MINNESOTA WOMEN OF TODAY PLAN OF ACTION SERVICE ~ GROWTH ~ FELLOWSHIP

Transcription

1 MINNESOTA WOMEN OF TODAY PLAN OF ACTION SERVICE ~ GROWTH ~ FELLOWSHIP

2 Minnesota Women of Today Plan of Action Compiled by: Debbi R. Benke Distributed: August 2018 Printed by: Staples Printing Company A special thank you to the following organizations and individuals who recognize the importance of this valuable resource and who have contributed towards its completion: District Directors Brenda Sather, State President Morris Women of Today State Program Managers Greenbush Women of Today St. Michael/Albertville WT Roseau Women of Today Jenise Teske, Priority Area SPM Aitkin Women of Today Debbi Benke, Secretary Shelli Struzyk, COB Madelia Women of Today Coon Rapids WT Melrose Area Women of Today Sauk Rapids WT Anoka Women of Today Brainerd Lakes Women of Today Katie Castro, Exec. Director Monticello Women of Today MNWT Foundation I encourage all chapters and districts to use this Plan of Action as a useful resource tool throughout this year. It contains history about the Minnesota and US Women of Today, information on orientations, officer and new member installation, extensions, committees, programming areas, Foundation, Key Women, the state calendar, the budget, chapter rosters, and our bylaws and policies. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the members of the Minnesota Women of Today who assisted with the completion of the Plan of Action. A very special thank you goes out to Katie Castro and Brenda Sather for their guidance and assistance in compiling this information. Please use the information contained in these pages, and join President Brenda Sather and her staff as they Lead the Way for members of the Minnesota Women of Today. Debbi R. Benke State Secretary

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS State President's Letter... State Staff Roster 2018/ State Program Managers 2018/ District Directors 2018/ National Staff 2018/ State President Plan of Action... Administrative Vice President Plan of Action... Membership Vice President Plan of Action... State Growth Plan... Chapter Management Vice President Plan of Action... Internal Vice President Plan of Action... Internal State Program Managers... External Vice President Plan of Action... External State Program Managers... Extensions Director State Plan of Action... Secretary Plan of Action... Parliamentarian Plan of Action... Chairman of the Board Plan of Action... Proposed State Budget 2018/ Executive Council Budget 2018/ Future Directions Plan of Action... Membership Committee Plan of Action... Marketing Committee Plan of Action... State Calendar Convention and State Meeting Schedule... State Map of Districts and Chapters... State Organization... Extending a New Chapter... State Programming... Guidelines for bidding for a State Program Manager Position... State Priority Bid Guidelines... Three-Year Programming Review Process... Manual Review Schedule... Glossary of Terms... State Committees... Strategic Plan... State Resources... MNWT Foundation... Protocol for Visiting State Officers and Program Managers... New Member Orientation... Officer Installation Ceremony... State Organizational History... National Organizational History... Organizational Leadership... Key Women Award... Key Women Listing... Chapter Directory 2018/ Minnesota Women of Today Bylaws... Minnesota Women of Today Policies Gold Section Tan Section Green Section

4 Dear Minnesota Women of Today, I am honored to be serving you as the 69 th State President of the Minnesota Women of Today. The Staff and I have been working diligently since election to evaluate, review and discuss almost every detail of this organization. We do ask you to be patient with us as we figure out a few bugs along the way but will assure you that we will continue to work hard on the commitment we made during the elections concerning streamlining and improving this organization. Please understand that it doesn t happen overnight but we are confident that after a period of assessment, we will be able to come out with some impactful resolutions with the help of the committees of this organization as well as YOU. My number one objective is to improve the communication so please do not hesitate to contact me directly. I read and answer every that comes to me. Speaking of communication, this Plan of Action is a critical tool for you. It is intended to be a reference guide for your chapter. There are many items included in this document to help you throughout the year. I encourage you to keep this plan of action with you at meetings and refer to it often. Included in the Plan of Action is the master calendar for our year, member orientation outlines, renewal ceremony and officer installation scripts, rosters of State Staff, State Program Mangers, District Directors and National Staff as well as state committee information. The colored pages in the back contain a listing of all chapters with contact information and state bylaws and policies. You may have noticed my logo above. I like to share why I chose the arrow within my logo. The arrow is simple and to the point which reflects my vision for the next year. We have heard from the membership that many areas we promote are too complicated or there is too much paperwork. The Staff this year is working hard already to address some of these concerns and will continue to build on achieving a more simplistic platform that has been started in these last few years. The arrow also gives us a point of direction, and although we learn from the past, it reminds us to be looking forward. There are many opportunities for each of you, as members, to make an impact on the Minnesota Women of Today and to help Lead the Way this next year. Please make sure to check out the website at mnwt.org or like the MNWT President Facebook page. I will be promoting not only programming events, calendar reminders, celebrations of chapter successes but something new this year...state wide socials. In closing, thank you for having the confidence in me to serve you this next year. Please feel free to contact me directly at the or phone number listed above. Brenda K. Sather President Minnesota Women of Today Page 1

5 President Brenda Sather P.O. Box 27 Greenbush, MN MINNESTOA WOMEN OF TODAY STATE STAFF ROSTER 2018/2019 Administrative VP Cindy Umland 400 River Ave. S. Apt. #211 Sauk Rapids, MN Membership VP Anna Nichols 5745 Zane Ave. N. Crystal, MN Chapter Management VP Illeana Miller 6024 Badger St. Monticello, MN Extensions Director Heidi Westerlund th Lane Aitkin, MN Parliamentarian Barb Zeroth th Ave. N. Foley, MN parliamentarian@mnwt.org External Programming VP Cindy Golbuff th St. Albert Lea, MN evp@mnwt.org Interim Financial VP Julie Hammel Junkite St. NW Ramsey, MN fvp@mnwt.org Chairman of the Board Shelli Struzyk P.O. Box 84 Sauk Rapids, MN cob@mnwt.org Internal Programming VP Stephanie Putzier ¼ Street SE Rochester, MN ivp@mnwt.org Secretary Debbi Benke 744 Old Ridge Rd. Greenbush, MN secretary@mnwt.org Executive Director Katie Castro P.O. Box Eden Prairie, MN csc@mnwt.org Presidential Assistant Christine Sibilleau th Avenue Roseau, MN pa@mnwt.org Page 2

6 MINNESOTA WOMEN OF TODAY STATE PROGRAM MANAGERS 2018/2019 Community Connections SPM Kathy Hansen 5545 Lander Ave. Albertville, MN Women s Wellness SPM OPEN ww@mnwt.org NEWSLET SPM OPEN newslet@mnwt.org Priority Area-Wishes & More SPM Jenise Teske th Ave. NE Spring Lake Park, MN priority-area@mnwt.org Living & Learning SPM Melissa Redzuan Alise Place Eden Prairie, MN ll@mnwt.org Public Relations SPM OPEN pr@mnwt.org Youth of Today SPM Sharla Kilen th St. Greenbush, MN yt@mnwt.org Records & Recognition SPM OPEN rr@mnwt.org Page 3

7 MINNESTOA WOMEN OF TODAY DISTRICT DIRECTOR ROSTER 2018/2019 District 01 Director Ginny Avenson 110 Kendall Ave. N. Thief River Falls, MN District 04 Director Shellie Lemmerman State Highway 28 Alberta, MN District 07 Director Tawn Hanson th Ave. N. New Hope, MN District 10 Director Alyce Collins State Highway 4 Saint James, MN dd10@mnwt.org District 02 Director Liz Weigel st Ave. SE Baudette, MN dd02@mnwt.org District 05 Director Michelle Kocak-Jones 2320 Eastwood Circle Monticello, MN dd05@mnwt.org District 08 Director Mary Kaminski 445 Shelard Parkway Unit 102 St. Louis Park, MN dd08@mnwt.org District 11 Director Sheila Geier 222 S. Main St. PO Box 517 Pine Island, MN dd11@mnwt.org District 03 Director Joanne Larson (Jo Jo) State Highway 47 Aitkin, MN dd03@mnwt.org District 06 Director Melanie Chenoweth 1002 Queens Lane Anoka, MN dd06@mnwt.org District 09 Director OPEN-1 st Trimester Contact New Ulm Women of Today PO Box 86 New Ulm, MN dd09@mnwt.org Page 4

8 NATIONAL STAFF ROSTER 2018/2019 President Laura Gaylord 1002 North German Street New Ulm, MN Membership Vice President Cindy Sanders 4111 Emerson Rd Duluth, MN Programming Vice President JoAnn Miller th Ave SW Rochester, MN Chairman of the Board Nicky Anderson 1005 Park Avenue, NE Staples, MN Extensions Director Lisa Hahn th Ave NE Sartell, MN extensions@uswomenoftoday.org Domestic Violence Awareness Program Manager Michelle McGowan PO Box 453 Byron, MN dva@uswomenoftoday.org Secretary Angelina Dietz 205 Dawn Drive Nashua, IA secretary@uswomenoftoday.org Public Relations Director Dina Self Cascara Rd Branchard, OK prdirector@uswomenoftoday.org Health and Wellness Program Manager Laura Bentley 271 South Water Ave New Hampton, IA hw@uswomenoftoday.org Treasurer Jane Hanson th Ave Madelia, MN treasurer@uswomenoftoday.org Presidential Assistant Colleen Todd 4845 Quaker Lane N Plymouth, MN pa@uswomenoftoday.org Personal Development STEP Program Manager Theresa Johnson 4200 Banner Rd Noble, OK pdstep@uswomenoftoday.org Parliamentarian Hillari Zweibohmer Washington Circle Omaha, NE parli@uswomenoftoday.org Webmaster Chellie Funsch webmaster@uswomenoftoday.org Page 5

