Highlights from the 2025 Annual General Meeting
The Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually on February 22, 2025, with more than 120 members in attendance. During the meeting, members received updates on CMS’s achievements over the past year, plans for the future, and a presentation from guest speaker Tyler Hamil from Covenant Health on Advance Care Planning and Palliative Care.
Key Takeaways for Members
The Cooperative Memorial Society (CMS) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually on February 22, 2025, with more than 120 members in attendance. During the meeting, members received updates on CMS’s achievements over the past year, plans for the future, and a presentation from guest speaker Tyler Hamil from Covenant Health on Advance Care Planning and Palliative Care.
Key Takeaways for Members
- Big Changes at CMS
CMS has made significant strides in its governance structure, transitioning to a policy governance model. This change allows the Board to focus more on strategic initiatives, while the newly appointed Executive Director, Terry Geib, will manage the day-to-day operations of the society. This new approach is designed to strengthen the effectiveness of CMS’s leadership and overall operations. - Growing Our Reach
In 2024, CMS welcomed 1,606 new members. The society also made significant efforts to expand its outreach through community presentations, direct mail campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations. These initiatives helped spread awareness of CMS’s services and educated more Albertans on the importance of end-of-life planning. - Farewell to Our Office
Due to rising rental costs, CMS will be moving out of its downtown Calgary office in May 2025. However, as CMS operates fully online, this move will not impact member services. Mail will be redirected to a new P.O. Box, and members can continue to access all services without interruption. - Financial Stability & Future Investments
CMS ended 2024 with a surplus of $48,330 and net assets of $662,960, ensuring the society remains on solid financial footing. In the year ahead, CMS plans to invest in improving its website, enhancing its CRM system, and expanding its outreach efforts to continue growing its member base, fund the new Executive Director (ED) position, and provide valuable services. As a result, the Board is planning a deficit budget of about $50,000 from its reserves to cover these investments. - Locking in Funeral Costs
The CMS contract with McInnis & Holloway for Calgary and Cornerstone for Lethbridge and surrounding areas ends December 31, 2025. Members considering prepaying for their funerals are encouraged to do so before November 2025 to lock in current pricing, as prices for funeral services are expected to increase with the new contracts. - Director Election & Departing Directors
The AGM included the election of new directors. CMS recognized the departing directors Sylvia Kasper and Terry Geib, who have both served as directors since 2008 and 2009, respectively, as well as Mike Meredith, who resigned in the fall to focus on his growing legal firm. CMS extends a warm welcome to new directors Elaine Bereziuk-Smith, Gael MacLeod, and Rob Seipert. - More Ways to Get Involved
CMS is actively seeking volunteers and board members to support its outreach, events, and advocacy efforts. Whether you have skills in social media, videography, writing, event planning, or even baking for special events, CMS welcomes your help in ensuring the continued success of its programs.
Recorded Meeting (49 minutes)
