If you have contact changes, simply email the chapter service center at csc@mnwt.org with your updated information, and don't forget to tell your local Membership Vice President.
The MNWT Foundation has once again been nominated to participate in City & County Credit Union’s Making the Greater Good Even Greater contest! The contest will officially kick off with voting starting Thursday, April 8 at 12:00 AM. Voting ends Thursday, April 15 at 11:59pm. People can vote once per day, per email. If users try to use the same email more than once per day, they will be sent directly to the results page – their second vote will not be counted. At the end of the voting period, the non-profit with the most votes will win $2,000! To keep the suspense building for our winning organization, voting results will be hidden on Tuesday, April 13 at 10:00am. Make sure to like City & County’s Facebook page for contest updates & to share voting links. You can also directly share the link below. Start gathering your members & let them know voting begins at midnight!
Ask your chapter members to vote and forward to their friends and family. The link will also be posted on all MNWT Facebook pages for sharing! Remember to vote DAILY using each email address that you have! Set an alarm on your phone to remind you at the same time each day as you can only vote once every 24 hours.
We would like to encourage chapters to plan a local get-together with your members at 10am on April 10, 2021. This can be a remarkably simple event like a meetup at a park or a parking lot. Is there a coffee shop or café in your community that you can gather at? Maybe it's even a front yard or garage of a member?
What would you do during this time? First, just get together safely and just say hi and check in with each other. You can add in an activity or service project like a collection, making cards, or assembling bags for a shelter. Whatever you do, keep it simple and enjoy being together.
How will MNWT support you? Let us know what you are doing! You may have an Exec Council member join you to say Hi! For every 10 chapters that let us know they are participating, we will hold a drawing for a gift card. Also, share your events on Facebook with the MNWT Membership and we will share these events as well. Make sure you take pictures of your event too and send them to either mvp@mnwt.org or pr@mnwt.org.
We are looking forward to hearing how you and your chapters are participating in MNWT Get Together Day on April 10!, 2021.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Any chapter President who registers for LOTS will be entered in a drawing for a prize at Annual Convention. See CIP for LOTS flyer. Hello MNWT chapters. LOTS (Local Officer Training Session) is scheduled for Saturday 5/1/2021 at Resurrection Church in Monticello. There is a zoom option as well. I will need a separate registration for each person attending. To register, click here. See the registration form for fees. Please note the deadline of forms being postmarked by 4/12/21. Any questions, call me at 612-735-0053.
2021-2022 Presidential & Staff Candidates A member since 2009 Anna Nichols started her WT journey with the New Hope chapter, looking for a way to connect with others and make friends It took months before she was able to stand up at a chapter meeting and even say her name To say she was timid would be an understatement As her confidence grew, she started to experience the amazing things MNWT offers members throughout our state Chapter positions led to district positions, which lead to state positions Always wanting to give back and share with others the wonderful experiences and opportunities given to her, Anna looks at every new obstacle as a gift not a challenge. MNWT Finance Committee Fudge Fundraiser The Finance Committee is excited to offer Walnut Grove Fudge at Annual Convention at Arrowwood Resort! You can also place a pre-order to ensure that you can get the flavors you want! This is one of our most popular fundraisers, and the fudge will sell out, so be sure to get yours when you arrive. There are two new items available that are not listed on the order form - delicious Sea Salt Caramel Fudge and Caramels, both priced at $6.00. Please note that the sugar free varieties priced at $10.00 per box will only be available for pre-orders. Pre-orders and money are due in hand May 1, and all orders must be picked up at convention. Use the order form, and send it to Amy Pumper at the address given along with payment for the order. If you have questions, please contact pumperamy@gmail.com. Your order will be ready for you to pick up on Friday night at the State Store.
The Finance Committee is excited to offer Walnut Grove Fudge at Annual Convention at Arrowwood Resort! You can also place a pre-order to ensure that you can get the flavors you want! This is one of our most popular fundraisers, and the fudge will sell out, so be sure to get yours when you arrive. There are two new items available that are not listed on the order form - delicious Sea Salt Caramel Fudge and Caramels, both priced at $6.00. Please note that the sugar free varieties priced at $10.00 per box will only be available for pre-orders.
Pre-orders and money are due in hand May 1, and all orders must be picked up at convention. Use the order form, and send it to Amy Pumper at the address given along with payment for the order. If you have questions, please contact pumperamy@gmail.com. Your order will be ready for you to pick up on Friday night at the State Store.