9 A. Improve communication channels between National, State, District and Local levels 1. Attend all National Conventions, State Conventions, and visit each District at least once during the year. 2. Create and maintain a communication chart that identifies each chapter and district monthly submissions as well as state officer submissions to their national counterpart. 3. Respond to each and every monthly report that is submitted from a chapter or district with a positive note and ensure that I connect with them to let them know their reports are received and appreciated. 4. After Trimester 1, review those chapters and districts not submitting reports and reach out to them via phone, or personal note to inquire why and how State can help. 5. Work on a system to identify those chapters who are not utilizing their chapter s as this is a significant communication source. a. Engage the help of the District Directors in a test experiment. 6. Utilize the recently developed membership system so that communication can go directly to the members rather than just to the chapters. a. Work with staff to develop general group guidelines to prevent oversaturation or confusion with chapter s. 7. At least weekly, post on social media items concerning deadlines, general information, or get to know me posts. 8. Add a section in the state Chapter Mailing that identifies and promotes the National level in order to bring more awareness to members of the value of the portion of their dues that go to National. 9. Organize and promote state wide social events. a. Scrapbooking/Craft Retreat in October. b. Books with Brenda online zoom book club each trimester. 10. Replace some of the staff meetings typically held, such as staff training and staff campout, with monthly zoom staff and membership team meetings creating a more consistent flow of communication with limited travel and expense. 11. Utilize social media especially Facebook live events to promote committee meetings, conventions, and close outs. B. Achieve year end membership growth plus 9 1. Work with the membership team with a focus on retention to achieve the growth goal. a. Goal of 80% overall retention level by year end. 1. Work with the Membership Vice President and Membership Management Committee Chair to develop a new member packet. 2. Continue to analyze the membership numbers to identify member statistics with a focus on retention levels for new members. b. Evaluate potential areas for extensions and strive for two new chapters/extensions completed in this year. c. Work with the Membership Vice President on implementation of a northern location for close out in addition to the traditional one held at the Chapter Service Center. C. To work with the Programming Vice Presidents to achieve participation and reporting by at least 50% of the chapters. 1. Continue to promote the new programming report form along with the reasons WHY reporting is key to the organization. a. Utilize zoom Webinars offered to chapters. b. Include copy of actual forms and explanations in Chapter Mailing just prior to due dates each trimester. c. Track those chapters who are not reporting and cross reference to social medial posts or monthly reports especially reaching out to them for this information as well as offering assistance in understanding the importance of the information and completing the forms. D. To lead the staff, utilizing my experience with companies outside of the Women of Today, toward providing recommendations by the end of the year for improvements in communication, programming and a strategic plan. 1. Participate in the programming task force led by the Internal Vice President working on plans for realignment of programming areas especially those that have not been able to be filled with programming managers over the past years. a. Recommendations to be presented to Future Directions and voted on my general membership by year end for implementation in the year. 2. Work with Chapter Management Vice President in creating a Chapter Assessment Survey that will be used by the team to evaluate what tools are being used by chapters and to gain a better understanding of where the staff needs to focus on. a. Completed by end of 1 st trimester. 3. Present final recommendations at March Planning along with clear outline of implementation and reevaluation plans with Page 6 deadlines.

10 Plan of Action Cindy Umland Administrative VP 400 River Ave S #211 Sauk Rapids, MN avp@mnwt.org Goals: 1. To sustain an open line of communication with all District Directors by contacting each one at least monthly. 2. Prepare at least five quality training sessions that educate District Directors on how to Serve in this position and lead a positive team building environment by year end. 3. To Educate all District Directors on the purpose and value in submitting a Fast Start, mid-year or year-end entry. 4. Assist State Delegates in developing and maintaining a positive attitude by holding four training sessions on how they assist and serve as liaison between the state, district and chapter by year end. 5. Inspire State Delegates to submit at least 30 Fast Start, mid-year or year-end entries. Implementation: 1. To sustain an open line of communication with all District Directors by contacting each one at least monthly. Utilization of closed Facebook group Monthly newsletters/zoom meetings with relevant content, training, reminders, and staff articles Phone calls at least once each trimester 2. Prepare at least five quality training sessions that educate District Directors on how to Serve in this role and lead a positive team building environment by year end. Annual will include some back to basics review of vital training information and importance of their role MNJOTS will include an overview of District Director operations, training in other key areas, as well as an opportunity for bonding Fall State priorities will be membership goals, mid-year evaluations, delegating and problem-solving Mid- year Leadership training and team-building will take place either in person or via zoom meeting. Winter State will be preparing for a successor, record-keeping, year-end entries future plans Annual it will be a Celebration Building a legacy, strengthening ones' district, celebrating and transferring of files 3. To Educate all District Directors on the purpose and value in submitting a Fast Start, mid-year or year-end entry by educating them on their purpose at each training session Discuss the review and judging process - emphasizing goals, implementation and results Provide links and examples to follow, as well as reminders to complete using , newsletter, Facebook Share templates and/or tools to track activities Recognize District Directors who submit entries 4. Assist State Delegates in developing and maintaining a positive attitude by holding four training sessions on how they assist and serve as liaison between the state, district and chapter Roundtable at Annual convention will consist of an introduction to being a State Delegate, Fast Start review, and encouraging them to promote excitement and fun in the organization Fall State roundtable topics will be on leadership, delegating and visitations President/State Delegate retreat will focus on serving as liason role, assisting w/teamwork, and educating on mid-year entries Motivation, membership and year-end entries will be discussed at the Winter State roundtable Encourage State Delegates to attend a roundtable at each district meeting attended Recognize an outstanding State Delegate at each district meeting attended in my position Strengthen training discussions and encourage participation Through a closed Facebook group Zoom meetings for each area throughout the year Provide relevant and educating publications 5. Inspire State Delegates to submit at least 30 Fast Start, mid-year or year-end entries Introduce Fast Start and mid-year entry forms at the Annual roundtable Promote at President/State Delegate retreat and Fall State roundtable Promote year-end entry at Winter State roundtable Provide tips and offer suggestions through s, Facebook group, publications, handouts and trimester challenges Recognize State Delegates that submit entries Page 7

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13 Chapter Management Vice President (CMVP) Plan of Action Illeana Miller 6024 Badger St Monticello MN Goals: A. Have an increase of chapters attending President and State Delegate Retreat & LOTS by 10%. B. Have 20 Chapter Presidents complete their fast starts. C. Create and implement training at 4 districts and 10 chapters and/or forum at convention. D. Assist other members of the membership team with promoting goals and challenges. E. Visit every two and under chapter at least once during the year. Implementation: A. Have an increase of chapters attending President and State Delegate Retreat & LOTS by 10% 1. Have flyers available for roundtables at conventions 2. Continue to have one day training for both events 3. Bring in new training ideas and trainers 4. Promote in Chapter Information Packets (CIPs), on Facebook, blasts, post cards to chapters, and Chapter Mailing Highlights B. Have 20 chapter Presidents complete their fast starts 1. Work with State President to ensure that information is relayed to chapters in a timely manner 2. Provide copy of Fast Start in MNJOTS CIP, post copy on Facebook page (if able to) 3. copy to all chapter presidents C. Create and implement training at 4 district and 10 chapters and/or forum at convention 1. Work with chapters to see what it is that they feel is lacking through a chapter survey 2. Deliver training via in person or zoom meeting, depending on how chapter would like it D. Assist other members of the membership team with promoting goals and challenges 1. Communicate bi-weekly with Membership Vice President and Extensions Director to see how I can assist them E. Visit every two and under chapter at least once during year 1. Reach out to the chapters to see when their meetings are and if there is anything that they feel they need/want additional training on Page 10

14 A. Goals 1. Develop recommendations for reworking the state programming areas beginning in Have a monthly online meeting with Internal State Program Managers. 3. Have 100% of Internal State Program Managers complete trimester challenges, mid-year evaluations, and year-end evaluations. B. Implementation 1. Develop recommendations for reworking the state programming areas beginning in i. Co-Chair of Future Directions Programming Task Force. ii. Work with Programming Task Force subcommittee to come up with recommendations. iii. Have a focus group among a random assortment of chapters with our recommendations. 2. Have a monthly online meeting with Internal State Program Managers. i. At MNJOTS: Coordinate a date and time that works best every month with the SPMs. ii. At MNJOTS: Have SPMs complete a survey with what training and topics they may like to see during the monthly meetings. iii. Immediately following MNJOTS: Work with Minnesota Women of Today Staff to determine a schedule for individuals to provide training at 50% of the meetings. iv. Each monthly meeting will have the following agenda items: 1. Questions 2. Concerns 3. How can I help 3. Have 100% of Internal State Program Managers complete trimester challenges, mid-year evaluations, and year-end evaluations. i. Communicate with State Program Managers through monthly newsletters, s, online meetings, and phone calls. ii. Include information on challenges, upcoming deadlines, and tips for submissions in my Chapter Information Packets. Page 11

15 Introducing your Internal State Program Managers Living & Learning Melissa Redzuan Melissa is excited to be working with the chapters and districts this year as We Live and We Learn. She will have several events happening at conventions including competitions in Effective Speaking, Effective Writing, and Impromptu. In addition, she is anxiously awaiting all of the certifications that will come spilling in throughout the year. PLUS: Don t forget to check out her Book Club Discussions! NEWSLET Open Currently this SPM position is open. The NEWSLET is the official newspaper of the Minnesota Women of Today. Every member is encouraged to submit an article to this newspaper by contacting the editor. Items included are: staff and program manager news, awards received at conventions, personal notes, chapter highlights, etc. Each member receives a copy of the publication delivered to her/his home. The NEWSLET editor will also offer tips and ideas on generating your own newsletters. Public Relations Open Currently this SPM position is open. The Public Relations programming area is the how to in utilizing your community assets: the local paper, cable network, radio, TV, and businesses. Learn ways to spread Women of Today news! Founder s Day is celebrated July 1, and Women of Today Week is celebrated in September. Day at the Diamond is also in September. Promote MNWT as one of the top ten volunteer groups to be a part of in Minnesota. This is also a USWT programming area. Records & Recognition Open Currently this SPM position is open. The Records and Recognition programming area is designed to help encourage good record keeping. Ideas for chapter histories come from this area as do awards and incentive ideas. Presidents, state delegates, and executive council members complete individual entries at the end of each year that are beneficial to the next officer in that position. The entries are judged and keys are awarded based on the accomplishments recorded in the entries. Records and Recognition also coordinates the chapter Success System submissions. Page 12

