Presidents Column
Thank You Volunteers
It’s cliché but sometimes it is good to give thanks. As a non-profit organization, we depend on our volunteers; we are entirely run by unpaid volunteers! But if you take them for granted and don’t thank them, volunteers may feel unappreciated and discouraged, and I hope no one has felt that way with Minnesota Atheists. We aren’t always good at formally recognizing volunteers, which is why we are catching up at our November Public Meeting. A few board members got together to identify people whom they feel have stood out but have not received formal recognition for their work. They kept the list limited, so it doesn’t include everyone we would like to recognize. But perhaps we will recognize them sometime in the future!
One thing I have learned from being on the board for so long is that coordinating volunteers takes work, and I recognize that I have not put proper time into that. Generally, as Mid-Westerners, we don’t like giving orders and telling people what we want them to do. We also aren’t always the best at organizing meetings to do things collaboratively. Many times, I just find it easier to do things myself, but that doesn’t develop new volunteers. To get involved as a volunteer takes an assertive individual, who is willing to take the initiative, identify needs, and do or coordinate the work. This makes those who have stepped forward to volunteer even more worthy of recognition.
If you would like to get involved, please let us know! Participate in our events to get to know us, tell us how you can help, attend a board meeting, or even join the board of directors. Being on the board is a great way to really connect with leadership in the organization and to become empowered to carry out initiatives. All positions are up for reelection in the new year and we will have at least one vacancy. Make sure your membership is current to qualify (minimum 6-month membership as of March 1st is required for directors-at-large). In closing, I hope you will join us at our November Public Meeting this Sunday to recognize and celebrate those who have volunteered their time to help further the mission and vision of Minnesota Atheists.
