A message from Naramata Director, Alison
Alison Stewart, Interim Executive Director
As fall unfolds, we are holding deep gratitude for a summer at Naramata Centre filled with learning, play, music, and connection. Thank you to everyone who joined us. A special note of thanks to our staff team and volunteers, whose care and commitment made the season shine.
Each week, our “Meet the Executive Director & Board” conversations invited thoughtful questions and honest reflections from participants, volunteers, and supporters. We have gathered the most common themes in a Q&A.
On a personal note, serving as Interim Executive Director this summer has been both humbling and energizing. I have felt the spirit alive in this caring and supportive community, united by a shared hope for Naramata to thrive. I am pleased to share that I will continue in the Interim ED role until spring 2026, while the Board advances a long-term plan that strengthens our finances and helps us live our mission of individual and collective transformation for the good of ourselves, our communities, and the world.
Looking ahead, we are beginning plans for 2026 and carrying forward what we have learned this year. You can expect new program offerings, a simpler registration experience, and renewed attention to marketing and communications. Together, we are writing the next chapter of Naramata Centre’s story, honouring our history and tending a vibrant future.
Q & A:
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The Q&A responses to frequently questions raised in our weekly "Meet the Executive Director & Board" conversations over the summer. We hope these answers are helpful as we look to the future of Naramata Centre. Q: Will Naramata Centre be open in 2026? Yes! The Board of Naramata Centre is committed to ensuring the Centre remains a place of learning, connection, and renewal for the long term. Planning for 2026 is underway, with a full summer of program experiences for all ages. NOTE: If you are interested in being notified when accommodations and programming opens for bookings/registrations, please let us know. Q: What is the Centre’s relationship to the United Church of Canada? Naramata Centre is a supervised incorporated ministry of the Pacific Mountain Region (PMR) and a non-profit society with registered charitable status. The society is governed by a Board of Directors which includes one non-voting member appointed by the PMR. Q: What is the theological identity of the Centre? Rooted in the Christian tradition of the United Church of Canada, the Centre embraces inclusive spirituality that honours diversity, welcomes all, and encourages open exploration of faith and meaning. We value diverse spiritual expression, and our table has room for everyone. Q: Why doesn’t Naramata Centre communicate with church congregations like it used to? Our focus in recent years has been on Centre operations. Communication capacity has been limited. We recognize this gap and are committed to re-engaging with church communities. Q: What is the mission/purpose of Naramata Centre? Naramata Centre is a welcoming, inclusive, and transformational space for spiritual deepening, intergenerational learning, and connection. We empower people from all generations to live with purpose and serve with impact. Q: How can volunteers get involved? Volunteers play a vital role in Hearts & Hands, on the Board, and in many other ways. Expanding opportunities for volunteers will be a priority in 2026, and updates will be shared throughout the year. Q: What does the Centre need? The Centre thrives because of the generosity of our community. We depend on program participants, volunteers, and donors - and most of all on people who believe in the important work of the Centre. Going forward, we are committed to open communication and ongoing dialogue with our community. Q: What is the timeline for recruiting a new Executive Director? The Board of Directors met the weekend of Oct 3rd to discuss governance and the organizational leadership. Alison Stewart will be continuing as Interim Executive Director as the Board discerns the needs of the organization and the recruitment process for a new leader. Thank you for being part of the Naramata Centre community. We welcome your questions and feedback.
Please reach out to Alison Stewart, Interim Executive Director, at ed@naramatacentresociety.org |
For more information and program bookings, please visit: https://www.naramatacentresociety.org/