When considering a position as district director, state program manager, staff, or even state president, you will want to make an informed decision. Talk to others who have held these positions. Gather information, reflect on your passion and commitment, and determine where your future path might take you. And COB Cat is always glad to answer your questions and visit with you as you consider taking the step to be a member of the MNWT Executive Council. To serve as an elections committee rep from your area, please contact COB Cat Shuman at 612.812.9198. To file for a state position, forms are found in the State Bidding category of the Book of Forms. The following information is intended to help guide you in your decision-making process:
District Director Administrative Vice President Michelle Kocak-Jones and your current district director can provide insight and information to help guide your decision and desire to serve as District Director (DD). By filling this vital role and communication link between the state organization and the local chapters, we can ensure districts and chapters are off to a successful start in the new year and remain well informed while on their journeys to success. Most districts elect their DD at their spring district meeting. Make your decision early to allow plenty of time for planning as you prepare for becoming a DD. If you have questions or are interested in a District Director position, contact avp@mnwt.org. State Program Manager - these are filled for 2021-2022 Contact Programming Vice President Anna Nichols and the current SPM in the area(s) for which you might be interested. Ask, seek, and gather information from them to help you make a decision on bidding for an SPM position. They can assist you with the paperwork as you prepare your bid for Winter State Convention. If you have questions or are interested in bidding as a State Program Manager, contact pvp@mnwt.org. You might want to consider applying for one of the Programming Assistant positions if you are not ready to take on an SPM position. Contact COB Cat at cob@mnwt.org for more information on these positions. The form for these are also on the State Bidding category of the Book of Forms. Staff - these are filled for 2021-2022 Step right up! Chairman of the Board Cat Shumcan can answer your questions and help guide you through the process of deciding whether a staff position is right for you. Staff positions are selected by the presidential candidate(s), and their staff selection process has many facets (i.e. experience, location, interest in position). By filing for staff and indicating your interest, you are placing your name in the forefront for consideration. Confidentiality is important should you decide to seek a staff position and your intent should only be shared with the Chair of the Elections committee (aka Chairman of the Board) at this time. December 1, 2020 is the earliest date in which you may file your intent with the chairman of the board. If you have questions or are interested in filing for a State Staff position, contact cob@mnwt.org.
Administrative Vice President Michelle Kocak-Jones and your current district director can provide insight and information to help guide your decision and desire to serve as District Director (DD). By filling this vital role and communication link between the state organization and the local chapters, we can ensure districts and chapters are off to a successful start in the new year and remain well informed while on their journeys to success. Most districts elect their DD at their spring district meeting. Make your decision early to allow plenty of time for planning as you prepare for becoming a DD. If you have questions or are interested in a District Director position, contact avp@mnwt.org.
Contact Programming Vice President Anna Nichols and the current SPM in the area(s) for which you might be interested. Ask, seek, and gather information from them to help you make a decision on bidding for an SPM position. They can assist you with the paperwork as you prepare your bid for Winter State Convention. If you have questions or are interested in bidding as a State Program Manager, contact pvp@mnwt.org.
You might want to consider applying for one of the Programming Assistant positions if you are not ready to take on an SPM position. Contact COB Cat at cob@mnwt.org for more information on these positions. The form for these are also on the State Bidding category of the Book of Forms.
Step right up! Chairman of the Board Cat Shumcan can answer your questions and help guide you through the process of deciding whether a staff position is right for you. Staff positions are selected by the presidential candidate(s), and their staff selection process has many facets (i.e. experience, location, interest in position). By filing for staff and indicating your interest, you are placing your name in the forefront for consideration. Confidentiality is important should you decide to seek a staff position and your intent should only be shared with the Chair of the Elections committee (aka Chairman of the Board) at this time. December 1, 2020 is the earliest date in which you may file your intent with the chairman of the board. If you have questions or are interested in filing for a State Staff position, contact cob@mnwt.org.
President Illeana’s Birthday Challenge 3rd Trimester Challenge: Let’s all celebrate in MARCH with President Illeana and give her what she wants most…NEW MEMBERS! In recognition of Illeana’s birthday on March 30, we are looking for at least 30 new members in March. For every new member signed (reported to CSC by email, paper form, or USWT Add & Change form) in March, the chapter will be entered into a drawing. If we hit at least 30 NMAs for the month, one chapter will win a Silly Supper M-Night hosted by the Membership Team (CMVP Jenise, MVP Tevyan) & President Illeana. 2021 Membership Calendar Note: please consult the MNWT official calendar at www.mnwt.org, under Events to ensure that other key dates are not missed. Jan 29-30: Winter State Convention Feb 24: MNWT Webinar March: USWT Membership Emphasis Month Mar 15: 3rd Trimester Early Bird Renewals Due Mar 20: Statewide Committee Meetings Mar 28-Apr 3: MNWT Membership Week Mar 30: President Illeana’s Birthday April 15: 3rd Trimester Dues Billing Due April 18-24: National Volunteer Recognition Week April 30: 3rd Trimester Closeout & MVP Challenge Due May 1: MNWT 2021-2022 LOTS training May 21-23: MNWT Annual Convention
3rd Trimester Challenge: Let’s all celebrate in MARCH with President Illeana and give her what she wants most…NEW MEMBERS! In recognition of Illeana’s birthday on March 30, we are looking for at least 30 new members in March. For every new member signed (reported to CSC by email, paper form, or USWT Add & Change form) in March, the chapter will be entered into a drawing. If we hit at least 30 NMAs for the month, one chapter will win a Silly Supper M-Night hosted by the Membership Team (CMVP Jenise, MVP Tevyan) & President Illeana.
