Post by Jenne on Apr 10, 2012 18:59:37 GMT -5
So, folks who know me from EB&G et al know what I've been facing vis a vis PTA--I'm a somewhat "higher up" in this eschelon of longstanding commitment to organized volunteerism. And a group of harpies are gunning for my position.
Now, when I took up this mantle of "President of Council" I was sort of warned that any "cleaning house" I would do would result in a revolt. And boy howdy did I get some.
Here's the latest smear campaign email, blind copied to my whole council and all 36 unit presidents who serve under me. Read and laugh hysterically as I did (I am Jennifer, btw):
"Dear PC counterparts,
Just wanted to put the word out that there will be a floor nomination for President tonight for Shirley W. I plan to give Shirley my vote because I believe that she brings a great amount of experience and is keenly aware of the need for an atmosphere of support and kindness at the Council Level. We need to remain focused on what's good for kids and how to support volunteers who are working toward those goals.
In my personal opinion, the current leadership often has condescending overtones and has lacked in personal support of the Units and any effort to educate and mediate. I have felt a lack of support when I pose questions (which we are asked to do in our monthly report) and have yet to receive a response to any of my inquiries. I have felt unable to make inquiries in meetings, knowing that the result will be a demeaning lecture from the President.
I have nothing personal against Jennifer, who clearly gives her time even with a very full plate including a job and baby on the way, but I do not feel that her divisive leadership style has strengthened or empowered our Council or Units. Instead, from my own personal understandings, it appears to have divided us and driven away many excellent volunteers and leaders who have been told either indirectly or quite directly that there efforts are sub-par.
Shirley is still someone who speaks her mind and has strong opinions, but I believe she is motivated to educate and support those of us at the Unit level and to work as the leader of team at the Council level, incorporating the talents of many for the good of our kids.
I ask that you each make up your own minds, based on your own experiences, but I wanted to give you all a head's up to have some time to consider it before the vote tonight.
Thanks,
~Rachel"
Now, when I took up this mantle of "President of Council" I was sort of warned that any "cleaning house" I would do would result in a revolt. And boy howdy did I get some.
Here's the latest smear campaign email, blind copied to my whole council and all 36 unit presidents who serve under me. Read and laugh hysterically as I did (I am Jennifer, btw):
"Dear PC counterparts,
Just wanted to put the word out that there will be a floor nomination for President tonight for Shirley W. I plan to give Shirley my vote because I believe that she brings a great amount of experience and is keenly aware of the need for an atmosphere of support and kindness at the Council Level. We need to remain focused on what's good for kids and how to support volunteers who are working toward those goals.
In my personal opinion, the current leadership often has condescending overtones and has lacked in personal support of the Units and any effort to educate and mediate. I have felt a lack of support when I pose questions (which we are asked to do in our monthly report) and have yet to receive a response to any of my inquiries. I have felt unable to make inquiries in meetings, knowing that the result will be a demeaning lecture from the President.
I have nothing personal against Jennifer, who clearly gives her time even with a very full plate including a job and baby on the way, but I do not feel that her divisive leadership style has strengthened or empowered our Council or Units. Instead, from my own personal understandings, it appears to have divided us and driven away many excellent volunteers and leaders who have been told either indirectly or quite directly that there efforts are sub-par.
Shirley is still someone who speaks her mind and has strong opinions, but I believe she is motivated to educate and support those of us at the Unit level and to work as the leader of team at the Council level, incorporating the talents of many for the good of our kids.
I ask that you each make up your own minds, based on your own experiences, but I wanted to give you all a head's up to have some time to consider it before the vote tonight.
Thanks,
~Rachel"