It always amazes me how the initiative of a few good-minded people can lead to results that are far larger than the sum of all the parts. Kindness In Action is a prime example of such an undertaking. In its efforts to provide free dental care in various areas of the world, the vision we call KIA began in St.Paul with an exchange of ideas. Then came the call for volunteers, add the inquiries from others who have heard about KIA and are seeking opportunities to volunteer, and finally, include the subsequent requests for assistance from other NGOs who have heard of or witnessed the work of KIA. The result is the KIA spinoff effect that has grown substantially over the years far beyond the original vision of KIA.

This past year we had over 250 volunteers on twelve projects in nine countries. The 2010 project locations were in the Philippines, Nicaragua, Guatemala (3), Ecuador (2), Peru (4) and Costa Rica. This was our first year of partnering with, "Wells of Hope", an NGO based in Ontario whose focus is on building water wells in an area east of Guatemala City. This group provided exceptional support for the dental team working in the mountains out of Jalapa.

The spinoff effect is also illustrated through the many ongoing projects KIA continues to assist. Support continues for Brian Smith's Chila Inc. that is concentrating on building a medical clinic in Chisec, Guatemala. Seventeen tubs of donated school supplies, including 10 lap top computers, were carried by KIA volunteers to schools in eastern Guatemala. In addition, KIA personnel provided the funds to assist Wells of Hope in building and renovating homes for families in the eastern highlands of Guatemala. For a decade now, indigenous students in remote areas of Guatemala have received educational scholarships through "Foundations For Education" and Project Ix Canaan. Elsewhere, we were pleased to support Tools For School's efforts in Africa and Yele in Haiti for the much needed relief effort there. The building of the community centre in Cambodia continues to receive KIA support. Generous donations from Dr. Yosef Wosk and the Elk Point Elementary School funded a community library in Battambang, Cambodia. Our equipment was used by other organizations in Peru, Mexico and Haiti. Much closer to home our volunteers provided their services for Homeless Day in Edmonton. In our eighteenth year, we have become a well of experience, from which many others draw.

Fund raising has been successful during the past year with the help of Bonita and Roger Marchand who organize the Fort McMurray Casino. This, along with the ongoing generous support of our annual donors and fund-raising efforts of our volunteers, leaves KIA.in a strong financial position for the coming year.

KIA experienced its first federal audit in early March and we passed with flying colours. This confirms that our financial practices and record keeping have been managed within the letter of the law and within the federal standards set for charitable organizations.

Reflecting on the extent of these projects enables me to once again appreciate both the joy and the humility experienced in volunteering. The partnerships between the helpers and those who need help continue to inspire. The world is indeed a wonderful place.

Geoff Haszard
President