Note: please consult the MNWT official calendar at www.mnwt.org, under Events to ensure that other key dates are not missed.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Any chapter President who registers for LOTS will be entered in a drawing for a prize at Annual Convention. See CIP for LOTS flyer.
3rd Trimester Challenge: There is an incentive of $150 from the MNWT Foundation for any extensions being completed by 4/30/21. There is currently an extension in progress to the Bowlus Area (North of St Cloud; South of Little Falls, and West of Royalton). If you know of anyone in the Bowlus Area -OR- any community without a chapter who would enjoy being a member of the Minnesota Women of Today, please contact extentions@mnwt.org. Two & Under Chapters: St Joseph, and Rogers-Otsego-Dayton What does this mean? This is a chapter that is in its first two years after chartering. We are committed to this chapter through training, helping with projects, and guiding in growth. After two years, the chapter will graduate as a full-fledged chapter.
3rd Trimester Challenge: There is an incentive of $150 from the MNWT Foundation for any extensions being completed by 4/30/21. There is currently an extension in progress to the Bowlus Area (North of St Cloud; South of Little Falls, and West of Royalton). If you know of anyone in the Bowlus Area -OR- any community without a chapter who would enjoy being a member of the Minnesota Women of Today, please contact extentions@mnwt.org.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Review my CIPs for information on reporting your local programming activity to the MNWT. Complete the 3rd trimester report between April 24-30 to receive a fun surprise. Every chapter that completes a report in the 3rd trimester will be entered into a drawing for a programming basket. Why #1: When your chapter reports its total, you have an official record of your donations and service hours. Why #2: Reporting your local programming to the MNWT allows the organization to better support and promote your unique community. Why #3: Recognition and prizes are fun! Completing the report costs you nothing and can be done in less than 10 minutes. In return your chapter gets MNWT and USWT recognition along with chances to win fun stuff. 3-Year Priority Area Bid At the Fall State Business Meeting we voted on our next Priority Area. Crescent Cove, Respite & Hospice Home for Kids offers care and support to children and young adults with a shortened life-expectancy, and their families who love them. The Crescent Cove Respite & Hospice Home for Kids is a vibrant and joyful home-away-from home for kids with life-threatening conditions, where each moment is embraced and celebrated. Children and families throughout MN are able to benefit from these services. All services and stays provided at Crescent Cove to kids and families are at no out-of-pocket cost thanks to the generosity of donors who make this possible. Thank you so much for inviting Crescent Cove to share more about our mission with the Minnesota Women of Today! Below is additional information about our organization to learn more, which are just a few of the reasons I am so passionate about the amazing support we provide for our kids and families. I hope you find some inspiration in these links.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Review my CIPs for information on reporting your local programming activity to the MNWT. Complete the 3rd trimester report between April 24-30 to receive a fun surprise. Every chapter that completes a report in the 3rd trimester will be entered into a drawing for a programming basket.
At the Fall State Business Meeting we voted on our next Priority Area. Crescent Cove, Respite & Hospice Home for Kids offers care and support to children and young adults with a shortened life-expectancy, and their families who love them. The Crescent Cove Respite & Hospice Home for Kids is a vibrant and joyful home-away-from home for kids with life-threatening conditions, where each moment is embraced and celebrated. Children and families throughout MN are able to benefit from these services. All services and stays provided at Crescent Cove to kids and families are at no out-of-pocket cost thanks to the generosity of donors who make this possible. Thank you so much for inviting Crescent Cove to share more about our mission with the Minnesota Women of Today! Below is additional information about our organization to learn more, which are just a few of the reasons I am so passionate about the amazing support we provide for our kids and families. I hope you find some inspiration in these links.
Tawn Hanson, MNWT Community Connections SPM
3rd Trimester Challenge: Support your Local Food Shelf and be entered into a drawing for a gift basket. “Experts say it is likely that there is more hunger in the United States today than at any other point since the Census Bureau began collecting comparable data about a household’s ability to get enough food.” (Washington Post, 11/25/2020) Community Connection Awards Listed below are the MNWT Year End Community Connections Awards and a brief description of them. There are PDF or Online nomination forms that can be found at here. Nominations are due to me by April 15, 2021. Please consider submitting a nomination for: Civic or Environmental Award: how did this activity civically improve your town or city, or how did it promote citizenship in your community? How did this activity improve the environment in your community? Community Impact Award: what lasting impact did the project have on the community? Joint Ventures Award: how did the Women of Today chapter and community organization successfully collaborate?
