Archive for October, 2009
One thing I am not a super huge fan of on Facebook, almost as much as typos, is you telling me about the weather. “It’s nice out” doesn’t really merit my attention. I could see it if you were in the middle of a crazy hurricane, but then again, get off Facebook and go stand […]
Fact of the matter is, y’all are about due for another major announcement. I’m prolonging it.
But MK and I are moving again. Which means if you’re a lucky chosen one, you get crap. I know, it’s terrible. But on principal, we can’t just throw away food. And one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, right? […]
Spirit-led Leadership: Insights from David
Closed Published by Jonathan Dodson October 21st, 2009 on Creation ProjectResurgence is running a series on Spirit-led Leadership that compares the role of the Spirit in David vs. Saul. A close examination of thier differences reveals some very helpful gospel and pastoral insights. Check it out here.
Yesterday’s post was a picture instead of a heart warming tale becuase I was pouting. After talking with MK (and CH!) about possibly scalping tickets to MNF – he got one for free. So I let him go, Mr. Doesn’t Even Watch Football, and I stayed home and sulked.
There was no food in the house, […]
We went over to our friends for their Housewarming/Engagement party. And got totally spoiled with JM’s paella:
Extreme Makeover at Austin Safeplace
Closed Published by Jonathan Dodson October 19th, 2009 on Creation ProjectThis Saturday October 24th AUSTIN CITY LIFE will be serving Austin-based non-profit SAFE PLACE, an organization that is working to end sexual and domestic violence right here in Central Texas. We will be doing a one day Extreme Makeover of one of their teen therapy rooms.
We are still in need of money to complete this […]
Demonstrate Your Experience & Gain New Skills
Closed Published by Business Networking in Austin Blog October 18th, 2009 on Business Networking in Austin Blog
There are so many reasons to do volunteer work, and to serve on not-for-profit boards. One of those reasons is the knowledge and experience you gain from doing the work, as well as the knowledge and experience that you share.
There are really two schools of thought when it comes to board service. Some say you should only serve in roles that are outside of your regular line of work so that you gain new skills and experience. For example, if you’re a CPA don’t serve as the treasurer. The other school of thought says that you should leverage your strengths, and simply do what you’re best at where you’ll have the greatest impact. Depending on your needs and the needs of the organizations you’re working with I think you can decide what makes the most sense on a case by case basis.
Regardless of your current professional status, almost any type of board service will give you the ability to demonstrate your current skills and talents. In discussions you’ll able to refer to your previous experience to help guide your organization to better decisions. As you work closely with your fellow board members you’ll develop bonds that will last a long time. If you really apply yourself you’ll likely find that these board relationships become the core of your own network. This often happens because you share a passion, and you’ve had the opportunity to show that you’re a credible professional.
Whether you choose to step outside your comfort zone into a new role or leverage your strengths, the new situations and challenges your organization presents will give you an opportunity think differently and try new things. The skills you’ll develop in these roles and the experience you gain can be invaluable to your career growth. Not to mention all of this work looks pretty good on a resume as well.
If you’re not already working on a board I hope you’ll seriously consider it. Talk to others who’ve done this kind of work and I’m pretty sure they’ll tell you that you almost always get more than you give.
Happy Networking!
Scott Ingram
Fall 2009 Greenlights Board Summit
Closed Published by Business Networking in Austin Blog October 18th, 2009 on Business Networking in Austin Blog
It’s time again for the Board Summit! Twice a year Greenlights for Non-Profits in partnership with Leadership Austin hosts their Board Summit. This is a "board fair" where you’ll have an opportunity to visit with 24 pre-screened not-for-profit organizations who are actively looking for new board members.
I’m a huge believer in non-profit board service. There are so many reasons to do this great work, and there are just as many organizations who could use your talents, expertise and help.
The Fall 2009 event is at the LBJ Library & Museum (2313 Red River St. at the University of Texas). The reception begins at 5:45pm and includes plenty of good munchies, beer and wine. Registration is just $35.
Don’t forget that in addition to networking with local non-profits you’ll also have an opportunity to connect with 150 other business professionals and community leaders. This event is not to be missed! Register today… because I said so!! 
Happy Networking!
Scott Ingram
I am enjoying Harvey Cox’s newest book, The Future of Faith, and have agreed to participate in a blog book tour. Cox has made insightful observations about religion for decades. Stephen Prothero has pointed to Cox as “the leading trend spotter in American religion.”
Although Cox makes no claim to evangelical faith, his insights are […]