After 24 remarkable years as Chief Executive Officer of the Immigrant Services Society of BC (ISSofBC), Patricia Woroch takes a well-deserved retirement at the end of August 2021.
The CEO oversees all ISSofBC’s operations including Settlement, LINC, Career Services and the fee-for-service Language and Career College. These programs are delivered by 400 staff and serve close to 20,000 immigrant and refugee clients annually in 14 offices in Metro Vancouver, Squamish and Northern BC.
During her tenure, ISSofBC has become a recognized global leader in the immigrant serving sector leading unprecedented expansion from two to 14 offices and a $4 million to $25 million annual budget.
“She led the organization in responding to changing demographics and expanded programming throughout the Lower Mainland over two decades,” said ISSofBC Board President Jack Wong.
Patricia oversaw the development and opening of ISSofBC Welcome Centre, a world-class, innovative service hub for newcomers. ISSofBC also took the lead role in the largest resettlement plan in recent history by receiving over 2,000 Syrian government-sponsored refugees in 2015.
In addition to several recognition awards given to ISSofBC during her time as CEO, Patricia herself received the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in 2017 for propelling change through her “leadership, professionalism and vision within the non-profit sector” and for making “a significant and sustained difference in Metro Vancouver.” In 2019, Patricia received the “Legend” award from the Community Social Services Employers’ Association (CSSEA) for “outstanding contributions to the social services sector.”
“Patricia created a commitment to community well-being through the delivery of high quality, innovative, and client-focused services and programs,” said Jack.
The Board of Directors have initiated a nation-wide search for Patricia’s successor, and will share updates throughout the coming months.
In the meantime, ISSofBC’s Board of Directors join staff, donors, community partners and stakeholders in showing our gratitude and appreciation for Patricia’s contribution and give our sincere thanks for an incredible job well done.
If you would like to congratulate Patricia, feel free post on our Happy Retirement Message Board.
After you click the send message button, look for the plus (+) sign on bottom right of the board to create your own message.