16 Goals and Implementation: A. Assist External State Program Managers (SPMs) in attaining goals for their programming areas 1. Communicate with SPMs by monthly newsletters, phone calls, s and written reminders 2. Offer trimester challenges that 85% of SPMs will meet 3. Work with SPMs to track funds raised and service hours 4. Pursue ways to educate membership about foundations at convention 5. Include information about special programming events by External Program Managers in my chapter information packet (CIP) 6. Use the website to promote external programming areas B. Have 100% of state program managers complete MNWT and USWT fast starts 1. Provide the requirements and give tips for completing fast starts at MNJOTS 2. Give reminders as needed and answer questions 3. Recognize all SPMs who complete their Fast Start with a certificate C. Working closely with the Internal Vice President (IVP) to enrich the training opportunities for all SPMs 1. Hold a brainstorming session at MNJOTS including all SPMs for project fair ideas 2. Brainstorm ideas about trainings/forums at MNJOTS and year-round as needed 3. Educate SPMs on ways to increase reporting from chapters and districts 4. Educate SPMs on use of transmittals and help to educate chapters and districts 5. Work with each SPM individually to make their CIP unique, concise and professional 6. Work with each SPM to send out LPM letters that are timely and include information not in CIP 7. Facilitate other education opportunities as requested or needed D. Communicate quarterly with each Foundation to maintain a good working relationship 1. Visit each foundation before Fall State 2. Communicate with foundations quarterly and give updates to SPMs as necessary E. Educate Programming Vice Presidents about current and new programming areas 1. Prepare a training packet to use at district orientations by MNJOTS and encourage SPMs to train as needed 2. Develop and distribute training materials on how to do a programming fair 3. Hold a forum with the Internal Vice President at a state convention 4. Develop a presentation with the IVP to promote programming areas during visitations 5. Provide information geared toward Programming Vice Presidents in each CIP 6. Inform members about programming through FB, NEWSLET articles, chapter mailings, CIP, website and visitations F. Have 10 Programming Vice Presidents complete fast starts 1. Distribute Fast Start materials in MNJOTS CIP with ideas on how to complete 2. Recognize all who complete their Fast Start at Summer Awards Page 13

17 Introducing your External State Program Managers Community Connections Kathy Hansen Kathy is hootin for Community Connections as she encourages members to become involved in their local communities. She will be working with Chapters as they nominate individuals for the Outstanding Person with Development" Award. She is excited to see the participation with True Friends/Friendship Ventures and her project of choice, Family Promise Program for homelessness. Wishes and More Jenise Teske - Wishes from the Heart Jenise is excited to be working with the Chapters and Districts to support Wishes and More. Jenise is so passionate about this priority area she went to visit them right away in May of this year! She looks forward to visiting with chapters and districts and sharing how they can promote and support Wishes and More this year. Youth of Today Sharla Kilen Sharla Kilen will lead us to Light Their Path with Youth of Today and discover how we can serve our Youth while installing the value of service within our youth. She is so connected with Youth of Today that when she was co-chairing MNWT Fall Convention her oldest, Brady was born! Sharla is excited to share with us the Girls Lead, community based leadership experience to help middle school or junior high girls with connecting them to community service organizations. We are thrilled to have Sharla as part of the Programming All Star Team! Women s Wellness- Open This SPM position is focused on providing and supporting women s health education through traditional and holistic medical practices, as well as a balanced lifestyle. This area promotes March of Dimes, The Women Who Impact Award and other health areas affecting women. Page 14

18 Find Your Way I. Goals: A. Support and guide the 2 and under chapters through visitations, training, challenges and promotion of existing Women of Today tools. B. Support and work with the Membership Team s goals. C. Support and work with the MMC Chair and US Extensions Director s goals. D. Strive to complete 2 extensions and intent to extend. II. Implementation A. Support and guide the 2 and under chapters through visitations, training, challenges and promotion of existing Women of Today tools. 1. Personal contact and visits to the 2 and under chapters by Executive Council and myself, at least three times this year. 2. Follow up with Executive Council to provide support and materials needed for training. 3. Provide trimester challenges to 2 and under chapters with incentives upon completion. 4. Promote STEP certifications and use as an orientation and activation tool. B. Support and work with the Membership Team s goals. 1. Actively recruit new members personally throughout the year for all chapters and potential chapters. 2. Work closely with CMVP on TLC chapters. 3. Work closely with MVP during closeouts, starting with calling chapters right after early bird. 4. Participate with all Membership team activities at convention and whenever needed. C. Support and work with the MMC Chair and US Extensions Director s goals. 1. Identify items on MMC and US Extensions Director s POA to help promote their goals. 2. Promote challenges from MMC Chair and US Extensions Director. 3. Provide training materials to extensions and intend to extend coming from these two areas. D. Strive to complete 2 extensions and intent to extend. 1. Identify proper personnel to help specific extensions and intent to extend. 2. Offer incentives for completed extensions and intent to extend. 3. Keep close contact with all parties involved with extensions and intent to extend. 4. Provide personal training on a regular basis for extensions and intent to extend. Page 15

19 Secretary Plan of Action 2018/2019 GOALS: A. Review Chapter Mailing (CM) format with President and staff and suggest changes in information, format, and delivery by July 1st. B. Have at least 45% of chapters participate in submitting their chapter meeting minutes for review and feedback. C. Participate in at least three (3) webinars and offer a personal development course and have at least 10% of chapter members participate. IMPLEMENTATION: A. Review Chapter Mailing (CM) format with President and staff and suggest changes in information, format, and delivery by July 1st. 1. Design "Morning Minutes with little cheery uplifting insights to the Minnesota Women of Today (MNWT) members. 2. Work with State President to make sure all necessary information is included in each CM through the use of a yearlong calendar developed by July 1st.. B. Have at least 45% of chapters participate in submitting their chapter meeting minutes for review and feedback. 1. Communicate with chapters via chapter s, CIP s and Secretary's Facebook page. 2. Offer incentives to chapters and districts that submit chapter minutes each trimester. 3. Develop and utilize a review form to evaluate submitted meeting minutes by July 1st. C. Participate in at least three (3) webinars and offer a personal development course and have at least 10% of chapter members participate. 1. Offer a book challenge to members to help break barriers to productivity, which could be fear that is keeping them from taking accurate note taking. A. Conduct a Go-To Meeting close to the end of each trimester to review the book and how to break from certain barriers. B. Reward with a personal growth year end basket at Annual Convention to active participants. Page 16

20 I. Goal A. Review at least 15 chapter and 5 district bylaws and policies by year end giving feedback within 30 days of receipt. B. Hold the State Bylaw and Policy review by December 1, 2018 with at least one member from each of the four areas. C. Provide Bullseye Challenges each trimester to chapters and districts for running efficient business meetings and tips on how to follow Robert s Rules of Order. II. Implementation A. Review at least 15 chapter and 5 district bylaws and policies by year end giving feedback within 30 days of receipt. 1. Contact chapter presidents and district directors via , through the Parliamentarian Chapter Information Packet, on the Parliamentarian Facebook page and through Chapter Mailings requesting them to send in their bylaws and policies to be reviewed. 2. Offer an incentive drawing at Annual Convention for chapters and district submitting their bylaws for review. B. Hold the State Bylaw and Policy review by December 1, 2018 with at least one member from each of the four areas. 1. Set a date and secure a location. 2. Promote attendance and offer an incentive for those attending in state publications through s and on the Parliamentarian Facebook page. 3. Offer a Go-To meeting for those that cannot travel and would like to attend. C. Provide Bullseye Challenges to chapters and districts for running efficient business meetings and tips on how to follow Robert s Rules of Order. 1. Offer Robert s Rules of Order information monthly on the Parliamentarian Facebook page and in each Chapter Information Packet. 2. Provide training on Robert s Rules of Order in state publications and on the Parliamentarian Facebook page. 3. Provide a special challenge on parliamentary procedure each trimester on the Parliamentarian Facebook page and draw for a winner at each convention. Page 17

21 Goals/Implementation A. Serve as a liaison between the Minnesota Women of Today (MNWT) and the United States Women of Today (USWT). 1. Establish an ONTO committee to promote national convention. 2. Have at least 15 members attend mid-year convention in October and 20 yearend in June. 3. Host visiting national officers at state meetings. 4. Promote USWT certifications at state meetings. B. Serve as Chair of the Elections Committee, securing president candidate on or before February 1 st, Select committee members representing each of the four (4) areas, prior to Fall State Solicit prospective staff, presidential candidate and provide guidelines and guidance for those seeking an elected position. 3. Oversee and implement the elections as governed by the MNWT Bylaws. 4. Coordinate Area Meetings, Friday night caucus and the elections meeting at Annual Convention C. Educate and assist District Directors with Area Meeting planning. 1. Meet with District Directors at Fall State, Mid-Year Exec and Winter State to plan Area Meeting location, format and publicity of event. D. Coordinate and facilitate March Planning. 1. Secure a host chapter in a central location for March Planning by 2018 Mid- Year Exec. 2. Solicit recommendations from current Exec Council and committee chairs by Winter State E. Work with Committee Chairs to provide informative and productive committee meetings. 1. Review agenda items prior to each meeting and ensure agenda/minutes are out 2 weeks prior to meeting. 2. Forward any brain storming ideas and suggestions to add to each agenda. 3. Work with committee chairs to oversee taskforce and sub-committees are meeting and ready to report at committee meetings. G. Host past presidents in attendance at state meetings. 1. Recognize and welcome the contributions of the past state presidents in attendance. Page 18

22 Minnesota Women of Today Budget Proposal Budget INCOME 40 Sales 402 State Store Sales/Taxable $5, State Store Sales/Non-Taxable $ Total 40 Sales $5, Promotionals 420 W & M Donations $2, Promotionals $2, Clothing $ Total 42 Promotionals $5, Finance Committee 4221 Finance Committee Fundraisers $5, $5, CIP/Chap Mailing Subscription State Dues $ $43, National Dues $4, Charter Fee & Extension $60.00 $48, Programming 445 Community Connections Awards $ Convention Service Project $ O/S Young Adult $ O/S PDC $ Women Who Impact $ Total 44 Programming $ Personal Enrichment $ PE Videos $ $ Conventions 450 Foundation Guests $ Winter State $8, MNJOTS $3, LOTS $1, MidYear Exec $1, Pres/SD Retreat $ USWT Convention $2, Total 45 Conventions $16, Twins Game I/O $ Nametags $ Interest $ AR Late Fees $75.00 $ Newslet 471 Personal Messages $ Newslet Returns $10.00 Total 47 Newslet $ Insurance - Chap. Liability $5, Misc. Income $ Membership Late Fee $ Annual Registration Late Fee $ Late Fee $ $6, Marketing POA/Book of Forms $1, $1, Project Fair $ Total 490 Marketing $ Page 19

