Hiya, everyone!

In light of recent events, Jack and I want to get back to what we're all here for: campaigning. We want to show you, the member, why we have what it takes to earn your vote.

Those of you who have taken a look at our campaign site will have had a sneak peek into our platform. We believe that it's right for the club and right for the members (you!). In short, we think that it's the Right Stuff!

Over the next week, we will be unveiling all of the parts of our platform. You've heard about some elements in our earlier answers, but we want to let you see each aspect individually. We want you to see the care, the thought, and the commitment that we have put into this platform. We want you to see why we are so proud of it and we want you to be as excited as we are about the potential!

We won't bore you with long speeches and explanations. Instead, we believe that a very simple format is the best way to get things across:

- Identifying the current problem(s).
- Explaining what our solution is.
- Giving you the anticipated immediate benefits of implementing this solution.
- Giving you the anticipated long term benefits.

We want to Keep It Simple (Silly!) and we think our platform explains itself. However, we certainly welcome any questions that you might have!

So, without further ado, Jack and I are proud to present the first part of the Right Stuff!

THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE RIGHT JOB WITH THE RIGHT TOOLS

Problem:

Since STF is a volunteer organization, we rely on the enthusiasm and the willingness of our members to participate in government. Unfortunately, those members are simply not given the training they deserve. They are not provided with a clear and concise job description explaining what their authority and powers are. They aren't given the tools to succeed. These individuals want to help and want to achieve, but the current structure doesn't always allow that to happen. It's simply assumed that they know what they need to, instead of passing along the knowledge necessary for a position. Because of all of this, there is a shortage of volunteers to fill these positions.

Solution:

Enable the volunteers to make a difference by giving them a clear structure, training as requested and needed, performance standards, and helping them to succeed. Monitor these standards with a view of helping the person to improve to meet them, as opposed to removing them from the position. Account for the demands of real life and work to make STF fit with members' personal commitments.

Immediate Benefits:

A more enjoyable experience for those volunteers and for the members they work for, as well as a more productive club. STF doesn't need inactivity through fear of the position, it needs proactivity through understanding. Encourages better communication. Ensures that people feel comfortable expressing worries and issues.

Long Term Benefits:

More volunteers. More people feeling involved in STF and that their contribution matters. Increased member retention. Easier training and orientation for new holders of a position. Provides a new challenge for existing members.

Thanks for reading! We look forward to your comments and questions.

Stay tuned for the next part later this week. Here's a hint: it's a trilogy! <G>

Sarah

Hemenway/Dipper: It's YOUR club!