by Jess on keyboard.
After an occasion marked by joyful celebration and poignant reflection, it was time to draw the farewell gathering to a close. Everyone at Changing Lives, and I’m sure quite a few others besides, will miss Ian and Keith’s presence around the office and at Andrew House, but we know it is just ‘au revoir’ and both will continue to play a part in the future of the Charity, in their own special ways.
Ant