23 Budget 495 National 495 ONTO $2, National Campaign $0.00 Total 495 National $2, Other 4974 E.C. Shirts (I/O) $ State Pres Gift (I/O) $ Donations - Manual Prtg $ Donations - Foundation $0.00 Total 497 Other $0.00 TOTAL INCOME $91, EXPENSES 50 National Dues $4, $4, Charter and Extension Expenses Charter Banquet Mileage Charter & Extension Exp-other $0.00 $60.00 Total 502 Charter and Extension Expenses $ New Member Packets $ New Member Packets/Gift Cert $75.00 $ Cost of Sales 5101 State Store Cost $3, Credit Card Fees $ Postage & Mailings $ State Store Mgr-Mileage $ State Store Mgr-Registration $ Total 51 Cost of Sales $3, Promotional & Fundraiser Expenses 521 W & M Promotions $ Clothing $ Finance Committee Fundraisers $0.00 Total 52 Promotional & Fundraiser Expenses $ Chapter Service Center 531 Payroll Training Exec. Dir. $ Unemployment $ FICA/Medicare Match $1, Workers Comp $ Payroll - other $18, Total 531 Payroll $20, Gen. Office Supplies $ Mileage - CSC Mileage - Conventions $ $ Office Equip. Maint. $1, Office Equip. Purchase $ Misc Small Office Equip. $ Exec. Council Equip/Maint. $ $2, Office Maint. & Supplies Telephone - CSC $1, Printing - CSC $ Postage -CSC $ Rent - CSC $5, Chapter Mailing Postage $0.00 Total 5390 Office Maint & Supplies $7, Gen. Liability Insurance $5, $5, Page 20

24 Budget 5399 Website Webmaster Services $1, Webteam - Conventions $ Website-other $80.00 Total 5399 Website $1, Awards 541 Pres. Trimester Awards $1, Year End Awards $ Exec. Council Plaques $ Membership Incentives $ Outstanding Program Mgr $ Project of the Trimester $ Success System $30.00 Total 54 Awards $2, Extension Incentives $ Extension Chapter Manuals $30.00 $ Programming Awards 5475 Evaluation Entry Judging $ Personal Enrichment $ O/S Young Adult $ Outstanding PDC $ Women Who Impact $ Total 547 Programming Awards $ Newslet Expense 551 Newslet Printing $1, Newslet Postage $1, Newslet Returns $10.00 Total 55 Newslet Expense $3, Conventions 560 Convention Guests $ Winter State $8, MNJOTS $3, LOTS $ Mid Year Exec $1, Pres/S Del Retreat $ USWT Convention Exp (host) $4, Convention Stipend $ Total 56 Conventions $18, Misc. Council 5672 Twins Game $ Convention Service Project Expense $ Nametags - Exec. Council $ Speakers $1, PR Scrapbook Total 560 Misc. Council $50.00 $1, Officer Expense Officer Expense--Communication $6, Officer Expense--Mileage $6, Total 569 Officer Expense $12, Audit $ Bad Debts $ Bank Expense $ Bonding $ Depreciation/Office Equip $ First Timers $ Gifts for Speakers & Hosts $ Legal Costs $25.00 $ Page 21

25 Budget 58 Meetings 580 Future Directions Chair $ CIPS-Marketing, MMC, FD COMM $ Mileage - Foundation Visits $ Mileage - Study Committee $ Study Committee $ Membership Mgmt. Comm $ by 2020 Comm. $ Strategic Plan. Comm. $ Manual Review Comm. $ Marketing Committee $ Total 58 Meetings $ Misc. Exp. $ Paper/Printing/Stationary $ Manual Printing $ POA & Book of Forms $1, Gold Team $ Past President Expense $ $2, National 591 USWT Convention Exp. $1, National Entry Fees $ National Campaign Fund $ ONTO $1, US Ambassador $ National Speaker Fund $ Total 59 National $3, TOTAL EXPENSES $93, TOTAL INCOME $91, TOTAL EXPENSES $93, DEFICIT -$1, NOTE: This is the budget proposal, which will be approved by Membership at Fall State. The Finance Committee will be re-evaluating and adjusting the figures in January. Page 22

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27 Future Directions Plan of Action 2018/2019 Page 24

28 Tevyan Sorensen Henning Ave Lakeville, MN Membership Management Committee Plan of Action Goals: 1. Complete creation of new Membership Training. 2. Document Leadership Training process so it can be repeated. 3. Establish and document a new member on-boarding process at the state level. 4. Enhance First Timers experience to increase attendance and participation at state and district level. Implementation: 1. Work with Membership Team to complete new Membership Training with updated and new tools and manuals as appropriate. 2. Work with Membership Team to document Leadership Training process including materials used, distribution methods & timing. 3. Develop an on-boarding process for new members that includes welcome , welcome packet of additional materials and follow-up contacts. Document as a standard process to be implemented ongoing. 4. Encourage members who have never or not recently attended Conventions to come back. Increase recognition of First Timers at Convention. Follow-up with those attending to encourage repeat attendance and let them know about other opportunities to engage at the state level. Page 25

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30 MINNESOTA WOMEN OF TODAY STATEWIDE CALENDAR 2018/2019 June 2018 Emphasis: Chapter Management (MN); Personal Development (US); Public Relations(US); STEP (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due 1-3 MNJOTS 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP 7-10 USWT Annual Convention 10 Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary MNWT Trimester Webinar Night -- Wishes and More; Nominating Members for Awards; Getting the Year off to a Great Start 30 Chapter President reports due to DD Agendas due for State Committee Meetings NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center July 2018 Emphasis: Community Connections-True Friends (MN); Public Relations (MN); Extensions (US); Membership (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due USWT Founder's Day Cheryl L. Anderson scholarship applications due to MNWT Foundation Plan of Action Contents due to State Secretary 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP 10 Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary 11 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm 14 State Committee Meetings -- 10:00 MMC 12pm Marketing and 1:30pm Future Directions -- Resurrection Lutheran Church, Monticello, MN 15 Early Bird Renewals due POSTMARKED to Chapter Service Center District Director Fast Start due to AVP Chapter President Fast Start due to DD Secretary Fast Start due to State Secretary Treasurer Fast Start due to Financial Vice President Membership VP Fast Start due to MVP SPM Fast Start due to IVP/EVP LPM Fast Starts due to SPM and DD Programming VP Fast Start due to IVP and EVP District Membership Fast Start due to DD and MVP State Delegate Fast Start due to DD & AVP District Directors call Chapter Service Center to check renewals 28 President/State Delegate Retreat -- Monticello 29 Finance Committee Meeting -- Monticello 30 MNWT Membership Monday 31 Chapter President reports due to DD NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center Key Woman nominations for Fall State due to Key Woman President Page 27

31 August 2018 Emphasis: Youth of Today (MN); Health & Wellness (US); Project Recognition (US); Domestic Violence Prevention (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due National Night Out - Night to Unite 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP USWT Friendship Day 7 National Night Out 8 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm Deadline to order Day at the Diamond tickets from PR SPM 11 MNWT Foundation meeting -- Chapter Service Center, Eden Prairie Kids Week 15 All Renewals due POSTMARKED to Chapter Service Center DD Challenge due to AVP 20 1st Tri MVP Challenge Due District Directors call Chapter Service Center to check renewals 22 "Unstuck" Secretary Book Club discussion / Go-To Meeting -- 7:00pm 31 Trimester 1 Close Out Chapter President monthly reports due to DD State Delegate Reports due to DD & AVP Programming Trimester Report due to IVP/EVP NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center Founder's Day Participation Forms due to PR SPM End of 1st Trimester Ways & Means Promotionals First Trimester Challenge due to State Parliamentarian September 2018 Emphasis: Community Connections (MN) Public Relations (MN & US), Women of Today Week (MN & US); Membership (MN); USWT Foundation (US); Personal Development (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due Project of the Trimester due to SPMs Outstanding Program Manager nominations due to SPMs All Certifications due to L&L SPM Impromptu Registration for Fall State due to Living and Learning SPM Presidential Pin and Medallion Nominations due to State President State of MN Annual Registration due to Sec. of State's Office 990N filing due to IRS (first deadline, $10 late fee assesed) Begin 2nd Trimester Ways & Means promotionals 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP 1st Trimester Success due ED to R&R SPM Fall State Convention Staff Reports due to State Secretary 7 DD and SPM Expense Vouchers due to Supervisors (AVP,IVP,EVP) 9 Day at the Diamond -- Target Field Page 28

32 10 NEWSLET articles for Post Fall State Issue due to Newslet SPM Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary SUCCESS Verifications due from Staff to RR SPM 11 President Brenda's Birthday 12 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm Expense Vouchers due to Financial Vice-President Women of Today Week 25 Newslet Personals due to Newslet SPM Fall State Convention, St. Cloud 28 MNWT Foundation meeting at convention 29 Cheryl L. Anderson Art Auction 30 Chapter President monthly reports due to DD NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center Programming Evaluations due to IVP and EVP (Records & Recognitions - including the Success System & Womens Wellness) October 2018 Emphasis: R&R (MN); Buckets of Sunshine (US); Extensions (US); Domestic Violence Awareness (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due 990N filing due to IRS ($40 late fee assessed) 5 District Director monthly report due to AVP 10 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary USWT National Mid-Year Convention -- South Dakota 19 State Policy and Bylaw Review -- TBD 24 MNWT Trimester Webinar Night -- TBD Statewide Social/Craft event -- Woodland Beach Resort 27 Make A Difference Day 29 MNWT Membership Monday 31 Chapter President monthly reports due to DD NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center November 2018 Emphasis: Women's Wellness (MN); Parliamentarian (US); Health & Wellness (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due Women Who Impact, Outstanding Young Adult and Outstanding Person with Developmental Challenges nominations due ED to Awards Committee Chair 3 MNWT Foundation meeting -- TBD 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP 7 Agendas due for State Committee Meetings 10 Mid-Year Exec -- Location TBD MId-year Evaluation due ED to R&R SPM Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary 14 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm Page 29

33 15 Early Bird Renewals due POSTMARKED to Chapter Service Center 20 2nd Tri MVP Challenge Due District Directors call Chapter Service Center to check renewals 30 Chapter President monthly reports due to DD NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center December 2018 Emphasis: Membership (US); Community Connections (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due Chapter Grant applications due to MNWT Foundation Chair Key Woman nominations for Winter State due to Key Woman President State Committee Meetings -- 10:00 MMC 12pm Marketing and 1:30pm Future Directions -- Star Bank, Eden Prairie 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP 12 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm 15 All Renewals due POSTMARKED to Chapter Service Center DD 2nd Trimester Challenge due to AVP District Directors call Chapter Service Center to check renewals 19 "Unstuck" Secretary Book Club discussion / Go-To Meeting -- 7:00pm 30 State Delegate Reports due to DD & AVP Chapter President monthly reports due to DD NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center Second Trimester Challenge due to State Parliamentarian 2nd Trimester Closeout 31 End 2nd Trimester Chapter Liability Insurance Payments due to Chapter Service Center January 2019 Emphasis: Living and Learning (MN); Personal Development (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due 4 Mid-Year Budget Review -- Sauk Rapids 5 Finance Committee Meeting -- Sauk Rapids District Director monthly reports due to AVP Programming Trimester Report due to IVP/EVP Winter State Convention Staff Reports due to State Secretary All Certifications due to L&L SPM Project of the Trimester due to SPMs Outstanding Program Manager nominations due to SPMs Effective Writing Essay due to L&L SPM Presidential Pin and Medallion Nominations due to State President Bidding SPM Plan of Action due to IVP/EVP 2nd Trimester Success due ED to R&R SPM 7 DD and SPM Expense Vouchers due to Supervisors (AVP,IVP,EVP) Page 30