3rd Trimester Challenge: Support your Local Food Shelf and be entered into a drawing for a gift basket.
“Experts say it is likely that there is more hunger in the United States today than at any other point since the Census Bureau began collecting comparable data about a household’s ability to get enough food.” (Washington Post, 11/25/2020)
Listed below are the MNWT Year End Community Connections Awards and a brief description of them. There are PDF or Online nomination forms that can be found at here. Nominations are due to me by April 15, 2021. Please consider submitting a nomination for:
Melanie Chenoweth, MNWT Living & Learning SPM
My 3rd Trimester Challenges are as follows: Chapter Challenge: Have a zoom certification night where you fill out your forms while chatting with each other. Individual Challenge: Write a letter to yourself saying what you wish for yourself this year. Put it away to read at the end of the year. Mini Challenges: February: Drink water! Track how much you are getting. Is it enough? No? Set a goal to drink just 8oz more a day. Let me know how much you are drinking and what your goal is. March: Declutter! Go through a drawer, a cabinet, or a closet. What can you donate? What can you repurpose? Let me know what you did! April: Drop a Postcard! It is my birthday month and I challenge you to mail a card to someone just to say hello. Let me know when you do.
My 3rd Trimester Challenges are as follows:
Jennifer Auger, MNWT Priority Area SPM
3rd Trimester Challenge: Any chapter or member that promotes or provides information on Wishes & More to a person of interest outside of MNWT will be entered into a prize drawing. This is our final opportunity to officially promote Wishes & More as our Priority Area……let’s find a child who deserves a wish! I must receive notification of the promotion by April 15 via email, Facebook messenger or text. Here are the videos that were presented at my Winter State 2021 Forum: Informational video & Kelly's Wish. 2021 Winter Ball-A Night of Stars NEW DATE: April 10, 2021 5:30 pm-12:30 am | Marriott City Center, Minneapolis | West Saint Paul, MN 55118 United States An evening of celebration of our WAM All-Star Kids battling serious medical conditions, along with the Sponsors & Donors who assist us in creating magical moments. Enjoy good food and drink, great company, active auction bidding, and an after-party to remember! T-shirt for Sale At Mid-Year exec council, we had a very special musical performance by the “Fab 5-MNWT’s very own PVP and her SPMs” featuring “YOU can be sexy in this shirt!” Following we had a unanimous vote to sell Wishes & More T-shirts as a fundraiser. Get your very own shirt for just $10, with $5 profit going towards wishes! Shirts are white with the heart logo on them (see CIP for the image). Size youth small-adult 3XL available. Email priority-area@mnwt.org. Payment via PayPal, Venmo, or check. Delivery will be arranged through Exec Council members.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Any chapter or member that promotes or provides information on Wishes & More to a person of interest outside of MNWT will be entered into a prize drawing. This is our final opportunity to officially promote Wishes & More as our Priority Area……let’s find a child who deserves a wish! I must receive notification of the promotion by April 15 via email, Facebook messenger or text.
Here are the videos that were presented at my Winter State 2021 Forum: Informational video & Kelly's Wish.
NEW DATE: April 10, 2021 5:30 pm-12:30 am | Marriott City Center, Minneapolis | West Saint Paul, MN 55118 United States
An evening of celebration of our WAM All-Star Kids battling serious medical conditions, along with the Sponsors & Donors who assist us in creating magical moments. Enjoy good food and drink, great company, active auction bidding, and an after-party to remember!
At Mid-Year exec council, we had a very special musical performance by the “Fab 5-MNWT’s very own PVP and her SPMs” featuring “YOU can be sexy in this shirt!” Following we had a unanimous vote to sell Wishes & More T-shirts as a fundraiser. Get your very own shirt for just $10, with $5 profit going towards wishes! Shirts are white with the heart logo on them (see CIP for the image). Size youth small-adult 3XL available. Email priority-area@mnwt.org. Payment via PayPal, Venmo, or check. Delivery will be arranged through Exec Council members.
