The MASSB Minute

Greetings, everyone. As we are entering the second half of this year, I want to thank each of you for your dedication and contributions on the advisory board and within the community. Our annual conference serves as a vital platform for sharing practical knowledge and fostering collaboration, and strategic planning is our compass, guiding us to set clear, measurable goals that optimize our resources and efforts.

Volunteering stands as a cornerstone of what all of us do to address the needs of vulnerable populations. Across the state, our advisory boards lead the charge in diverse volunteer activities, each making a tangible impact on the lives of those we serve.

Best,
Tony

Our Community Meeting has been rescheduled for August 2nd at 12pm. Please join us for a one-hour virtual gathering to preview our upcoming conference and engage in round table discussion with fellow board members. (Video link will be provided prior to the meeting.)

On Saturday, April 20th, Prince George's County's Child Advocacy Center (PGCDSS CAC) hosted its first Child Abuse Awareness Walkathon in honor of Child Abuse Awareness/Prevention Month. Event attendees, PGCDSS Advisory Board members, and CAC partners enjoyed music, face painting, community vendor services and resources, and support for those seeking help. Not only did this event bring more awareness to child abuse and child advocacy centers, but it also amplified the call to action to protect children.

"I retired from federal service, spent mostly with the Department of the Navy, in 2012. I joined Calvert County's advisory board (Calvert Family Advocates) a few months before I retired. What an eye-opening experience! Having worked in the federal sector for nearly 40 years, I was nearly blind to what was happening in my own community. I had no idea so many of my neighbors were struggling — let alone how to help them.

During my 7 years with the board, I was fortunate to have worked with great team members like Karen Lane and Mark Poerio, assisting them with financial management and strategic planning. When my term with the local board expired, Mark graciously offered me the opportunity to continue my efforts as a Foundation Trustee.

We often get questions from new board chairs and members as to how they can develop their boards into highly functioning teams. Knowledge is power! In addition to learning from your Directors and their staff, the MASSB Foundation offers training opportunities for interested board members, many through the Maryland Nonprofits Association. The Foundation also offers training for new board members and board treasurers — free of charge, delivered via Zoom. There is great power in collaboration!"

Have marketing material available at your outreach events, fundraisers, or anytime you may be in contact with potential donors or board members. MASSB Foundation has produced an overview flyer for use by our boards — the images have been purchased by the Foundation and are available for your use.