Craig Kurumada Changes Gears

Craig Kurumada has just stepped off the board after a busy term serving as Secretary and Chair of the Development Committee. We can confidently say that he is one of EEFC’s biggest boosters, as well as a devoted Gajda “mafioso” and all ’round mensch. Craig shares some thoughts as he moves on to his next good works.

Dear EEFC Friends,

Five years have flown by. I’m very proud of the way our EEFC community has navigated the pandemic, changes in administration and loss of three summers. We have a great team, and we have built and continue to build ways to ensure good governance with renewed and constant energy.

We have met the pandemic and not only survived but gotten stronger with online programming that will be added permanently to our annual offerings, reaching many more people who cannot attend camp.

We’ve proven with our BalkanFests in New York and San Francisco that, with the proper protocols, we can have safe, COVID-free gatherings with our proven, top-quality instruction in music, singing and dance. I’m convinced in-person Balkan Camps for Mendocino and Iroquois Springs will happen in 2023.

But wait, there’s more:

• We’ve secured over $40,000 in new grant funding.
• We’ve established college credit for Balkan Camp.
• We’ve started receiving legacy gifts, creating ever-growing funding for the future.

These are great steps for the future, but there is still much to be done now. Watch your mailbox for our end-of-the-year fundraising letter, or get a head start and donate right here and now. If we all pitch in, we can reach our goal. I’m confident we can.

My term is up. I’m stepping off the board, but I’m still with the EEFC, heart and soul. I’ll remain on the Development, Marketing and Nominating Committees for the foreseeable future. There’s always work to be done. If you’d like to add your energy to this unique and beloved organization, you don’t have to be a board member. You can contribute in your own way. Please talk to us. Talk to me, Craig, 707-496-6734 or email General Manager Rachel MacFarlane at office@eefc.org.