Jeny Ohr, MNWT Women's Wellness SPM
3rd Trimester Challenge: I am going to do things a little different and have a monthly focus and challenge that goes with that month. For each challenge you complete, your name or chapter will be entered into a gift drawing at Annual Convention. January’s focus is ending the mental health stigma. Your challenge is to go onto the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) and let me know that you have pledged to end the stigma surrounding mental health. It is so important to get our stories out there, to let other people know they are not alone in their struggles. February’s focus will be domestic abuse prevention. Send me an email or tag me in a picture of any activity or event you do to help prevent domestic violence. Don’t forget to send in a transmittals to the USWT DVA Kathy Hansen. March’s focus is March of Dimes. It is so important to make sue that each mother and child has a safe environment when they are giving birth. Let me know how much money your chapter raises for the March of Dimes, or if they participate in an event for March of Dimes and your name or chapter will be entered into the 3rd trimester WW Challenge. April’s focus will be promoting not only our individual mental health, but also our family’s. Let me know each fun event you do with your family throughout the month of April.
3rd Trimester Challenge: I am going to do things a little different and have a monthly focus and challenge that goes with that month. For each challenge you complete, your name or chapter will be entered into a gift drawing at Annual Convention.
Glorie Balfanz, MNWT Youth of Today SPM
3rd Trimester Challenge: Participate in the Outstanding Awards Fundraiser between January 1 and April 1, to have a chance to win a prize. Here is the video presented at my Winter State 2021 Forum by Guest Speaker Allison from Children's Minnesota: Cancer Kids Fund Caden's Story Kellen's Story
3rd Trimester Challenge: Participate in the Outstanding Awards Fundraiser between January 1 and April 1, to have a chance to win a prize.
Here is the video presented at my Winter State 2021 Forum by Guest Speaker Allison from Children's Minnesota:
The five building blocks listed were taken from this site; check it out for a full detail on each block.
Submit a nomination for a Community Connections Year End Award 50 points AND/OR Hold an M Event during Membership Week (3/28-4/3) 25 points AND/OR Sign a member in March for President Illeana’s Birthday 25 points AND/OR Reach 85% Retention for 3rd Trimester 50 points AND/OR At least TWO chapter members attend February Statewide Webinar 25 points AND/OR Submit a Chapter Article to the State NEWSLET 25 points
Maximum of 100 points
Year-End Evaluations Due April 24; the form is attached to this CIP, and can be found on the MNWT website. Please reach out if you need any assistance completing the evaluation. It is a great tool to review your goals, adjust as needed, and to share with future State Delegates.
Due April 24; the form is attached to this CIP, and can be found on the MNWT website. Please reach out if you need any assistance completing the evaluation. It is a great tool to review your goals, adjust as needed, and to share with future State Delegates.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Chapter and district treasurers that complete 4 of the 5 following challenge items will receive an incentive and be entered into a drawing at year-end for an awesome gift. Please send it to me at fvp@mnwt.org by April 30, 2021. Make a donation to state Ways & Means (any amount); Complete your chapter sales tax and submit by February 5, 2021; Report on a local ways & means project that your chapter or district has done or is doing for 3rd trimester; Make a purchase from the state store during the 3rd trimester; and Send in the name of your treasurer for the 2021-2022 year. MNWT Clothing Store In cooperation with Warroad Threads, we are now able to offer MNWT branded clothing. We have quite a selection, including T-shirts, polo shirts, pants, jackets and even face masks – all with the MNWT logo. There are various colors available as well as sizes up to 4XL. Shipping is free on orders of $50.00 or more. Shipping is direct to you, so you don’t have to wait for a convention or meeting to get your order. Your order will also help support State Ways & Means. This is a great way to show your pride in our organization and to support the organization at the same time. If you post a picture on Facebook of yourself wearing any of the items that you order and provide a short review (ex: ordered a XL and fit was true to size or the L was a little too big, great choice of colors) and use hashtag #MNWTFinance. Thank you for your support! MNWT Financial Vice President Mary Hansen is Making Sense of Your Dollars Passport thru Minnesota Finance Committee Fundraiser Bakeless Goods $10 Donation $10.00 USD $20 Donation $20.00 USD $50 Donation $50.00 USD $100 Donation $100.00 USD Donor name, chapter & email Making Your Minutes Count with Secretary Barb 3rd Trimester Challenge: Please keep sending me your general meeting and district meeting minutes for review by May 10 to be entered in the Annual Convention drawing. Through the Looking Glass with Parliamentarian Melissa 3rd Trimester Challenge: Send me pictures of your chapter or district at zoom meeting, fighting zoom fatigue. Be creative and have some fun with this! How to Combat Zoom Fatigue Why do we find video calls so draining? In part, it’s because they force us to focus more intently on conversations in order to absorb information. They also require us to stare directly at a screen for minutes at a time without any visual or mental break, which is tiring. To make video calls less exhausting for yourself, try using a few research-based tips. Avoid multitasking. It may be tempting to get other work done on a video call but switching between tasks can cost you as much as 40 percent of your productive time. The next time you’re on a video chat, close any tabs or programs that might