34 9 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm 10 NEWSLET articles due for Post Winter State Issue to Newslet SPM Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary SUCCESS Verifications due from Staff to RR SPM 11 Expense Vouchers due to Financial Vice-President 12 MNWT Foundation meeting -- TBD Winter State Convention -- St. Louis Park 29 Newslet Personals due to Newslet SPM for Post Winter State Issue 31 Chapter President monthly reports due to DD NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center February 2019 Emphasis: NEWSLET (MN), Extensions (MN & US); STEP (US); Domestic Violence Awareness (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP MN State Sales Tax due to MN Dept of Revenue 10 Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary 13 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm 17 March Planning Reccomendations due to COB 27 MNWT Webinar -- TBD 28 NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center Chapter President monthly reports due to DD March 2019 Emphasis: STEP (MN); Membership (MN &US); USWT Foundation (US); Health & Wellness (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due 2 State Committee Meeting Agendas due Finance Committee Meeting -- TBD 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP 9 March Planning -- TBD 10 Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary Presidential Pin and Medallion Nominations for Area Meetings due to State President 13 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm 15 Early Bird Renewals due POSTMARKED to Chapter Service Center 16 State Committee Meetings -- 10:00 MMC 12pm Marketing and 1:30pm Future Directions -- TDB 20 3rd Tri MVP Challenge Due District Directors call Chapter Service Center to check renewals 22 Area 2 Meeting -- TBD 23 Area 1 Meeting -- TBD 31 Chapter President monthly reports due to DD NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center Page 31

35 April 2019 Emphasis: Volunteer Recognition/Public Relations (US); Outstanding Achievement in Programming (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due Key Woman nominations for Annual due to Key Woman President Chapter, District, SPM, and Staff scrapbook pages for President's scrapbook President Year End Gift Chapter/District donations due to PA 5 District Director reports due to AVP Area 3 Meeting -- TBD 6 Area 4 Meeting -- TBD 10 Staff Zoom Meeting-- 8:30pm National Volunteer Week 15 All Renewals due POSTMARKED to Chapter Service Center Community Connections Award Nominations due to CC SPM District Directors call Chapter Service Center to check renewals 17 "Unstuck" Secretary Book Club discussion / Go-To Meeting -- 7:00pm 26 Year End Individual Evaluations due ed to R&R SPM 27 MNWT Foundation Meeting -- TBD Year End Individual Evaluations Judging -- TBD 29 MNWT Membership Monday DD and SPM Expense Vouchers due to Supervisors (AVP,IVP,EVP) 30 End 3rd Trimester Ways & Means Promotional All Certifications due to L&L SPM Programming Trimester Report due to IVP/EVP Project of the Trimester nominations due to SPMs Outstanding Program Manager nominations due to SPMs Chapter President monthly reports due to DD Third Trimester Challenge due to State Parliamentarian NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center Trimester and Year-end Closeout President Pin and Medallion Nominations due to State President May 2019 Emphasis: Website (US); Parliamentarian (US); Community Connections (US) 1 SPM and Staff monthly reports due All Certifications due to USWT Outstanding Achievement in Programming due to USWT Programming VP 3 Expense Vouchers due to Financial Vice-President 4 LOTS -- Monticello 5 District Director monthly reports due to AVP DD Challenge due to AVP Annual Convention Staff Reports due to State Secretary Effective Speaking Registration due to L&L SPM 3rd Trimester SUCCESS due to R&R SPM Page 32

36 Newslet Articles for Post Annual Convention Issue due to Newslet SPM 8 Staff Zoom Meeting -- 8:30pm 10 Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary SUCCESS verifications dur from Staff to R&R SPM Annual Convention -- TBD 21 Newslet Personals due to Newslet SPM for Post Annual Issue 24 Finance Committee Meeting -- TBD 29 MNJOTS Staff Reports due to State Secretary 31 NMAs due IN HAND to Chapter Service Center June 2019 Emphasis: Chapter Management (MN); Personal Development (US); Public Relations(US); STEP (US) 7-9 MNJOTS (TENTATIVE) 10 Chapter Mailing Highlights due to State Secretary USWT National Year End Convention -- Duluth, MN 26 MNWT Trimester Webinar Night -- TBD Page 33

37 Convention and State Meeting Schedule Fall State 2018 Date: September 28-30, 2018 Location: Kelly Inn, St. Cloud Hosted by: District 4 Women of Today Theme: Back to School and Lookin' Cool! President/State Delegate Retreat 2018 Date: July 28, 2018 Location: St. Henry's Catholic Church, Monticello Abbreviations for "Women of Today" AVP Administrative Vice President CC Community Connections US Women of Today Mid-Year Convention 2018 Date: October 11-14, 2018 Location: South Dakota Hosted by: TBD Winter State 2019 Date: January 25-27, 2019 Location: Double Tree Park Place, St. Louis Park Hosted by: Minnesota Women of Today Theme: TBD CIP COB CSC CMVP DD DPM EVP FVP Chapter Information Packet Chairman of the Board Chapter Service Center Chapter Management Vice President District Director District Programming Manager External Vice President Financial Vice President LOTS 2019 Date: May 4, 2019 Location: Monticello Annual Convention 2019 Date: May Location: TBD Hosted by: TBD Theme: TBD IVP Internal Vice President LL Living and Learning LOTS Local Officer Training Sessions MNJOTS Minnesota June Officer Training Session MNWT Minnesota Women of Today MVP Membership Vice President NMAs New Member Adds MN JOTS 2019 Date: June 7-9, 2019 Location: Arrowwood Lodge, Brainerd Lakes US Women of Today National Convention Date: June 13-16, 2019 Location: TBD Hosted By: Minnesota Women of Today PR RR SPM USWT WW YT Public Relations Records and Recognition State Program Manager United States Women of Today Women's Wellness Youth of Today Page 34

38 State Map of Districts and Chapters Page 35

39 State Organization Ever wondered what makes up the state organization? The state organization is YOU and all the other members like you! The Minnesota Women of Today is made up of chapters all over the state, with members just like you. The chapters are all configurations and sizes, but they are all bound together with a common goal: to leave the world a better place! When the local chapter plays an active role within the state organization, we become strong. If chapters choose not to become active, we are weakened. One good way to become active in the state organization is to get to know the state executive council and to use them to offer the best opportunities for your chapter. Other good ways to become familiar with the workings of our state organization include: attending state meetings where your ideas can be expressed and where you can exercise your right to vote; reading and becoming familiar with the state plan of action, bylaws and policies; and sharing information about the programming areas with your local chapter. As you familiarize yourself with the workings of our state organization, and as you get to know the people on the executive council, remember to let them help you to serve your communities, your chapter and your members better. They are willing to help -- all you need to do is ASK! Communication Cycle Communication Is The Key! Listed below is the communication cycle used by the organization to effectively serve your chapter. The arrows in the communication cycle indicate how the information within our organization moves in two directions: from local to district to state, and from state to district to local. Each of the steps in between is important and needed! Chapter Status Information Local Chapter President & State Delegate District Director Administrative Vice President Programming Information Local Chapter Local Program Manager District Program Manager State Program Manager Internal or External Vice President State President State President Executive Council Structure The executive council of the Minnesota Women of Today has the same purpose as the local chapter s board of directors. The council meets prior to each state meeting and may take action on policies, make recommendations, and discuss items of importance to all levels of the organization. The executive council consists of the following: State Staff State President - elected each May; presides at meetings of this corporation; supervises activities undertaken by this corporation; is an ex officio member of all committees. Administrative Vice President - appointed position; supervises district directors and state delegates; serves on Future Directions committee. Page 36

40 Membership Vice President - appointed position; is the administrator of membership and state s growth plan; and serves on the Membership Management Committee. Chapter Management Vice President - appointed position; is in charge of TLC chapters; supervises Gold Team; promotes the use of chapter management tools; coordinates LOTS; and serves on the Membership Management Committee. Internal Vice President - appointed position; is administrator of internal programming; supervises four (4) internal state program managers; serves on the Marketing committee and as an ex-officio member of the Finance committee. External Vice President - appointed position; is administrator of external programming; supervises four (4) external state program managers; serves on Future Directions committee; is liaison between MNWT and foundations; serves on MNWT Foundation Board. Extensions Director - appointed position; assists chapters with extensions process; follows through with newly extended chapters; promotes chapter extensions; serves on the Membership Management Committee and is a member of the MNWT Foundation Board. Secretary - appointed position; records and distributes minutes of all meetings; compiles Chapter Mailings, State Plan of Action (POA) and Book of Forms. Parliamentarian - appointed position; oversees parliamentary procedure at meetings of the corporation; responsible for review of state bylaws and policies; serves on the Future Directions and the Credentials committees. Chairman of the Board - immediate past president; chairs the Elections committee; serves as historian for MNWT; is the liaison between the USWT and MNWT; chairs the ONTO committee for national conventions; serves on the Future Directions committee; oversees statewide committees. Financial Vice President - helps with the preparation of state budget; chairs the Finance committee; supervises State Store Manager; serves on MNWT Foundation Board and the Future Directions committee. Executive Director - permanent position; serves as a resource for chapters through the Chapter Service Center; serves on the Future Directions, Finance and Foundation committees. Presidential Assistant - appointed position; assists state president in any activities deemed necessary; compiles executive council directory. State Program Managers Other state program managers are selected by executive council through bidding process. They promote participation and provide information for their areas. District Directors These leaders are elected at the winter district meeting or at a special meeting at the end of the year by chapters in each district. They supervise and assist chapters in the district and preside over district meetings. Page 37

