Thanks Dr. Bob
By Sue Bentley

Dr. Bob Allen has been the President of the Board of Directors for the last two years. His term of office as president ends June 30, 2006.

Fortunately he will remain on the Board as Secretary. I would like to personally express my thanks to Bob for his guidance, wisdom and patience with me as I began my tenure as executive director.

This was a time of great transition and he was with me all the way. While working with Bob, I have learned quite a few things about him. He has recently retired as local director of Pediatrix, a company which provides medical services in neonatal intensive care units of hospitals. Although he retired from his administrative position, he continues to practice in a Virginia Beach hospital about one week a month. He also keeps his hand in farming with his cattle farm in Botetourt County. He and his family raise miniature horses as well.

Bob has eight grandchildren whom he enjoys spending time with. Four are in the Roanoke area and the other four are in the Richmond area. When he goes to Virginia Beach usually one or more of the “grands” go along as well. They also enjoy being in the home of Bob and his wife Margaret Ann, where there is a new German Shepherd named Jack who knows sign language.

In addition to his work on the DePaul Board of Directors, Bob actively volunteers his time in other areas of the community. He is currently chair of the Deacons at Fincastle Baptist Church. He and Margaret Ann have just finished serving as co-presidents of Weekday Religious Education in Botetourt County. He is also very active in the Hollins Kiwanis Club. As part of his Kiwanis service, he regularly reads to kindergarten children at Troutville Elementary School.

Bob has shown great enthusiasm for the services we provide at our many service locations. Most recently he has supported us as we shared a dream of a new group home in the Lynchburg area. With his help, we have purchased the home and look forward to serving more individuals with special needs. I appreciate his patience throughout the negotiation process.

THANKS Bob for all your support and encouragement!