03-23-2010

SAEC Meeting

March 23, 2010

Members present:  Bill, Toni, Eric, Krystal, Marcia, William, Anne, Connie

Guest:  Todd Dunfield

  1.  Todd Dunfield: Presentation regarding Earth Share, a non-profit Environmental organization composed of 60+ Environmental groups.  (See www.esw.org)

They have a work place giving program much like United Way.  Would SAEC support EarthShare giving campaigns?  In most cases something like this does not impact the amount given to United Way or pit social needs against environmental needs.  It just gives people more options for their giving.

Questions were asked regarding projects on our side of the state (Eastern Washington).  These include WTA and Bike Alliance:  Conservation Futures land in the Valley, and the Liberty Lake 7 mile loop.  Mt. Spokane....construction for hikers and bikers.

We will consider this a formal proposal.  Would be housed with Community Service Committee

Concerns raised include the timing in a bad economy and the fact that building rails for hiking and biking is less environmental than it is recreational.

We have local organizations that are very active in environmental issues.  We should look into all of the organizations supported by Earth Share before we make a decision.  Do we want our money to go to the other side of the state?  May be time to re-energize/recommit to our efforts for United Way....more PR, kickoff, etc, etc......at Fall Open meeting.  The United Way people are willing to come help.  Work through Nancy Masingale to gear up for next fall.

  1.  Bill:  Report on Meeting with Dan Berryman, Heather Murray, Gretchen, Joan, Mike H, Angela and Bill.

Held at HR.  Meeting was positive.  Outcome is that President and Vice President of SA will meet with the HR reps on a regular basis.  Goal is to promote better relations and communications with HR.  Not about Peer Advisor status.  To address general mistrust. 

Krystal Burns suggested we have next social in April at HR.

  1. Spring Open meeting
  • Not having breakfast.  Money has been donated to Haiti in lieu of the meal.  Has been posted in letter to Steve Hess and his report.
  • Budget:  If we don't spend our budget this year and give it back, will we be given less next year?
  • Spring Open Meeting Team:  William, Anne, Angela, Toni,  Marcia: chair. 
  1. William:  Cares Initiative.  Assigning to service committee...William will help them role that out.  Top of agenda for next meeting.