Comments From The President
We have often asked in our Willard News if you have any
ideas, comments and/or suggestions. We have also asked if you are interested
in serving on the Board. These comments from your President today confirm
that the Willard Family Association of America, Inc. is strong and doing
well - especially if you believe communications are important. During the
past year we have heard from many members and also from other organizations
wanting photos or history of the Willard Family. There are members who
do want to serve on the Board. Unfortunately they have had to decline when
nominated. Their reasons are valid: time, distance, and other commitments
would prohibit them from being at directors' meetings and from being able
to contribute enough time to the responsibilities they would have as a
Board member. Perhaps instead these persons and others who have even a
little time can accept one project the Board may need help with. Please
let us know.
Others have asked about our finances. Good question. One
member, realizing how expensive everything is today has offered to help
pay for the "Willard Crest Decals." If we can get them printed and put
on sale, perhaps we can make a few dollars profit.
A success story this year was being able to coordinate
Treasurer's records and the Newsletter Editor's mailing list. This allows
us to determine all dues payers for the last three years. We will be able
to conserve expenses because the cost of the newsletter is high. Nonpaying
members will be dropped from the mailing list effective in the fall of
1999. (This is a great opportunity to join as a Life Member -- and never
receive any more requests for dues!)
And while we are talking about finances, we have several
funds: Life Membership, Genealogy, Education, Housing and Working. You
may, at any time, contribute any amount to any of these funds. Unfortunately,
everything is expensive. So anything you can do now, or perhaps through
estate planning, will be appreciated. More will be mentioned about our
finances at our Annual Meeting.
Your Association is strong and doing well. Your Board
now, and after the elections this year, along with each of you, will keep
it strong and always looking for better ways to improve.