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It is a pleasure to write a note of appreciation to so many active FDRIO members.  We have worked hard and built a solid base of cooperation both internally and in our efforts to reach out to all Family DR organizations and professionals both outside and within the court system.

First, I want to acknowledge the efforts of Chris Arnold and Lorne Wolfson for their work-in-progress as they continue outreach and dialogue with OAFM, OCLF, FMC, ADRIO and the Bar Association.  This is an on-going process of building goodwill and cooperation in the interest of all Family DR professionals and the families we serve.

Second, I would like to thank Hilary Linton and her team for their incredible energy in pulling together a list of awesome events for FDR Week. Our goal is to educate the public about Family DR and the events that have been organized in many Ontario cities will accomplish that – in most cases at no cost to the public and through the efforts of volunteer Family professionals. There are also events for Family DR professionals to learn from each other with a special thank you to the Law Society, and the Mayors of several cities for endorsing FDR Week. Thank you! All Family DR organizations are invited to participate and share with pride, their contribution to the field.

Third, I want to thank my amazing Conference co-chair, Liz Nastasi, and our team of volunteers. Without their organizational skills, we would not be in a position to deliver what will be an incredible Conference. A major “thank you” goes to the wonderful list of presenters for offering their expertise and creativity to bring our “All in the Family” theme to life. Special thanks to Ontario’s Premier, Kathleen Wynne, the Attorney General Madeleine Meilleur and  the Treasurer of the Law Society, Janet Minor who will be participating and offering their support.

FDRIO has many other initiatives underway to build a professional organization with membership standards, a code of conduct and programs  for members across the various Sections and in cooperation with other Family organizations – but I will save that for another Newsletter.

In the meantime we welcome your participation in the building of FDRIO. Please join us on November 23^rd for an outstanding Conference and for the many excellent FDR Week events.

With great appreciation,

Dr. Barbara Landau, President