Urban Views Weekly September 7, 2016

Sept. 7, 2016

Scholar of the Week - Ashanti Alford

Access to capital

may be closer than you think

Civic Beat FUNdraising Good Times

How to prepare for a board meeting Part two of a two-part series

come to meetings prepared. We asked Moss what specific information an executive director should provide to the board. He focused on five areas, noting that while the executive director may not be responsible for completing each of the tasks below, he/she should ensure they are completed. All materials should be distributed to board members a week in advance so there is time to review.

The board of directors plays a critical role in the life of a nonprofit. While each board is unique, best practices can increase a board’s effectiveness. To learn more we talked with Kim Moss, nonprofit consultant. His leadership helps boards increase their capacity for governing and fundraising. We asked Moss for recommendations regarding how often boards should meet, and why.

"While each board

TanyaFree.com/ Urban Views Weekly Poll In an effort to improve relations between the community and law enforcement, it has been suggested that police officers live where they work.

What’s your take? Should police officers be required to live in the neighborhoods they patrol?

Check out the story and respond to this week’s poll at TanyaFree.com and the Urban Views Weekly FACEBOOK Page. Listen to the Tanya Free and Friends Talk Show Wednesdays @ 2pm on WCLM1450AM streaming LIVE @ TanyaFree.com and BlackTalkRadioNetwork.com. You can now watch us LIVE at TanyaFree.com and ustream.tv

1. Minutes. These include minutes of the previous board meeting; minutes He responded, “It is my from board committees is unique, best experience that nonprofit (fundraising, program, boards are best served by board development, audit, practices can meeting monthly. I have etc.) that met prior to increase a board’s the upcoming board had experience with agency boards that only met meeting. The committees effectiveness." quarterly and found that the are responsible for taking majority of the problematic minutes; the executive issues being faced by the organization(s) director should ensure all minutes are could have been avoided if the board had distributed. met monthly to keep up to date on the 2. Meeting agenda. The board chair business of the organization. Monthly should create and distribute the meetings allow members of the board to agenda for the upcoming board remain updated about the finances and all meeting.

The executive director other important aspects of the agency. The should assist if necessary. board is the greatest asset that an executive director has, and keeping them engaged is 3. Financial statements. The executive always beneficial to everyone.” director should ensure the treasurer has the prior Most importantly, board members must continues to page 11

Ervin B. Clarke, Publisher publisher@urbanviewsweekly.com VOL. 9, ISSUE 36

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Health News

sponsored by VCU Health

September is National Sickle Cell Month

September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. First officially recognized by the federal government in 1983, National Sickle Cell Awareness Month calls attention to sickle cell disease, a genetic disease that researchers estimate affects between 90,000 and 100,000 Americans. Public awareness is key to understanding the disease and finding good solutions to improve treatment and quality of life.

Tips to Staying Healthy • Get regular checkups. Regular health checkups can help prevent some serious problems.

• Prevent infections. Common illnesses, like influenza quickly can become dangerous for both children and adults with SCD. The best defense is to get a flu shot every fall and to stay up-to-date on other immunizations.

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic, life-limiting disease in which chronic anemia, sickled red blood cells, and inflammation cause debilitating pain and fatigue, as well as long-term complications to bodily organs.

Urban Views Weekly had the opportunity to chat with Suzanne Ameringer, Ph.D., associate professor in the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Nursing’s Department of Family and Community Health Nursing.

The focus of Dr. Ameringer’s research is on biobehavioral mechanisms of symptoms and improving symptom selfmanagement in adolescents and young adults with chronic and life-threatening conditions. Ameringer’s interest in sickle cell anemia grew from when she cared for patients with the disease.

In 2015, The National Institutes of Health recognized Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Nursing for a study that is the first to examine improved approaches to self-managing exercises in adolescents and young adults with sickle cell anemia.

“Individuals with sickle cell anemia tend to be less active and fit than healthy peers. Thus they are at a greater risk for poorer health outcomes including obesity and cardiovascular problems”, Ameringer said. “Today’s adolescent and young adult generations are more active and we want to find ways and better guidelines for them to exercise and live the most normal life as possible.”

Living with sickle cell VCU3324_D2_UrbanViews_SickleCell_Ad_9_89x2.indd 1

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J. Chevonte’ Alexander

• People with SCD should drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day and eat healthy food. They also should try not to get too hot, too cold, or too tired.