41 Extending a New Chapter One of the greatest challenges and rewards in our organization is starting a chapter in a new community doing an extension. In choosing to work on a new chapter extension, members become a living example of our creed. They are extending the hand of fellowship to a new group of women in a new community. For years to come, the new chapter s contribution to their community will be great. You will be a part of that, since you were a part of their beginning. Steps to completing an extension: 1. Discuss it with your chapter and set up a committee of three to four people. 2. File an Intent to Extend form with the extensions director. 3. Review the Extension Manual for more specific information. 4. Hold informational meetings and establish local contacts within the community. 5. Recruit at least 10 members and your extension is complete! 6. Call the State President, Extensions Director and Chapter Service Center with your news. 7. Work with the extensions director and executive director to complete all the necessary paperwork. After the completion of an extension, the new chapter is supported for the first two years by the extending chapter or the extension team. The new members need to be trained in many areas including: officer responsibilities, running a project, membership recruitment, programming, and the history of Women of Today. It is exciting to see the new chapter learn and grow over the course of their first year. Their excitement is contagious. It spreads to all those who help the new chapter. The second year sees the extension team stepping back and watching the new chapter work alone. The new chapter has gained the knowledge and experience they need to hold their meetings and work on projects. The role of the extending chapter or team is to support the new chapter and help answer their questions. There are many benefits for a chapter working on an extension. The members who help are increasing their recruitment, training, and leadership skills. Energy builds in a chapter, which comes from helping a new group of women become a team and build new friendships. Any member can also join an extension team, which is made up of individual recruiters and trainers. Ideally, a group of three recruiters often from different chapters would begin the extension team. They work together in all aspects of the extension recruitment process including marketing and m-events. Once the chapter has been started, at least four individual trainers with differing backgrounds would be recruited to work with the new extension. The MNWT Foundation has grants and loans available to newly extended chapters and teams that completed new extensions. A grant of up to $150 is available to extending chapters or teams. A grant of up to $200 and a loan of up to $150 are available to newly extended chapters. The USWT offer $30 to newly extended chapters. All grants require proper forms to be file. If recruitment of the extension is going well, a chapter may take over the extension for the training aspect. This offers more continuity for the chapter, by having one constant source of information. Often chapters are afraid of the recruiting side of extensions. This allows a chapter to participate with a higher comfort level. To find out more about joining an extensions team, contact the Extensions Director to learn about possible extensions in your area. There are teams all over the state who are always looking for more people to bring in their individual talents and experiences. Page 38

42 State Programming Programming Emphasis Months June September Chapter Management Public Relations Personal Development/ STEP July Community Connections Extensions Friendship Ventures Public Relations Membership August Domestic Violence Awareness Project Recognition Health and Wellness Ways & Means Youth of Today Community Connections Women of Today Week USWT Foundation Membership Public Relations Personal Development Wishes and More October Buckets of Sunshine Domestic Violence Awareness Extensions Records and Recognition November Health & Wellness Parliamentarian Women s Wellness December Membership January Living and Learning. Personal Development Project Recognition February Extensions Domestic Violence Awareness NEWSLET March Health & Wellness Membership STEP April Domestic Violence Awareness Listening Course Volunteer Recognition May Website Parliamentaria n Community Connections Minnesota Women of Today emphasis United States Women of Today emphasis Internal Programming Living and Learning programming area promotes participation and provides information and project ideas in the areas of personal growth of members; intellectually, spiritually, civically, and through family. This area also promotes the Impromptu competitions as well as the Women Who Impact award. Invocations and benedictions at meetings will fall under this area. NEWSLET is the official newspaper of the Minnesota Women of Today. Every member is encouraged to submit an article to this newspaper by contacting the editor. Items included are: staff and program manager news, awards received at conventions, personal notes, chapter highlights, etc. Each member receives a copy of the publication delivered to her/his home. The NEWSLET editor will also offer tips and ideas on generating your own newsletters. Public Relations programming area is the how to in utilizing your community assets: the local paper, cable network, radio, TV and businesses. Learn ways to spread Women of Today news! Founder s Day is celebrated July 1 and Women of Today Week is celebrated in September. Promote MNWT as one of the top ten volunteer groups to be a part of in Minnesota. This is also a USWT programming area. Records and Recognition programming area is designed to help encourage good record keeping. Ideas for chapter histories come from this area, as do awards and incentive ideas. Presidents, state delegates and executive council members complete individual entries at the end of each year that are beneficial to the next officer in that position. The entries are judged and keys are awarded based on the accomplishments recorded in the entries. Records and Recognition also coordinates the chapter Success System submissions. Page 39

43 External Programming Community Connections programming area encourages involvement in the local community (e.g. food shelf, a civic project, senior citizens, adopt-a-family, etc.) This area promotes True Friends, Domestic Violence Awareness, the Outstanding Person with Developmental Challenges Award, the Community Connections Awards, and national programming areas that do not fall under any MNWT programming area. Wishes and More (Priority Area) programming area encourages members, chapters and districts to become educated about and do fundraising for Wishes and More. Wishes and More began in 2004 in order to fill the gaps of other wish-granting charities serving children with terminal and life-threatening conditions. The founders were seasoned children s wish granters who had served as volunteer members of the board of Make-A-Wish Foundation of Minnesota. Wishes & More grants wishes for infants and children with a life threatening or terminal illness to the age of 19. Wishes are often related to hunting, fishing, sports and other outdoor activities. Families can be supported with a Scholarship of Hope ($2000) or financial relief to families that lose their child before their wish could be experienced Women s Wellness programming area will focus on providing and supporting women s health education through traditional and holistic medical practices, as well as balanced lifestyles. The state program manager may promote up to two health areas and possibly one additional foundation of her choosing. The March of Dimes March for Babies will be promoted through this area. Youth of Today programming area promotes ideas and activities that allow youth to discover and experience the importance of volunteering. This area also promotes the Outstanding Young Adult Award, Kids Week and foundations related to youth activities. Page 40

44 Guidelines for Bidding for a State Program Manager Position It is very important to inform and involve your local chapter if you are interested in bidding for a state program manager (SPM) position. Let your chapter know what they can expect if your bid is accepted. Explain conventions and the SPM s role in them: your deadlines for reports and paperwork, a Chapter Information Packet (CIP), your responsibility to the state organization, and explain that you may be asked to travel to make presentations. Ask your chapter to vote to support you. Then ask your chapter president to write a letter expressing your chapter s support and why you would be a good candidate for the position. The letter should also include ways they support you, which could include assisting with CIPs and DPM letters, providing a travel companion, etc. Send this letter with your bid form, which is found in the Book of Forms. Contact the present program manager and the appropriate programming vice president to ask for any recommendations or answers to questions you may have. Find out how the state area fits in with national programming. Check on emphasis months - they can be found in the State Plan of Action, and generally do not change from year to year. Determine what your Plan of Action (POA) will be: Outline goals and priorities; Show a course of action to implement the Plan of Action; Indicate resources and materials you intend to use; and Include prospective forum titles and tentative dates for presentation (i.e., Fall State or Winter State). If a foundation or other organization is involved, contact them for possible ideas, help and materials. Know what their involvement will be. Send bid form, Plan of Action and letter from your chapter president, to the appropriate programming vice president and the state president at least four (4) weeks prior to the executive council meeting where the bid will be presented. The External Vice President (EVP) or Internal Vice President (IVP) will notify you as to any necessary changes or corrections you need to make. After the final approval of your POA, she will request that you prepare and make final copies (35) of your proposed Plan of Action and send them to her by 11:00 a.m. the Friday of Winter State convention or Annual Convention (depending on when you will bid). For more information pertaining to the responsibilities of a state program manager, refer to the external or internal programming definitions in the state Plan of Action, and contact the state program manager presently serving that area and the respective state programming vice president. Bid Procedures All programming areas are open to bid at Winter State. Any positions not filled at this convention may be bid at Annual convention. Program manager Plans of Action for the membership will be posted on the website. Bids are presented at the Winter State executive council meeting (or thereafter) at a specific time, usually on Friday afternoon of that convention. Only executive council members may be present during the presentation of the bids. Five (5) minutes are allowed for presentation of the bid. Questions and answers may follow. Following the bid presentation of each individual programming area, the executive council will discuss the merits of each individual Plan of Action. A vote is taken by secret ballot. Page 41

45 When the bid is selected, the new program manager will be notified immediately. It is the right of the executive council to table a bid until the next state meeting. Where to get Information Contact the external/internal vice president and state president if you will be bidding and utilize them for clarification or to answer any questions concerning the bidding or presenting of your bid. The external/internal vice president needs to be aware of who will be presenting your bid at MNJOTS (if it is necessary). Suggested Bidding Material Write your bid like a Plan of Action; be complete and specific. Do not expect people to read your thoughts or feelings. Explain exactly what you want the Women of Today to do for your specific area, whether it is fundraising, education, etc. Be sure to include other sources of income that are available for the project you are proposing. If there is a foundation that is working with the area you are proposing, be sure to contact them, ask for assistance and find out clearly what aid they are willing to give. Use your time wisely when presenting the bid. Get to the point and be clear. Use booth space that will be provided at Fall State to distribute your fliers, brochures, etc. Be positive about your area. KNOW ALL THE FACTS! State Priority Project Bid Guidelines _ Two (2) mailings may be sent out to member chapters and the Executive Council between April 15 and September 1. Bidding foundations can purchase mailing labels from the Chapter Service Center for a set fee. Mailing content must be sent to the External Vice President and the State President for approval prior to the mass mailing. These mailings are not required, but are at the discretion of the bidding organizations. There is no charge for bidders to distribute information through the CIP at MNJOTS. Display tables will be provided at the Annual Meeting. Hospitality rooms will not be allowed. Visitations and personal distribution of brochures may be done at the discretion of those promoting state programming areas. No promotion of programs will be allowed at the Fall State Meeting. All expenses incurred in the promotion of an area will be paid for by the bidding foundation. The priority project is a three (3) year commitment and individuals, foundations, chapters or districts may not re-bid at the end of the three (3) years. Page 42

46 Three-Year Programming Review Process Each year, the programming vice presidents distribute and collect evaluations of the areas for the current year. A programming review committee consisting of the general membership is established for each area. The recommended changes are presented to the executive council at the mid-year executive council meeting. If any changes are to occur, these changes are presented to the general membership at the next state membership meeting. The implementation process takes place the year after evaluation, and then the programming area is allowed a third year extension. 2018/ / /2021 Phase 1 Implementation Public Relations NEWSLET Records & Recognitions Including the Success System Women s Wellness Community Connections Youth of Today Living & Learning Phase 2 Extension Community Connections Youth of Today Living & Learning Public Relations NEWSLET Records & Recognitions Including the Success System Women s Wellness Phase 3 Evaluation Records & Recognitions Including the Success System Women s Wellness Community Connections Priority Area Living & Learning Public Relations NEWSLET Every area is evaluated in three-year intervals. Input from the general membership is important in this process in order to fully understand the effects of each programming area on individual members and their chapters. Page 43

