Council Matters

The Senior Council was called to order on Monday Nov. 3 by President Pat Cook with 24 members and 2 staff present. Pat reported on the October Board of Directors meeting held on October 27. Some of the items discussed were the projected budget shortfall due to the current economic crisis and the drop in personal and corporate giving and grants; it was noted that the Travel program is also down. This drop in support resulted in the laying off of a part time staff person. The Executive Director said that we are looking at many ways to keep expenses to a minimum while keeping all programs running as they are now. This was followed by some discussion as to how the Council could help to raise funds to help to reduce the deficit; a motion was passed by Council to create an Ad Hoc committee to explore the feasibility of various fundraisers and bring them back to the Council.

Heidi Shaner then reported on several matters: the Yard Sale was very successful, raising over $10,000; Sarah will return to work on Nov.17, over 900 membership cards have been issued and program leaders are asked to have their members get a card if they don't have one, and there will be more "in the know" sessions in November. Heidi also asked help in retaining new members; statistics show many do not renew after the first year and program leaders can help by getting them involved in their programs. The Diversity committee reported that the Jewish Musical Program was set for Nov. 9 and the Second Annual Heritage Pot Luck will be held on Dec.14.

A selection of the program reports include: Scrabble now meets twice a week, the Computer Club meets on the second Monday of the month, Laughter Yoga is considering a change of meeting day, and the Canasta group issued an invitation to come and learn how to play this fun game.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:55 p.m. The next meeting will be Monday December 1st at 1:00 p.m. in the Board Room.

Council meetings occur on the first Monday of each month at 1:00 p.m. in the Board Room.