• Look for clinical studies. New clinical research studies are beginning all the time at Mount Sinai and elsewhere, with the goal of finding better treatments for SCD. Study participants gain early access to experimental medicines and treatments.

“I have been a nurse for over 35 years and this is a horrible, painful disease and I have always wanted to make life better for them if I could,” she said.

Here are some facts on sickle cell:

• Get support. People with SCD should find a patient support group or other organization in the community that can provide information, assistance, and support.

• With SCD, red blood cells become hard, sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a “sickle”. They break apart easily, causing anemia and can clump and stick to the walls of blood vessels, restricting blood flow. This can result in severe pain, potential stroke and permanent damage to the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, bones and spleen.

“Sickle cell anemia is a life-limiting disease and there is a dire need to increase awareness about the disease,” comments Dr. Ameringer. “Individuals with sickle cell often feel isolated and alone because the disease is so rare, and it is up to our community to change this. There is a great need for funding for research to help improve their lives.”

• Sickle cell trait is a gene that can be carried by one or both parents. The trait itself usually doesn’t cause problems and isn’t diagnosed as a disease.

• Often thought to be discovered only in African-Americans, SCD also affects Hispanics, South Asians, Caucasians from southern Europe, and people from Middle Eastern countries.

VIDEO: Sickle Cell Anemia: A Patient’s Journey https://youtu.be/2CsgXHdWqVs

Dr. Ameringer also noted that since the disease is rare, if you know someone with sickle cell anemia or you have it yourself, we encourage you to find studies to participate in to help find better solutions to improve treatment. There is something we all can do!

chrichmond.org/sicklecell Urban Views Weekly | September 7, 2016

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ViewPoints

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By Dr. T

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The Biggest Lie Is truth absolute? Is a lie just the opposite of the truth or can it be a gradation of the truth in shades of grey, just a little bit true or a little bit false? U.S. Olympic Champion Ryan Lochte admits now that he exaggerated his story and omitted other important details, when he told a reporter for MSNBC that he and 3 of his teammates were robbed at gunpoint after a raucous night out celebrating the incredibly successful competition that the U.S. Swim Team had at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro Brazil last month. Ryan Lochte’s insatiable need for attention and a portion of the international “spotlight”, a large percentage of which had just been showered on his teammate Michael Phelps and the historic 26 Olympic medals won–of which 23 were gold–over a storied career, may have clouded his judgment when Lochte told a tall tale of a roadside robbery at gunpoint and embellished the details. Lochte has always come up short in the shadow of Phelps and, this time, in Rio he had an opportunity to become an international news story in his own right albeit away from the swimming pool.

younger athletes he left behind to ultimately face charges and pay fines in excess of 10, 000 USD, Ryan Lochte’s character and integrity have been under extreme scrutiny. He has lost lucrative sponsorships and is facing possible criminal charges and sanctions by the U.S. Olympic governing body.

It seems lying is not only overtly creating story lines that are not true, but also stretching; embellishing and slanting the story you are telling in order to produce a new version of said story fraught with falsehood. Lying is also omitting key elements of the story that, ultimately, render the whole story untrue. Most people don’t usually excuse liars out of hand or believe that all truth is “relative.”

But in Ryan Lochte’s case, many people jumped out to defend him and explain away the situation he’s in by not telling the truth and intentionally misleading media and government authorities. The whole incident was “poo poo’d” as just some kids out for some fun, celebrating the Olympics. Ah… the privilege, to be considered “just a kid” when you are 32-years-old, not to mention this Unfortunately, the “story” did not play out as expected is not your first Olympic games. Let’s just consider the when the Brazilian Police began to investigate the charges characterizations made of 12-year-old Tamir Rice when being leveled by Lochte, especially the claims that the he was gunned down within 3 seconds of police arriving perpetrators were flashing police badges and that the at his neighborhood playground because the police victims had been held up at gunpoint and made to lay deemed him to be an adult male armed and dangerous, down on the ground. Upon investigation, the Brazilian or 17- year- old Trayvon Martin unarmed walking in his authorities found huge holes in Lochte’s story and held an neighborhood wearing a hoodie, or 17-year-old Jordan international press conference to expose the fraud. Lochte Davis massacred in the backseat of a friend’s car for indeed became an international news sensation and sent playing his music too loud. All of these young males were social media into a virtual firestorm. The attention he Black and according to the people who killed them, they sought was not the kind of attention he was receiving. By presented a very real perception of danger. They did not the time the story was have the privilege to be sent around the world, perceived as the children Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D. Lochte had left Brazil that they actually were, and his teammates but Ryan Lochte at 32 is Founder and Artistic Director behind to face the police considered “just a kid” The Conciliation Project and Associate Professor and the press. Given having a fun night out?

