A clean audit, a Transitioning Youth presentation from Montgomery County, and advice on vetting new board applicants.
Thanks to the efforts of our team, the Foundation received a successful audit report. There were no discrepancies or material weaknesses. This is good news in that it will help us secure grants in the future. We'd like to thank everyone who assisted by pulling documents and answering questions.
We are still looking for an Assistant Treasurer to support our team. The best sources for these positions are people you know who have a financial background or bookkeeping experience. Please keep your eyes and ears open and let us know of anyone who might be interested.
If you missed our last Community Meeting, see below for the fantastic presentation by Montgomery County DSS in recognition of National Foster Care month. We've also included some ideas on how your board can support children in foster care. Take a look at your board's financial position as well as the needs in your county. You might just change someone's life.
All the best,
Chris
May is a time to acknowledge families and professionals who help children and youth in foster care. We were fortunate to have two of these professionals join us at our Community Meeting on April 22nd. Lisa Merkin and Shari Zouhairi from Montgomery County Child Welfare Services (CWS), provided a wonderful presentation on Transitioning Youth. Young adults aging out of foster care at age 21 face a host of challenges if not properly prepared and supported. CWS begins preparing youth for transition at age 14 using a variety of tools including:
CWS has set goals to address education; employment; finance; housing; family and friends support; and health and mental health. Learn more about this comprehensive program by viewing their presentation. Our thanks go out to Lisa and Shari for helping our team understand this important topic.
The MASSB Foundation allows for the provision of some financial support for children in foster care. Click here for ideas on how your board can help.
View the Transitioning Youth Presentation Get Foster Care Support IdeasMichael Blackwell, Advisory Board Chair
"Our Social Services Advisory Board has been operating for some years now, but we've been trying something new the last two: fundraising. As "the new kid," and perhaps especially during the pandemic, it has been a challenge to find a good event to try. We are up against much more established and well-known non-profits. As the pandemic ends, perhaps we will find our niche more effectively.
Even if you are a board member in a similar situation, however, don't be discouraged! There are many ways you can help bring visibility to the great work your county or city Social Services Division is doing."
Read MoreThe importance of vetting board applicants: during our community meetings we've talked about the importance of recruiting board members with the skills your board needs to reach its goals. Less tangible but equally important is their motivation. Occasionally we may question whether a board member is truly committed to the work of the board, or has joined for personal reasons such as bolstering their resume. We are also aware of two cases where vetting uncovered legal issues that rendered board appointments improper. A board member lacking the right motivation can become, at a minimum, a source of frustration for the entire board.
To avoid this situation, take steps to carefully vet board applicants to ensure you have the right team, for the right reasons, serving your community. It is particularly important to exercise caution with unknown applicants. You may want to document your process in your board's handbook. Click here for vetting ideas.
New Resource for Boards! MASSB Zoom account now available for use by local boards. Please contact trustee@massbfoundation.org for scheduling details.
July 15, 12pm — 2nd Qtr Financial Review
What topics would you like to see on the agenda? Let us know! trustee@massbfoundation.org
