Arvind Patel, the staff member of the Glen Innes Family Centre (GIFC), has announced his retirement after 28 years of dedicated service to the community. Arvind joined GIFC in May 1995 as a research officer, undertaking community research work at the time. He was instrumental in leading the charrette process, a participatory research method that involved the input of residents, stakeholders, and experts to identify the needs and aspirations of the Glen Innes community. The charrette process, which was conducted in collaboration with Auckland City Council, Work and Income, and an American company, resulted in a comprehensive report that highlighted the issues and opportunities in the area, such as housing, education, health, employment, and recreation.
Arvind’s role as a research officer soon evolved into a permanent position, as he took charge of applying for contracts and funding from various sources to expand the scope and reach of GIFC’s services. He was also responsible for hiring and mentoring professional staff, who brought diverse skills and backgrounds to the organisation. Arvind’s business acumen and long-term vision enabled GIFC to grow from a small social service provider to a well-established and respected organisation that caters to the needs of a diverse and multicultural community. During his time, GIFC has delivered a range of programmes and initiatives that have improved the lives and well-being of many people in Glen Innes and beyond. Some of these include the Occupational Therapy programme, the Youth Development programmes, the Family Support programmes, and the Community Development programmes.
Arvind’s colleagues and friends describe him as a visionary leader, who always had the best interests of the community at heart. He was also a generous and humble person, who never sought recognition or praise for his work. He was always willing to listen and learn from others, and to share his knowledge and experience with anyone who needed it. He was a mentor and a role model for many people who worked with him or benefited from his services.
Arvind’s retirement marks the end of an era for GIFC, but also the beginning of a new chapter for him and his family. We wish him all the best for his future endeavours, and we thank him for his invaluable contribution to our community. He will be greatly missed by all of us at GIFC, but we hope he will stay in touch and visit us often. Arvind Patel, you are a legend!