Virginia Commonwealth University his age of 32, and the That is the biggest LIE. DrT@Margins2theCenter.com | www.theconciliationproject.org

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Urban Views Weekly | September 7, 2016

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Family Features

Courtesy California Table Grape Commission

Better Boxed Lunch and After-School Snack Ideas Making food fun is a simple way to get kids excited about smart eating. Bring on the fun this back-to-school season with bento box lunches: a selection of kid-size portions filled with bite-size finger foods.

a wide range of boxfriendly items, such as sandwiches, crackers and cheese, nuts and yogurt.

Bento box-style eating is gaining popularity among both adults and kids, because it makes it easy to manage portion sizes, and is a great way to encourage variety at mealtime. Learn how to create a bento box that will make your child the envy of the lunch table with these tips: • Choose a container with ample space for a variety of foods. Some containers feature detachable units, which can be handy for changing up your configuration.

• When it comes to filling your box, the more creative your approach, the better.

Mix and match colors and textures for a well-rounded, fun and flavorful meal.

Because they require no chopping, peeling or coring, fresh grapes are an easy addin to bento box lunches. Healthy, great tasting and refreshing, they pair well with

• Get kids involved by turning lunch assembly into age-appropriate education. Little ones can practice their colors, while older kids can put math skills to use by counting, adding and subtracting.

• Invest in a few simple tools to boost the fun factor. Cookie cutters transform boring sandwiches into exciting nibbleworthy shapes. Silicone baking cups are ideal for smaller items if you’re using a container without dividers (and they add a colorful touch to the divider styles, too).

After school, put a fresh twist on favorites, such as pizza, with ingredients that pair well and can be easily assembled. This Chocolate Pizza features a hazelnut spread and red grapes, which add a burst of juicy flavor and freshness.

Find more recipes to make lunchtime fun time, as well as snacks to fuel up for homework and other after-school activities, at grapesfromcalifornia.com.

Chocolate Pizza with Grapes Servings: 4 4

small (4-inch) whole-wheat pocket-less pita bread rounds

1/4 cup chocolate hazelnut spread 1

cup halved red grapes

Spread each pita with chocolate hazelnut spread then top with grapes. Serve. www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

Optional: Heat broiler to high. Broil pita bread on both sides until lightly toasted, about 2 minutes per side then top with chocolate hazelnut spread and grapes.

Serve.

Nutritional information per serving: 216 calories; 4 g protein; 34 g carbohydrates; 8 g fat (33% calories from fat); 2 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 3 mg cholesterol; 138 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.

Freshman Enrollment at Virginia State University Climbs 30 Percent From the west coast to the east coast, Virginia State University (VSU) welcomed nearly 1,000 new freshmen to the Land of Troy. The Class of 2020 represents a 30 percent increase from last year’s freshman class.

“We are excited to welcome our newest members to the Trojan family,” said VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah. “It’s a new year and a new season for Virginia State University. I am confident that our faculty and staff will assist the Class of 2020 and the rest of the Trojan student body succeed and transform their academic experience beyond their dreams and aspirations. We pride ourselves as a university whose role is to provide a transformative experience for our students and embrace our role as Virginia’s opportunity university.” The Class of 2020 is the first class under Abdullah’s administration.

The increase in the freshman enrollment is attributed to the dedication and hard work of the University’s Office of Enrollment Services to distinguish VSU as students’ college of choice.

“I am thrilled so many students have chosen Virginia State University this year,” said Rodney Hall, executive director of Enrollment Services. “These students were attracted to VSU’s dedication to the undergraduate learning

experience and a faculty and staff dedicated to their success.”

According to Hall, in addition to the Class of 2020, VSU welcomes more than 40 new international students, which is the University’s largest group of international students ever.

“Our number of new students is quite an accomplishment in a challenging and competitive environment,” Hall said. “We can credit this to a number of new creative initiatives across the board as well as the dedication and hard work of our admissions, financial aid and other departments university-wide.”

