Member-At-Large

Dear Mothers of the Mighty Mid-Western Region,

I am truly honored to serve as your 2007-2009 Regional Member-At-Large. The past months have been busy but very rewarding. I've had the opportunity to attend the National Officers' Retreat at the Doral Golf Resort and Spa in Miami, the site of the national convention. In August, I attended MAL Training in Washington, D.C. and visited Foundation Headquarters in preparation to better serve your needs. Grant Writing Workshops were conducted at both the Michigan/Ohio and Illinois area Fall Mother's Workday Clusters in October. Your feedback on the workshop evaluations indicated that the sessions were comprehensive and informative.

Thank you to the Chapter Foundation Chairs for submission of grant proposals by December 1. I am so proud of the Mighty Mid-Western Region for your focus, your drive and attention to detail in your proposals. You truly are creating positive change in your communities and making an impact on shaping tomorrow's leaders. The next steps in the funding process will be grant review, funding determinations and finally, the announcement of awards in May of 2008.

Let's continue to generate excitement as our children collect loose change. Did you know that through your efforts, Foundation has contributed more than $20,000 to purchase books and restore the New Orleans public libraries? The Loose Change Program allows us to teach our children about financial literacy, philanthropy and reasons to reinvest in our Foundation. Participants will be recognized as "Ambassadors of Philanthropy" at the upcoming Children's Clusters. There will be additional recognition, prizes and fun… fun… fun! So, keep the momentum going.

As you direct your efforts to fundraising, please remember to reference the appropriate guides and forms. I applaud the innovative ideas and stellar planning being carried out by your Fundraising Committees. As you select those local organizations that will benefit from your efforts, please ensure that they too reflect the values and aims of our Organization. I am excited about your upcoming events. Activities being planned range from "Evenings at the Theatre " and Beautillions, to Silent Auctions, and the list goes on. Please keep me posted so I can share your successes and best practices.

Lastly, I wish good health, peace and happiness for you and your families. As you navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday, pause to remember the reason for the season. I look forward to continued Mentoring, Advocacy and service as your Liaison in the upcoming year.

Yours in Service,

Debra L. Hairston