Home: Publications: Forum Archives: MFF Forum, edition 6
MFF Seeks Board Members

by Claudia Day, MFF Board Member

Two years ago, when I learned that Judy Jones was looking for volunteers to join the newly forming board of directors, I remember sending her an email asking something like, "Are you looking for ordinary people or someone with specific qualifications? I would like to volunteer, but I don’t want to take a space that someone more qualified could fill." I had already been working with Judy on a fundraising idea, so I was delighted when she wrote back to say that I wasn’t ordinary and to send in my application.

It took a while to get started, but finally the board held its first meeting in November 2002, and has met regularly (in person or by conference call) ever since then. We’ve accomplished far more than I ever expected we would, and I’m amazed at how much an ordinary person such as I have been able to contribute.

Why did I join the board? Because I am going to have this disease for a long time. Because I do have some time to devote to it. Because I’m embarrassed to tell people the name of my disease and this offered a chance to change it. Because I’m inspired by the dedication of Judy Jones, as well as the other board members.

Because I can.

The truth is, we’re pretty much all "ordinary" people on the board (no offense intended to the others). What sets us apart is the time and effort we’ve volunteered. What is NOT ordinary is the collective accomplishments of this ordinary group of people. But the current board is too small to do it all. If you would like to give it a try, please go to the MFF website and fill out the application, or contact Judy for more information.

We have work to do.