47 Manual Review Schedule Manuals are reviewed on a four-year cycle according to this schedule. Personal Enrichment Courses are reviewed under the direction of the Manual Review Chair and committee members. Local Officer and Other Manuals are reviewed under the direction of the Manual Review Chair utilizing reviewers that have held positions in the areas associated with the manuals. Programming (SPM) Manuals are reviewed under the direction of the state internal and external vice presidents in conjunction with the programming review process. Staff and District Director Operations Manuals are reviewed under the direction of the Chairman of the Board. Page 44

48 Glossary of Terms Active Member A Women of Today member who regularly attends meetings and works on projects. Add & Change Form A form to be completed by the first of the month following the adding of a new member; individual member information may also be changed using this form. Administrative Vice President (AVP) Appointed position; supervises District Directors and State Delegates; serves on the Future Directions Committee. All American Chapter A USWT program designated to provide recognition for those WT chapters that have planned and accomplished a well-rounded program of projects and activities. Ambassador Award USWT honor presented to an outstanding member; the highest recognition that can be bestowed on a member. Annual Convention MNWT Convention held in May for the purpose of electing the State President and State Treasurer, and for year-end awards recognition. Area Meeting Held once each year in the spring, the purpose of which is to meet the candidates for State President and State Treasurer, offer training and to meet with the current State President. Articles of Incorporation Articles of law governing the national, state, district and local organization. Bid An offer to host an event or meeting; an offer to become a program manager on the state or national level, or a state-sponsored programming area. Board of Directors Consists of President, Vice President(s), Secretary, Treasurer, State Delegate, immediate Past President, and any elected directors. Bylaws Articles of law governing the entire operations of the organization. Chair The individual charged with the responsibility of the completion of a project; heads a committee and provides motivation for its members. Chairman of the Board Immediate Past State President; Elections Committee chair; serves as Historian for MNWT; acts as liaison between USWT and MNWT; ONTO Committee chair for National Convention. Chapter A local organization of the Women of Today. Chapter Attendance Award Recognition given to the chapter having the highest percentage of members present at a meeting. Chapter Grants Program Designed to give a chapter the funds needed to do a special project they would be unable to run without financial aid; applicants must donate $35 to the Foundation to be eligible to apply for a grant, which is presented at Winter State. Chapter Information Packet (CIP) Information on all state programming areas and other items of interest; given to chapters at each state meeting. Full CIPs will be distributed at MNJOTS, Fall State and Winter State. All CIPs will be available on the MNWT website. Chapter Mailing Mailing by the State Secretary to the local chapter presidents and executive council members; contains minutes of the state Business Meetings, executive council Meetings, highlights of state activities, reminders, deadlines, forms, etc. Page 45

49 Chapter Management Effective, efficient and proper use of resources to accomplish a predetermined objective. Chapter Management Vice President (CMVP) MNWT appointed position that works with the TLC Chapters, supervises the Gold Team, promotes the use of chapter management tools, and coordinates LOTS. Chapter Mile Award Recognition given to the chapter traveling the furthest distance to attend a meeting. Chapter Service Center (CSC) Headquarters of the Minnesota Women of Today; staffed by an Executive Director who is a resource person for chapters and individual members. Charter Certificate given to a new chapter when it officially becomes a member of MNWT. Cheryl L Anderson Memorial Scholarship Given Fall State, this $500 scholarship is awarded to a deserving member of the organization of at least two years who is seeking higher education and is in need of financial assistance. Communication Log A log that records the outgoing and incoming written and verbal communication. Community Connections (CC) Program to encourage chapter involvement in their local community (e.g., food shelf, a civic project, senior citizens, adopt-a-family). Promotes Friendship Ventures, the Outstanding Person with Developmental Challenges Award and national programming areas that do not fall under any MN programming area. Community Connections Awards Awards given to chapters under the Community Connections Programming Area. Joint Ventures for work with another organization, Community Impact for work within your community and Civic or environment project for other projects. These awards are given at Annual Convention. Conventions State meetings held three times each year: Fall State in September, Winter State in January, and Annual Convention in May. Community Involvement Women of Today activities aimed at the improvement of the community. District A group of chapters under the supervision of a District Director. District Director (DD) A state officer that works directly with the local chapter presidents, presides at all district meetings and serves on executive council as a voting representative. Domestic Violence Awareness This is the only external programming area officially promoted by the USWT. Effective Speaking A Personal Enrichment Program to offer all Women of Today an opportunity to develop their speaking abilities; competition is held at state meetings. Effective Writing A Personal Enrichment Program to offer all Women of Today an opportunity to develop their writing abilities; competition is held at state meetings. Elections Committee A committee that sets the basic rules for the campaign and elections process. Executive Council State-governing body consisting of state staff officers, state program managers and district directors. Executive Director Permanent position; serves as resource for chapters through the CSC. Page 46

50 Expense Voucher A form completed and given to the treasurer for reimbursement of expenses per the approval of the president or project chair. Extension The establishment of a new Women of Today chapter. Extension Fund Established to provide needed financial assistance to new chapters; consists of a matching fund grant program available to a chapter within its first 120 days of existence and a no-interest loan available to a chapter within its first two (2) years; awarded as needed in the amount of up to $100 with the recommendation of the Extensions Director and subject to approval of the Foundation s Board of Directors. Extensions Director Appointed position; assists chapters with extensions process and follows through with newly extended chapters; promotes chapter extensions. External Programming Projects or events run for the benefit of the local community or state-endorsed foundation; MNWT areas include: Community Connections, Isaac s Journey, Women s Wellness and Youth of Today. External Vice President (EVP) Administrator of external programming who supervises the external program managers; the MNWT appointed position that serves on the Future Directions Committee, is the liaison between MNWT and foundations we serve, and serves on the MNWT Foundation Board. Fall State MNWT meeting held in September for the purpose of orientations, project fair and awards. Finance Committee A standing committee that oversees the budget and financial operations of the organization; sets the annual budget for the organization and is chaired by the treasurer; state committee members include the State Treasurer, Ways & Means SPM, immediate past State Treasurer and five to seven additional members. Financial Vice President First Timer Member attending their first meeting or convention. Forum Group meetings held on various informative subjects at meetings. Foundation, Minnesota Women of Today Incorporated 501C3 entity that provides a means for individuals and businesses to donate to the Women of Today and receive a tax benefit; committee that provides financial assistance to the MNWT to supplement our programs. Founder s Day Celebration of the anniversary of the founding of the USWT on July 1, Friendship Day Promoted by the Membership VP to recognize the importance of fellowship within the chapter; celebrated on the first Sunday in August. Future Directions Committee A state-standing committee that studies where the future of our organization should go; evaluates how we operate, our programming areas and what we offer to better improve our organization; subcommittees include: Marketing Committee, Membership Management Committee, Manual Review Committee and Finance Committee. Growth Plan A schedule of planned membership growth; details membership activity for the year. Health & Wellness A USWT programming area designed to help each member be aware of their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Page 47

51 Honorary/Lifetime Member Membership conferred upon an individual whose contributions to the organization have been so outstanding as to merit this honor. In-Chapter Extension Acquired by signing four (4) new members into a chapter in a period of one calendar month. Institutional Chapter A Women of Today chapter that exists within a confining rehabilitative center or a job training facility. Internal Programming Areas, which are primarily for the benefit and service of our members: MNWT areas include: Living & Learning, NEWSLET, Public Relations, Records and Recognition, and Ways & Means. Internal Vice President (IVP) Administrator of internal programming who supervises the internal program managers; the State IVP is an appointed position and serves on the Future Directions Committee. Key (Gold, Silver and Bronze) Individual awards shall be given to outstanding State Staff, State Program Managers, District Directors, Local Presidents, new Local Presidents, State Delegates and new State Delegates as judged by the Year-End Entries. Key Woman MNWT recognition of an outstanding member. Living & Learning (LL) Programming Area that promotes participation and provides information and project ideas in the areas of personal growth of members; intellectually, spiritually, civically, and through family. Also promotes the Effective Writing, Speaking and Impromptu competitions and oversees invocations and benedictions at meetings. Local Officer Training Sessions (LOTS) Seminar for the orientation of chapter officers held in the Spring. Lois M. Christensen Women Who Impact Award Designed to honor women in three categories: Non-Profit, Youth Outreach and Women s Advocacy. Honorees are judged on community activities, leadership and overall contributions in their Lois M Christensen Women Who Impact Award category. At least three (3) entries must be received in one category to hold a competition. Manual Review Committee Subcommittee of the Future Directions Committee established to oversee the development and review of all manuals produced by the MNWT; anyone wishing to publish a manual must have it reviewed and approved by this committee, which oversees the three-year manual review cycle. March Planning State-sponsored meeting for the review of the next MNWT year s activities. Marketing Committee Committee established to promote MNWT externally; activities include informational booths at expos, developing media kits and new brochures, and providing promotional materials at statesponsored events; comprised of representatives from across the state and several executive council members including the PR SPM. Meeting A session conducted by the officers of the organization within the bylaws of the organization; local meetings are usually held monthly, while district and state meetings are held three times yearly, and national meetings are held bi-annually. Member in Good Standing An individual at least 18 years old whose dues are paid. Membership Management Committee Established in January 1984, this subcommittee works with the state president and her team to generate interest and excitement in meeting membership goals; additional objectives are to find Page 48

52 ways to increase chapter size, improve retention, assist with extensions, and to internally market our organization. Membership Vice President (MVP) Administers the Growth Plan; the State MVP is an appointed position and serves on the Membership Management Committee. Minnesota June Officer Training Sessions (MNJOTS) Meeting of the executive council in early June for purposes of orientation, training and motivation. Mid-Year Meeting (USWT) A meeting of the USWT Board of Directors held in fall from Friday to Sunday. National Convention Annual USWT year-end meeting held the second full weekend in June from Thursday to Sunday. NEWSLET The official publication of the Minnesota Women of Today; issued four times each year. Newsletter A publication of the chapter or district used to keep its members informed of Women of Today news and meetings. ONTO Committee MNWT committee, which promotes attendance at the national meetings. Orientation The ongoing function of educating members about the Women of Today organization, its benefits and opportunities offered to the individual member. Outstanding Awards Committee. Committee to work with Living & Learning, Community Connections and Youth of Today State Program Managers in regards to individual recognition awards in their area. This ongoing committee will oversee the Outstanding Young Adult, Outstanding Person with Developmental Challenges and the Women Who Impact Awards Shall oversee judging process, script write-ups, PowerPoint presentations and assist the Executive Director where needed. Outstanding Young Adult Award (OYA) Young adults (grades 9-12) honored at Winter State for their volunteer contributions to the communities. Outstanding Young Adult Scholarship Provides scholarships for the OYA recipients. Parliamentarian Advisor to a chair or presiding officer regarding parliamentary procedures; oversees parliamentary procedures at meetings of the corporation; responsible for review of bylaws and policies (Bylaw Review chair); on the state level this is an appointed position; on the local level it is usually the past president. Outstanding Person with Developmental Challenges Award Designed to honor an individual who has overcome his/her disability, shown personal growth and has made an impact on their community and family; in order to hold a competition there shall be no less than three (3) entries received by the publicized deadline date. Personal Development A USWT programming area designed to help each individual advance in personal growth, careers, and citizenship. Personal Enrichment Program (PEP) Self-development program aimed at teaching, developing and increasing the individual member s personal and leadership skills. Presidential Assistant Appointed position who assists State President in any activities (s)he deems necessary; compiles Page 49