distract you, put your phone away, and stay present. Take mini breaks during longer calls by minimizing the video, moving it to behind your open applications, or just looking away from your computer now and then. Do some light stretching helps too, during breaks. Examples, yoga poses and stretching the neck and arms. If possible, sit on a balance ball or balance ball chair. While or when sharing your screen, standing up like you would in person meeting or presentation helps too getting the blood flow(do not worry they won’t be able to see you), or cast your meeting into a big screen where attendees can see you standing up presenting on a big screen like they would in a conferences or corporate meeting. Hydrate often, drink water. Check your calendar for the next few days to see if there are any conversations you could have over phone or email instead. Especially in situations where you’re communicating with people outside of your organization, don’t feel obligated to send a Zoom link. Often, a phone call is more appropriate. Click here for more detail on zoom fatigue. Shine with Presidential Assistant Wendy Gifts for Illeana, Gifts for YOU! As part of President Illeana’s Year, I will have the FUN job of shopping for many trinkets and tokens of our chapters' and state's appreciation for the hard work that will go into this year. Because of this, I am asking for your chapters’ and districts’ assistance in funding the shopping fun! I am asking for Chapters and Districts to send a contribution to the MNWT Chapter Service Center to assist me in funding the treats and gifts that will be heading her way. Those who send $10 or more, memo marked “Presidential Gift,” by April 1 will be entered into a drawing to receive a collection of gifts for your chapter or district to enjoy to enhance a meeting or M-night! This year, I would like to present President Illeana with a quilt commemorating the year’s end. Those of you who would wish to participate, please create a square that is 7X7 (with 1-inch allowance for edges). This can be painted, embroidered, cross stitched, or anything else. GET CREATIVE. Just be sure it is flexible enough to sew into a quilt and washable. I would love to get chapter and district squares with your themes or city logos. Something to show her what represented your chapter, district, or executive council position this year. Not big on crafting that way? Donate a chapter T-shirt to me that I will use to mark the back of the quilt! I will want these by March 1. SEND ONE OR BOTH BY MARCH 1 AND BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR A GIFT. MNWT Covid-19 Information & Suggestions Due to the increased volume of requests to use the MNWT GoToMeeting account for meetings, we have created a GoToMeeting Request Form so Katie can better track the requests and have them all in one place. Requests will be honored in the order they are received based upon availability. Please use the link to request a time; she will respond within 24 business hours to your request to let you know if the time you request is available. If you have already requested a meeting, you do NOT need to request again using the form. District Meetings Minnesota Women of Today is recommending that districts do hold a meetings in an online format such as Zoom or GoToMeeting. The Spring meetings are normally when new district officers are elected, and it is encouraged to include that in your meeting agenda. AVP Michelle Kocak Jones will be coordinating this process with the district directors to ensure they are able to host an online meeting. Executive Director Katie Castro will assist with setting up meetings, as needed. Chapter Meetings & Events MNWT is not offering specific recommendations to chapters; however, you are welcome to contact Executive Director Katie Castro if you are looking for assistance in setting up an online meeting for your group, email csc@mnwt.org or call 952-406-8578. #mnwtstillsocial #mnwtfellowshipatadistance If your chapter is holding at-home fellowship activties, like virtual meetings using online meeting tools or other virtual activities, please use #mnwtstillsocial #mnwtfellowshipatadistance when posting your events on social media! We will share your posts on the MNWT Facebook page. What are you Cooking? by New Hope Women of Today Social distancing isn't fun, but it's what we do for the better good of all. Being apart, should not mean being alone. Let's all take a moment to share a go to recipe. It can be anything; a meal, snack, or comfort food. Email you recipe to recipe@NewHopeWT.org and we will share them on our website. #mnwtserviceatadistance Here is a great in-home chapter service project to do during the Covid-19 crisis! We know there are a bunch of sewers in our organization. Our communities are in need of face masks, and this is something we can all do while staying in our house! MNWT LL SPM Sarah Sundine was able to make 11 the other day with most of the supplies already in her house. Click here for a link from Allina with directions, as well as many drop off locations around the cities. If you are not near the Twin Cities, think of donating these to your local healthcare facillities, like elderly care, clinics, hospitals, etc. If you make a donation, you can send the quantity donated to ll@mnwt.org and I will track donations to report out. If your chapter is holding this at-home service activty or other activies similar to this, please use #mnwtserviceatadistance when posting your events on social media! We will share your posts on the MNWT Facebook page. Membership Renewal Cermony Great Nonprofits We have been honored with a Top-Rated Award for 2020 from GreatNonprofits! We have won a 2020 Top-Rated Award from @GreatNonprofits (#GreatNP2020)! Read inspiring stories about us and add your own! We appreciate all of your contributions! Great Nonprofits is the leading platform for community-sourced stories about nonproftis. These stories are submitted by people who know you best -- your clients, donors, volunteers, and others -- all those who have