To ensure the Class of 2020 and the rest of the VSU student body is challenged academically, culturally and socially, the Division of Student Success and Engagement has implemented a weekly Lyceum series. Every week, students are exposed to speakers, activities and events designed to enrich their overall education experience. Another key component to ensure academic excellence for students is the new Academic Center for Excellence, better known as ACE. The center, which is housed in the University library, was created to serve as a one-stop shop for orientation, student success and engagement by providing academic advising and support.

Urban Views Weekly | September 7, 2016

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SOCIAL CAPITAL... Think of the C Have you ever considered that gathering for a “talk” or a “chat” could add value to your business or personal plans for growth and development? When you think of networking and power collaborations do you view them as strictly within the purview of “Big Ballers and Shot Callers”? Do you ever ponder what contribution you could make to solve some of the problems you care about? If your answer to any of these questions is YES, then you’ll be interested in learning about the concept of “Social Capital” and how you can leverage your knowledge and social connections to make a significant contribution to your community and become one of its problem solvers!

What is ‘Social Capital?’

Investopedia defines Social Capital as an economic idea that refers to the connections between individuals and entities that can be economically valuable. Social networks that include people who trust and assist each other can be a powerful asset.

These relationships between individuals and companies can lead to a state in which each thinks of the other when something needs to be done. As defined, at the heart of social capital is relationship, engagement, and trust. Examples of Melvin and Pearl Shaw social capital abound. Your friend’s recommendation of you for a position that you are hired for; a reference from a neighbor that encourages someone to use your small business; or an opportunity to make a purchase at a premium rate because of the knowledge of a co-worker are all openings presented as a result of social capital.

Visionaries have used this approach to socializing (and problem solving) for centuries! Prominent political social mavens like Perle Mesta, a Washington, DC socialite during the 40s through the 60s, and RVA’s own Thomasina T. Binga, a socialite and nonprofit business adviser, were both sought after consultants 6

Urban Views Weekly | September 7, 2016

due to their social connections, knowledge of “those in the know” and ability to attract them to social and business gatherings. During those mixers many financial deals were born, perfect social matches were made, and collaborations were solidified during lunch and dinner, coffee and dessert. The power of the “chat” has been a proven technique for making connects that has ignited fires in the realms of business, politics, and social engineering.

Recently, in a conference room at Urban Views Weekly, publisher Ervin Clarke introduced four groups of change makers in a comfortable and casual atmosphere which served as a birthing room of possibilities. Melvin and Pearl Shaw of Saad and Shaw, a Memphis Tn. based consulting firm focused on fundraising, business growth and development, and board development of nonprofits and institutions, were introduced to Kimberley Martin, founder of the KLM Scholarship Foundation (her organization funded 33 book scholarships this year valued at $ 35,000); representatives of Girls For A Change, an RVA based non-profit focused on the inspiration and advancement of black girls and other girls of color; and met in person for the first time their clients Anthony and Sonya Ray of the HBCU Nation Radio show, the only syndicated talk show in America that exclusively promotes HBCU Excellence, Innovation and Sustainability.

With great expectancy and excitement, all present were treated to an overview of the work of the principals of Saad and Shaw, their business focus and mission and a snippet of the rich experience and advice they have offered clients as captured in their three books

Prerequisites for Fundraising Success, The Fundraiser’s Guide to Soliciting Gifts: Turning Prospects into Donors, and FUNdraising Good Times Classics, A collection of Nonprofit Advice Columns VOL. 1. Their focus on relationship, grassroots and hard work captivated those in attendance and enhanced the electric atmosphere of the gathering.

Kimberly Martin wowed those gathered with a humble and powerful description of the formation of her KLM Foundation which has distributed $184,100 in book scholarships to college students since 2002. Her description of her sponsors and supporting corporate partners dovetailed with the Shaw’s observations of successful approaches to potential funders and supporters verifying that much of the success in this sphere often relates to who you know, and who they know.

Connections that you Make as Assets

By Freida Ann McNeil

those in the room to view Patton’s TED Talk as further evidence of the potential of the organization and its alignment with current trends in national policies regarding the empowerment of Black women and girls.

Discussion of GFAC programs including Girl Action Teams, Date With Dad, and CAMP DIVA (which is currently based at Virginia Union University), segued into discussion of the Ray’s HBCU Nation Radio Show (broadcast nationally on SIRIUS XM Channel 142 –MonWed-Fridays and on Saturday mornings between 9:00 am and 12:00 noon on WRVS 89.9).

