Letter From the CEO: June 2016

Did you know the Y is owned and operated by our volunteers?

The YMCA Board of Directors sets policy, and I operationalize that policy. Your next question is probably, "How does the board make decisions?" They do that in basically two ways: the first is their personal experience and the second is through the committees.

If you ever witness a board meeting, you will find there is some discussion, questions and concerns about topics, but usually most agenda items are simply approved and we move on to a new topic. On its face, it seems like the board rubber stamps whatever staff wants.

However, that is far from true.

The true power of the Y Board of Directors rests in the hands of the committees. Our numerous committees each have at least two board members serving on them. The rest of the committees are made up of volunteers who care deeply about that speciality area of the YMCA — everything from fundraising to camping to appreciation for our supporters. The committees come up with operational plans, work directly with staff and then generate ideas to improve our programs. They help ensure we are making decisions that reflect the wants and needs of our community.

The committees are operational in nature. So if there is a committee with six board members serving on it and they come up with an idea for the Y, it then goes to the Executive Committee for a vote. The Executive Committee is made up of the chairs of each committee, the four officers of the board and the most recent past chairman. The chair can also appoint up to three additional members to the Executive Committee.

What this means is that by the time the board hears about an idea and votes for it, almost half of the board has already discussed it and vetted it. That's why items usually just get passed without a whole lot of discussion.

So what's the point of me telling you all this?

Have you ever wanted to make a difference in the community and at the Y? Our YMCA does so much in the community, and it can do more. However, it can't do more without you volunteering. Here is what I want you to consider: Just contact the staff member in charge of each committee (see them all below) and learn whether the committee is the right fit for you and you are the right fit for the committee. If it is something you are passionate about, let us know and we will work to find a place for you.

Here is a listing of the committees and what each one does as well as who you can contact:

Thank You,   
Chris Coker   
CEO/President of YMCA of Boulder Valley