experienced the impact of nonprofit work up close! "GreatNonprofits focuses on helping people make great giving decisions through socially sourced feedback and reviews." ~Bill Gates of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Help us enable Great Nonprofits to harness a most authentic and most effective advertising—your stories submitted by people who know us best -- our members, donors, volunteers, and others we have supported -- all those who have experienced the impact of our nonprofit work up close! Please click the image to review us yourself! Important Information on the Website Chapter Service Center Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm MNWT State Plan of Action each year the MNWT Exec Council publishes their goals for the year, the state calendar, and much more information that can be used by local chapters. Chapter Emails each local chapter has an @mnwt.org email account; for more information on these, please click here. USWT Add and Change Form you only need to send one (1) copy to the MNWT Chapter Service Center, despite what the form says. Chapter Information Submission correct your chapter's information with this form. IRS Filing Link Form 990-N Annual Electronic Filing Requirement for Small Exempt Organizations. For a how-to guide, click here. MN Secretary of State Annual Renewal A nonprofit corporation files articles of incorporation with this office.. Chapter Officer Submission Time again to submit the listing of your chapter's Board of Directors. District Officer Submission Time again to submit the listing of your district's Board of Directors. Featured Member Form recognize members who make a difference made to the Women of Today organization or for growth experienced since joining. Quick Reference Email Addresses Exec Council (Staff, SPMs and DDs) MNWT Foundation & Statewide Committees MNWT Chapter Email Addresses | How to Use your MNWT Email | MNWT Email Link Website Scavenger Hunt Our new website may have you at a loss on where to find items you previously were used to finding. Here is a fun way to learn how to navigate it; the Web Team created a website scavenger hunt. There are ten (10) questions you and six (6) of the questions have a BONUS; these are optional. To prep for the hunt, you can review 2019 Revised Website Introduction for more information on the changes that were made. Let's Go Scavenger Hunting! A taskforce is setting up a program to communicate more frequently using this tool. Please consider signing up now to receive these communications in the future. Subscribe to Recieve eBlasts! Links to the Web Team can always be found on the Executive Director webpage.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Chapter and district treasurers that complete 4 of the 5 following challenge items will receive an incentive and be entered into a drawing at year-end for an awesome gift. Please send it to me at fvp@mnwt.org by April 30, 2021.
In cooperation with Warroad Threads, we are now able to offer MNWT branded clothing. We have quite a selection, including T-shirts, polo shirts, pants, jackets and even face masks – all with the MNWT logo. There are various colors available as well as sizes up to 4XL. Shipping is free on orders of $50.00 or more. Shipping is direct to you, so you don’t have to wait for a convention or meeting to get your order. Your order will also help support State Ways & Means. This is a great way to show your pride in our organization and to support the organization at the same time.
If you post a picture on Facebook of yourself wearing any of the items that you order and provide a short review (ex: ordered a XL and fit was true to size or the L was a little too big, great choice of colors) and use hashtag #MNWTFinance. Thank you for your support! MNWT Financial Vice President Mary Hansen is Making Sense of Your Dollars
3rd Trimester Challenge: Please keep sending me your general meeting and district meeting minutes for review by May 10 to be entered in the Annual Convention drawing.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Send me pictures of your chapter or district at zoom meeting, fighting zoom fatigue. Be creative and have some fun with this! How to Combat Zoom Fatigue Why do we find video calls so draining? In part, it’s because they force us to focus more intently on conversations in order to absorb information. They also require us to stare directly at a screen for minutes at a time without any visual or mental break, which is tiring. To make video calls less exhausting for yourself, try using a few research-based tips. Avoid multitasking. It may be tempting to get other work done on a video call but switching between tasks can cost you as much as 40 percent of your productive time. The next time you’re on a video chat, close any tabs or programs that might distract you, put your phone away, and stay present. Take mini breaks during longer calls by minimizing the video, moving it to behind your open applications, or just looking away from your computer now and then. Do some light stretching helps too, during breaks. Examples, yoga poses and stretching the neck and arms. If possible, sit on a balance ball or balance ball chair. While or when sharing your screen, standing up like you would in person meeting or presentation helps too getting the blood flow(do not worry they won’t be able to see you), or cast your meeting into a big screen where attendees can see you standing up presenting on a big screen like they would in a conferences or corporate meeting. Hydrate often, drink water. Check your calendar for the next few days to see if there are any conversations you could have over phone or email instead. Especially in situations where you’re communicating with people outside of your organization, don’t feel obligated to send a Zoom link. Often, a phone call is more appropriate. Click here for more detail on zoom fatigue.
3rd Trimester Challenge: Send me pictures of your chapter or district at zoom meeting, fighting zoom fatigue. Be creative and have some fun with this!