Anthony Ray, the Creator, Producer and Host of The HBCU Nation Radio Show discussed the power of radio. He also shared an example of the success of a social capital networking experience he had in the late ‘80s in Chattanooga, TN where the outcome of the meetings of a local Preacher, Police Chief, Politician, Philanthropist and a Program person laid the foundation for the transition of the region from an industrial base (at the time of the collapse of the steel industry) to a community with diverse commercial interests and a booming economy. Both Anthony and Sonya Ray commented with enthusiasm on the value of the support of the Shaws as they developed their radio business and noted with pride their high regard for Saad and Shaw’s regular contributions to The HBCU Nation Radio Show via popular segments focused on HBCU Philanthropy and Fundraising. Mr. Ray noted that a recent agreement with The African American Public Radio Consortium makes The HBCU Nation Radio Show, the fastest growing and one of

the most highly regarded media properties in the HBCU community and all of Black radio.

As the meeting closed, Mr. Clarke encouraged all present to continue to be in contact and to focus on their connections, on supporting each other, and sharing newly gained information about those in attendance with others who might benefit from the update. He encouraged the group to continue to be aware of the potential of social capital and networks as a successful business development and management strategy, and expressed delight with the outcomes of the meeting.

Social Capital

Carolyn Robinson, Treasurer of the Girls For A Change (GFAC) Board of Directors shared with the group the story of the beginnings of Girls For A Change in Richmond which was born of collaboration between Richmond’s CAMP DIVA program founder, Angela Patton, and leaders of Girls For A Change out of California. She noted that the overlap of passion, excellent outcomes and devotion to girls of color served as the foundation of a merger which has brought the headquarters of Girls For A Change to Richmond and has positioned the organization to move to the next level across the nation, focused on helping black girls reach their full potential. Robinson also commented on the recent involvement of Angela Patton and Girls For a Change in the work of the White House Council on Women and Girls, and GFAC’s recent participation in the first United State of Women Summit.

She encouraged

A spirited exchange of e-mail addresses, telephone numbers and business cards followed Mr. Clarke’s remarks and the newly introduced groups spent time offering ideas and suggestions to each other regarding potential business opportunities and connections. All agreed to stay in touch, each group thanked Mr. Clarke for his vision and hospitality, and after taking photos to document the gathering, filed out of the room bursting with energy, anticipation and a future focus. KaChing…!

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How to Guide

How to Choose Roofing Materials The materials you pick for a new roof or to replace a damaged or worn-out roof can make a big difference in both looks and durability in the long run. Here is a look at some of your choices.

Wood Shingles

Another unusual, but stylish, choice is wood shingles.

This traditional roofing material takes more time and skill to install than other options, and it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good shape. Still, for woodland cottages or coastal retreats, genuine wood can add rustic character that can’t come any other way.

Asphalt Shingles

The most common type of roofing in America, by far, is asphalt shingles. They’re available in a wide variety of colors and styles to suit your taste and budget, and they’re popular for a reason: a great bang for your roofing buck.

Imitations

Because of the cost and weight of slate and the drawbacks of natural wood shingles, some companies have begun manufacturing cement-like imitations that last longer and typically cost less. Local building rules in many areas, especially in the West, have banned wood shingles because of fire danger.

When you pick an asphalt shingle roof, there are three things to consider. One, of course, is the color. You’ll want to pick a color that works well with your home’s design, complementing the bricks and paint. A good roofing company can help make design suggestions, but ultimately the decision will be up to your personal taste.

Two, you can pick different textures for the shingles. One popular option is the “architectural shingle” roof that uses thicker layers to create shadows and a sense of depth that looks better than the traditional, flatter, thinner shingles do. They often come with a longer warranty — up to 30 years — and don’t cost a whole lot more than regular shingles.

And three, you should pay close attention to the warranty.

Make sure you pick an installer with a great track record with customers, a long time in business and a guaranty of their work, including installing the materials according to the manufacturer’s warranty specs.

www.UrbanViewsWeekly.com

Slate

A much pricier — and hence rarer — choice for roofs today is slate. This natural rock is almost indestructible as a roofing material, often surviving 80 years or more and lasting longer than the fasteners that hold it in place.

While its cost keeps it limited to high-end homes, the classy look and unsurpassed durability of slate roofs makes this a timeless choice. Just make sure you plan ahead, because slate roofs need extra strong framing to hold up their heavy weight.

