After six years of dedicated service, Susan Weppler is stepping away from the Carman Wellness Connections (CWC) Board of Directors. Throughout her time with CWC, Susan has helped build a stronger, more welcoming community through compassion, collaboration and a commitment to helping others.
As Susan concludes her time on the CWC Board, we celebrate her contributions to building a more supportive and welcoming community.
SUSAN’S JOURNEY WITH CWC
Susan’s journey with CWC began in the fall of 2019 when she participated in the Round Table on Poverty in Carman. Listening to community members share their experiences and the barriers they faced left a lasting impression. “I just knew that I wanted to be part of finding solutions to the barriers of poverty,” she recalled. “I respected the people who brought their concerns to the Round Table.”
From that experience, Susan developed a desire to listen, learn and find meaningful solutions.
SIX YEARS OF COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
For Susan, the most rewarding part of being involved with CWC has always been the opportunity to help build a community where everyone feels supported and welcomed. “I believe strongly in helping to create the kind of community that is supportive and welcoming to everyone,” she said.
Susan joined the board hoping to make a difference. However, she never expected to stay for six years. Along the way, she developed a deep respect for her fellow board members and gained valuable lessons about collaboration, patience, and active listening. “I respect all the other Board members and have tried to learn patience and better active listening skills,” she shared. “It is important to make decisions collaboratively.”
Above all, Susan believes one of CWC’s strengths is that everyone brings unique talents and perspectives to the table. That is also the message she shares with anyone considering getting involved. “Each person comes with their own talents and skills,” she said. “It is also an opportunity to grow and mentor others. We also have fun.”
Throughout her board service, Susan has also followed, Susan has been guided by a simple but powerful principle: showing respect to everyone. It is the thumbprint she hopes to leave behind as she steps away from her leadership role.
For new board members, her advice is equally thoughtful. “Remember the values and mission statement that have been created for CWC,” she said. “Be open and resilient. You never know what surprises or challenges may come.”
A LIFE OF LEARNING AND GIVING BACK
Susan also enjoys lifelong learning. In fact, she has practised French on Duolingo for more than 1,260 consecutive days!
Susan is especially proud of her work on two refugee sponsorship committees. Through those experiences, she has become an “Auntie” to 11 Syrian children from two families, relationships that have enriched her life in countless ways. “I look forward to CWC offering a place to shower and wash clothes so that unhoused people have more dignity,” she said.
LOOKING AHEAD AND SAYING THANK YOU
Looking ahead, Susan is excited about CWC’s continued growth. In particular, she looks forward to the organization’s move into a larger space and the possibility of offering services that help restore dignity to people experiencing housing challenges.
If she had to describe her six years with CWC in just six words?
“Laughter, Food, Exhaustion, Purpose, Commitment, Friendship.”
Susan, thank you for six years of thoughtful leadership, compassion and dedication to Carman Wellness Connections. Your commitment to building a community where everyone belongs has helped shape CWC, and your contributions will continue to make a difference.