This is a story of how Joyce Wedseltoft was able to pursue her passion while making the Pasadena community a little bit stronger.
Joyce, recently retired, wanted to find a way to give back, particularly in the Arts community. Joyce spoke with Melanie Goodyear, the Executive Director of Jericho Road Pasadena, and Melanie recommended she sign up for a Nonprofit Board training program, organized annually by JRP, called The Leadership Connection.
The Leadership Connection (TLC), which consists of 3 sessions, was developed and presented by Mitch Dorger and Judy Plunkett, two experts in the nonprofit field. Joyce attended the training in late 2015, along with 9 other participants, and she learned how a strong Nonprofit Board should function, and how to be an effective Board member. “Mitch and Judy were extremely knowledgeable and the presentation was an excellent way to share their expertise.”
Shortly after Joyce completed TLC, Melanie heard about an opening on Board of the Pasadena Arts Council. Melanie knew about Joyce’s interest in the Arts and thought she would be a perfect fit.
The Pasadena Arts Council empowers independent artists by providing a range of services, including managing their finances. This was the perfect opportunity for Joyce to use her Board training, along with her knowledge of the arts, to fulfill her passion of getting involved in the Arts community.
Most new Board members take a year or more to engage in an effective way with a nonprofit organization. Having attended TLC, Joyce could make a difference almost immediately. Robert Crouch, Executive Director of the Arts Council, knew right away that Joyce would be a wonderful addition to the Board. “Joyce came across as a seasoned Board member with years of experience; she was able to make contributions almost immediately,” said Robert. “It was like we had been working together for a long time. It’s wonderful how Jericho Road Pasadena’s training prepared Joyce to make significant contributions to the Board.”
“It’s exciting for me to meet the artists in the community and hear about their success and challenges,” said Joyce. Clearly, attending The Leadership Connection and joining the Pasadena Arts Council Board has been a perfect fit for Joyce!
Many thanks to pro bono consultant Mark Rice for writing this article! Mark is a nonprofit marketing consultant, grant writer and website content manager.