November 1, 2008

Dear Westcoast Friends,

As part of our recent strategic planning process the Board and Management of Westcoast Child Care Resource Centre have been reviewing our systems and how to best serve our clients. In particular, we have been reviewing our subscription process and benefits. As a result of this review we have decided to end the subscriber program as of November 1, 2008. This notice will describe the status of various services connected to the subscriber program, and how they will continue.

Current Subscribers
All existing subscriptions will be honoured for one year from the date of purchase. This means that all benefits associated with that subscription will be maintained for one year (i.e., access to the Library, and 10% off workshops and job postings).

Library Access
As of November 1, 2008 there will be a $5.00 annual fee to establish or renew a Westcoast Library card. Organizations can pay $15 for 3 cards, which the organization is responsible for. The fee for Mobile Lending Library will continue to be $5.00, and the CCRR Lending Library will also be $5.00 per year.

Workshop Fees
Workshop fees will remain at $30, as they have been for a number of years. However, we are reviewing the number of requests we receive for the replacement of workshop certificates. As this is a time consuming and unfunded activity, the organization is considering the implementation of a $15 fee to replace a workshop certificate within one year of the date originally issued.

Job Postings
The terms of Job Postings have been reviewed and are slightly changed. We heard from the public that a longer posting term was required in this difficult recruiting market. A posting will now be $70 for 28 days, and $25 for a 14 day extension. Westcoast is now offering a standing posting, which remains unchanged for a period of 6 months, for $300. This type of posting is meant to support the ongoing recruitment of casual or substitute staffing.

In conclusion
As you know, we are constantly trying to improve our work in the face of severe funding restraints. We appreciate your support of Westcoast over the past years. If you have comments on these changes or other services please e-mail us. We will be happy to review all comments.