Celebrating Leadership and Welcoming New Beginnings

A Transition in the Mayne Island Assisted Living Society Board

As the Mayne Island Assisted Living Society (MIALS) continues its mission to serve our community, we recognize the invaluable contributions of those who have dedicated their time and expertise to lead our organization. This year, we bid a fond farewell to Beth Cooper as she rotates off the board and passes the torch to our new Board Chair, Robin Poncia.

Thank you, Beth Cooper

Beth Cooper’s journey with MIALS began in 2019 when she started volunteering in the Meals on Wheels program. For Beth, this was more than just a volunteer role; it was a way to give back to an organization that had impacted her own family. Her mother, Sally Stevens, lived independently on Mayne Island after the passing of Beth’s father and benefited from the services provided by MIALS. Inspired by this personal connection, Beth felt a deep calling to contribute to the organization that had supported her mother and so many others in the community.

In 2021, Beth took her commitment a step further by joining the MIALS Board. Her extensive experience as an occupational therapist, with 37 years of service working with adults and seniors, made her an invaluable asset to the organization. Her professional background, combined with her personal passion, brought a unique perspective to the board, helping to shape MIALS’ approach to delivering services that truly meet the needs of our aging population.

From 2022 to 2024, Beth served as President of the Board, guiding MIALS through a period of growth and transformation. Under her leadership, the organization not only expanded its reach but also deepened its commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care to those who rely on our services. Beth’s dedication to MIALS has left an indelible mark, and her legacy of service will continue to inspire us as we move forward.

-Robin Poncia

Welcome Robin Poncia

We are thrilled to introduce Robin Poncia as the new Chair of the Board. With a rich background in the not-for-profit sector,a career in the tech and education sectors, Robin brings extensive leadership skills and a forward-thinking vision that will help steer MIALS toward a promising future.

Robin’s connection to MIALS is deeply personal. Having experienced the challenges of living far from aging parents, Robin knows the worry that comes with being distant from loved ones. Both her mother and father-in-law lived with dementia, giving her a profound appreciation for the work we do to support aging Mayne Islanders and their caregivers. Robin is deeply committed to ensuring that MIALS remains a compassionate, person-centered resource for all who need our services.

As Robin steps into her new role, she brings new energy and innovative ideas that will help MIALS navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Her leadership will be key in building on the strong foundation laid by the MIALS’ team and in driving our mission to new heights.

-Beth Cooper