53 the executive council Directory. Presidential Medallion Awarded to members of the executive council, local presidents and state delegates who are recognized for outstanding contributions and leadership. Presidential Pin Awarded to only 100 recipients on the state and national level who are recognized for outstanding contributions and leadership in the Women of Today. Plan of Action Plans made by the president and Board of Directors for the coming year. Policies Defines specific additional areas, not in the bylaws, under which the organization operates. President Presides at meetings of and supervises activities undertaken by this organization; elected in May on the state level and usually in April on the local level. Priority Area MNWT programming area, which is emphasized for three years as part of the external programming. Program Manager An individual who oversees one of the internal or external programming areas on the local (LPM), district (DPM), state (SPM) or national level. Project An event or activity organized by a chair for purposes of education or fundraising; can be done on the local, district, state or national level. Project Fair MNWT internal and external programming area exhibits, displayed at Fall State, to assist chapters in learning about programming and to get ideas on projects or activities for the year. Project of the Trimester Project submitted by the local chapter on the district or state level at each trimester s meeting for awards purposes. Project Recognition Form filled out for competition at the national level; includes description of the project and how it was developed and conducted. Prospective A community member interested in the Women of Today who attends a meeting or event. Public Relations (PR) An internal programming area promoting the organization; not to be confused with publicity that is just one of the methods used in communicating image. Quorum Number of members necessary to conduct business at a meeting; usually a simple majority, but bylaws may specify otherwise. Records and Recognition (R&R) MNWT internal programming area promoting record keeping of events, projects and activities; coordinates submission of Project of the Trimester and coordinates chapter s Success System submission. Retention Renewing of an individual s membership for another year. Robert s Rules of Order A guide book of parliamentary procedure written by General Henry A Robert (US Army) in 1884; provides for the protection of the rights of the minority, individuals and those absent in the conduct of the meetings. Page 50

54 Sapphire Club Help the Minnesota Women of Today Foundation establish funding for the Membership Rebate program. Contributors can use three years to complete their pledge at either the $100 pledges/donations or $500 pledge/donations. Please help by making a pledge or donation to the Foundation s Sapphire Club. Secretary Records and distributes minutes of all meetings; coordinates PALS program; on the state level this appointed position compiles Chapter Mailings, state Plan of Action, and the Book of Forms. SODA Schedule of dues admissions that are given to each state at the first of the year. Sponsorships Financial, material or physical support of Women of Today programs by an outside individual, group or firm. State Staff Consists of the State President, Administrative VP, Membership VP, Chapter Management VP, Internal VP, External VP, State Treasurer, State Secretary, Extensions Director, State Parliamentarian, Chairman of the Board, Executive Director and Presidential Assistant. Strategic Planning Committee Established in 1988 this subcommittee of the Future Directions Committee is tasked with developing a long-range vision for the MNWT; focus groups throughout the state will seek input from all members; this committee will develop a strategic plan for approval by membership. Straight River Scholarship A scholarship up to $400 is given to assist a person to enter or continue in an educational program where his/her goal is to improve or enhance the skills of the physically or mentally disabled individuals. Success System A chapter management tool for chapters to use in planning activities and programs; provides a checklist of what a chapter offers to its members; competition among the chapters in the state where points are earned and a ranking established. Success Through Enthusiastic Participation (STEP) A USWT management tool and programming area that aids in activating members in chapter, district and state activities; STEP I is available for new members within their first 120 days; STEP II is available for new members within their first year; STEP III is available for members from their first year through their fifth year; STEP IV is available for those members of six years or more. Sunshine Sending cards, gifts, etc., for good cheer, babies, illnesses, etc. Sustaining Members Program that allows for individuals to be recognized as annual contributors to the Foundation with a yearly tax-deductible donation of $25. Today s Leader The official newsletter of the USWT; published bi-monthly and distributed to the USWT board of directors, all local chapters, USWT Foundation president, and USWT ambassador president. Trimester Dues Billing Forms sent each trimester by the Chapter Service Center that indicate the number of members who are due. The dues billing is received from the United States Women of Today. US Staff Ways & Means (W&M) State Store Manager Includes the executive committee, directors, program managers, presidential assistants and chaplain. Promotes fundraising for general fund and expenses on the district and local level for events and projects. On the State level includes the state store. Page 51

55 Webmaster An individual with the background and knowledge of sustaining a website for the Minnesota Women of Today. Approved by the Executive Council and reviewed yearly, reporting to the Executive Director. Winter State MNWT meeting held in January for the purposes of honoring Outstanding Young Adults, People with Developmental Challenges and Women Who Impact. Women of Today Week Observed the last full week in September. Women s Wellness (WW) MNWT external programming area promoting women s health education; promotes March of Dimes March for Babies; may promote up to two (2) health areas and possibly one additional foundation. Youth of Today (YT) MNWT external programming area promoting ideas and activities that allow youth to discover and experience the importance of volunteering. Also promotes the Outstanding Young Adult program, Kids Week and foundations related to youth activities. Page 52

56 State Committees Bylaw Review Committee This committee is responsible for annually reviewing state bylaws and policies. The state parliamentarian chairs this committee and other members include: State President, Chairman of the Board, Executive Director, and immediate past Parliamentarian. Other members are welcome to attend the committee meeting, which is held once each year. Finance Committee This committee is responsible for providing financial direction, designation of funds, and preparing the annual budget. The State Treasurer, State Store Manager, immediate past State Treasurer, Chairman of the Board and five to ten additional members shall serve on this committee. Ex-officio members shall be the State President, Executive Director and Internal Programming Vice President. This committee meets four (4) times each year. Future Directions Committee This ongoing committee is responsible for reviewing member suggestions concerning organizational structure, administration or programming, especially long range planning in those areas which have been approved by the membership. This committee is organized annually and meets at least three times during the year. The Future Directions Committee chairperson is appointed by the State President and serves a one-year term. Additional committee members are the State President, External Vice President, Administrative Vice President, Chairman of the Board, Executive Director, State Parliamentarian, State Treasurer, Marketing Chair, Membership Management Chair, reporting subcommittee chairs, past Future Directions chair, one (1) general member from each area and up to four (4) additional members from any area. General members shall serve rotating two-year terms. Major subcommittees of Future Directions include: Manual Review Committee The purpose of this subcommittee is to oversee the development and review of all manuals produced by the Minnesota Women of Today. Anyone wishing to publish a manual must have it reviewed and approved by the Manual Review Committee. The committee oversees the four-year manual review cycle. Strategic Planning Committee Established in 1998, this subcommittee is tasked with developing a long-range vision for the MNWT. Focus groups will help throughout the state, seeking input from all members. This committee developed the strategic plan approved by the membership. Membership Management Committee Established in January 1984, this committee works with the state president and her team to generate interest and excitement in meeting membership goals. Additional objectives are to find ways to increase chapter size, improve retention, assist with the addition of new chapters (extensions), and internally market our organization. This committee is also in charge of the First Timers Program at each state convention. Leadership Committee The purpose of this subcommittee is to bring awareness about committees to members; what are the committees, what they do, etc. This subcommittee was also established to find people in the organization who can become our future leaders. It will also implement a coaching system to help develop our future leaders. Page 53

57 Marketing Committee This committee externally promotes the Minnesota Women of Today. Activities include informational booths at expos, developing media kits and new brochures, and providing promotional materials at state-sponsored events. This committee is comprised of representatives from across the state and several executive council members, including the Public Relations State Program Manager, NEWSLET Editor, Webmaster and Internal Vice President. Major subcommittees of Marketing include: Branding Committee The objective of this committee is to create a MNWT Brand that provides wider public recognition of our organization. Expo Committee Established in 2002, this committee is in charge of reading materials and booths for the MNWT at women s expos across the state. Buckets of Sunshine (Statewide Project Committee) This committee is charged with locating an annual fundraising event for a needy organization that will benefit from our organization s efforts. In the past, we have donated monetary and gift items to organizations such as: Shriners Hospitals for Children, Project Linus, Operation Minnesota Nice, Emerge Mothers Academy, Ruff Start Rescue and Kody s Closet. Statewide Committees Future Directions Chair: fdc@mnwt.org o Awards Subcommittee Chair: fdc-awards@mnwt.org o Chapter Structure Subcommittee Chair: fdc-chapterstructure@mnwt.org o International Chapters Subcommittee Chair: fdc-international@mnwt.org o Go Green Subcommittee Chair: fdc-gogreen@mnwt.org o Manual Review Subcommittee Chair: fdc-manualreview@mnwt.org o Online Training Subcommittee Chair: fdc-online@mnwt.org o Restructuring Subcommittee Chair: fdc-restructuring@mnwt.org o Strategic Plan Subcommittee Chair: fdc-strategicplan@mnwt.org o Train the Trainer Subcommittee Chair: fdc-train@mnwt.org Marketing Chair: marketing@mnwt.org o Expos Subcommittee Chair: mktg-expo@mnwt.org o Internet Connection Subcommittee Chair: mktg-internet@mnwt.org o Promotions Subcommittee Chair: mktg-promotions@mnwt.org o Social Media Subcommittee Chair: mktg-socialmedia@mnwt.org o Statewide Projects Subcommittee Chair: mktg-stateproject@mnwt.org o Website Subcommittee Chair: webmaster@mnwt.org MMC Chair: mmc@mnwt.org Leadership Subcommittee Chair: mmc-leadership@mnwt.org Key Women Chair: keywomen@mnwt.org Bylaw Review Committee Chair: parli@mnwt.org Finance Committee Chair: fvp@mnwt.org Page 54

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