From the Executive Director

Dear Friends,

It has been a very busy six months, indeed. One of my first experiences brought me to a conference called “Global Leadership Models for Worcester, the United States, and the World: A Call to Action.” It was an excellent first step in networking with organizations doing work on a global level.

It is a gratifying experience when non-profit organizations pool their resources towards realization of a common goal. Over the summer I was approached by Dining for Women, which donated to GTL its contributions received during the month of August. This has proven to be a warm and wonderful collaborative relationship, which I am confident will continue.

Much of my effort has been devoted to the process of improving efficiency in the day-to-day operations of the organization. I am amazed at how much is accomplished by this team of volunteer Board members and one part-time employee (me)! One of my most satisfying experiences thus far has been my substantial involvement in the development of GTL’s first ever Strategic Plan, which is in its final draft stage.

Also, we are in the beginning stages of developing some tools that will assist us in following up with our recent secondary school graduates. We hope to be able to pilot this project in Kenya, then, eventually, to expand it to Uganda and Tanzania. While four Board members were in Africa last May, they compiled information profiling each country, the schools where girls receiving GTL scholarships matriculate, as well as some of the students themselves. I am in the midst of organizing their findings into a database which we hope to update annually.

In my first “From the Executive Director” I closed with a favorite quote that reminded me of GTL’s purpose. I would like to continue that practice. I leave you with the words of Dietrich Bonhöeffer who said, “Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility.” Until next time. . .