Use of “fake” wood shingles is becoming more common as homeowners want the look of a traditional roof while still meeting modern fire safety standards. They’re also far more durable than wood. Imitation slate roofs have also been gaining in popularity because they cost and weigh about a third less than natural slate. From the street, viewers might not be able to tell the difference, but your wallet sure can.

Metal

Metal roofs have been a popular option in rural America for decades. Metal roofing offers great value because it has a longer lifespan than traditional roofing materials and is easy for professionals to install.

Continues to Page 11

Urban Views Weekly | September 7, 2016

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Scholar of the Week

By Janeal Downs

Because of her own personal experiences, Ashanti Alford was inspired to make a difference as a counselor who works with troubled teens and married couples. “I have seen situations where children tend to act out as result of parents divorcing,” Ashanti stated in an essay. “Simply, this becomes a call for help which most families do not understand.” Going through her own situations when she was younger, Ashanti knows the feeling of not having someone to confide in. She wants to be that person for adolescents in the future.

Ashanti Alford

of Armstrong High School GPA: 3.8 College of Interest: Old Dominion University Major Community Service: Tutoring, Pocahontas State Park Clean Up, Camp Diva Makeover Day, etc.

Strong Interests: Psychology and Counseling Favorite Activities: Singing and working

her school’s choir and show choir. She enjoys singing so much; in fact, it is one of her favorite activities. She sings modern day music and she used to sing opera. Her other favorite activity is working. Ashanti currently works at City Hall for Richmond Public Schools. With this job she has been able to improve her customer service skills and “really learned how to be professional, especially with answering the calls.”

Outside of extracurricular, working and school she also volunteers. She volunteers for Parks & Recreation where she is a homework tutor and supervises the children when they go outside to play. She has also helped with Pocahontas State Park Clean Up, Camp Diva Makeover Day and THINKPINK Organization. In the past, she worked with the Mayors Youth Academy Life Stage Program in their culinary arts and cosmetology programs.

In order to accomplish her goal of becoming a counselor, Ashanti plans to attend Old Dominion University and major in psychology. At first she wanted to go to a school in North Carolina, but she decided to instead stay in Virginia. One of the reasons ™ ek e W e why she chose ODU over other unih t f o versities is because of the school’s popularity and its science program.

The program even has a science community with mostly students Going to college will offer Ashanti a way to not only find a in majors such as psychology and biology. “College will be the catalyst to turning my dream into a reality,” Ashanti stated. “The career but also a way to provide for her family. Because she 15 page research papers, 2-3 hours of homework and late nights works hard to take care of her children, Ashanti’s mom is one of her biggest inspirations in life. Not only does she have goals of of studying all helped me get this far.” providing for her family but also giving back to those who need While she is still in high school, she maintains a 3.8 GPA. One assistance. “I’m very determined and I won’t let anybody knock lesson she will take with her to college is to make sure she takes my dreams,” Ashanti said. “I make strides to be the best that I studying seriously. In the past she played Volleyball and she is in can at all times.”

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FUNdraising from page 2

month’s financial statements before the finance committee meeting. The treasurer will present the financials to the committee for review and, upon committee approval, will send them to the entire board.

4. Executive director’s report. This should provide an overview of the agency’s activities since the last board meeting, highlighting successes and challenges. Moss suggests the manager of each agency program submit a report that includes information about the number of people served, and an update on the program’s scope of services.

5. Grants management report. This should document spending of grant funds on a monthly basis, the cumulative amount spent to date, and the amount left to be spent in the contract period. It is easy for an organization to get ‘off track’ with spending: overspending can be detrimental to the agency’s financial health, and underspending on a contract signals to funders that funds are not really needed or are being poorly managed.

Bottom line: Board members need a clear understanding of the agency’s financial, programmatic, contractual and fundraising activities, and enough information to provide meaningful oversight.

Learn more about Kim Moss and his services at (901) 272-0855 or MossConsulting1@gmail.com.

Copyright 2016 – Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw are authors of the new book FUNdraising Good Times Classics Vol. 1 now available on Amazon.com. For help growing your fundraising, visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

Tip of the Week from page 9

With proper maintenance and optimal conditions, metal roofing will cover a building almost indefinitely.

The cost of metal roofing can vary widely, though, depending on what metal it’s made from and how it’s put together. Metal roofing comes in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, copper, zinc or an alloy of multiple metals. There are also varying grades and thicknesses.

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