Why do we find video calls so draining? In part, it’s because they force us to focus more intently on conversations in order to absorb information. They also require us to stare directly at a screen for minutes at a time without any visual or mental break, which is tiring. To make video calls less exhausting for yourself, try using a few research-based tips.
Click here for more detail on zoom fatigue.
Gifts for Illeana, Gifts for YOU! As part of President Illeana’s Year, I will have the FUN job of shopping for many trinkets and tokens of our chapters' and state's appreciation for the hard work that will go into this year. Because of this, I am asking for your chapters’ and districts’ assistance in funding the shopping fun! I am asking for Chapters and Districts to send a contribution to the MNWT Chapter Service Center to assist me in funding the treats and gifts that will be heading her way. Those who send $10 or more, memo marked “Presidential Gift,” by April 1 will be entered into a drawing to receive a collection of gifts for your chapter or district to enjoy to enhance a meeting or M-night! This year, I would like to present President Illeana with a quilt commemorating the year’s end. Those of you who would wish to participate, please create a square that is 7X7 (with 1-inch allowance for edges). This can be painted, embroidered, cross stitched, or anything else. GET CREATIVE. Just be sure it is flexible enough to sew into a quilt and washable. I would love to get chapter and district squares with your themes or city logos. Something to show her what represented your chapter, district, or executive council position this year. Not big on crafting that way? Donate a chapter T-shirt to me that I will use to mark the back of the quilt! I will want these by March 1. SEND ONE OR BOTH BY MARCH 1 AND BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR A GIFT.
As part of President Illeana’s Year, I will have the FUN job of shopping for many trinkets and tokens of our chapters' and state's appreciation for the hard work that will go into this year. Because of this, I am asking for your chapters’ and districts’ assistance in funding the shopping fun! I am asking for Chapters and Districts to send a contribution to the MNWT Chapter Service Center to assist me in funding the treats and gifts that will be heading her way. Those who send $10 or more, memo marked “Presidential Gift,” by April 1 will be entered into a drawing to receive a collection of gifts for your chapter or district to enjoy to enhance a meeting or M-night!
This year, I would like to present President Illeana with a quilt commemorating the year’s end. Those of you who would wish to participate, please create a square that is 7X7 (with 1-inch allowance for edges). This can be painted, embroidered, cross stitched, or anything else. GET CREATIVE. Just be sure it is flexible enough to sew into a quilt and washable. I would love to get chapter and district squares with your themes or city logos. Something to show her what represented your chapter, district, or executive council position this year. Not big on crafting that way? Donate a chapter T-shirt to me that I will use to mark the back of the quilt! I will want these by March 1. SEND ONE OR BOTH BY MARCH 1 AND BE ENTERED INTO A DRAWING FOR A GIFT.
Minnesota Women of Today is recommending that districts do hold a meetings in an online format such as Zoom or GoToMeeting. The Spring meetings are normally when new district officers are elected, and it is encouraged to include that in your meeting agenda. AVP Michelle Kocak Jones will be coordinating this process with the district directors to ensure they are able to host an online meeting. Executive Director Katie Castro will assist with setting up meetings, as needed.
MNWT is not offering specific recommendations to chapters; however, you are welcome to contact Executive Director Katie Castro if you are looking for assistance in setting up an online meeting for your group, email csc@mnwt.org or call 952-406-8578.
If your chapter is holding at-home fellowship activties, like virtual meetings using online meeting tools or other virtual activities, please use #mnwtstillsocial #mnwtfellowshipatadistance when posting your events on social media! We will share your posts on the MNWT Facebook page.
What are you Cooking? by New Hope Women of Today Social distancing isn't fun, but it's what we do for the better good of all. Being apart, should not mean being alone. Let's all take a moment to share a go to recipe. It can be anything; a meal, snack, or comfort food. Email you recipe to recipe@NewHopeWT.org and we will share them on our website.
Social distancing isn't fun, but it's what we do for the better good of all. Being apart, should not mean being alone. Let's all take a moment to share a go to recipe. It can be anything; a meal, snack, or comfort food. Email you recipe to recipe@NewHopeWT.org and we will share them on our website.
Here is a great in-home chapter service project to do during the Covid-19 crisis! We know there are a bunch of sewers in our organization. Our communities are in need of face masks, and this is something we can all do while staying in our house! MNWT LL SPM Sarah Sundine was able to make 11 the other day with most of the supplies already in her house. Click here for a link from Allina with directions, as well as many drop off locations around the cities. If you are not near the Twin Cities, think of donating these to your local healthcare facillities, like elderly care, clinics, hospitals, etc.
If you make a donation, you can send the quantity donated to ll@mnwt.org and I will track donations to report out. If your chapter is holding this at-home service activty or other activies similar to this, please use #mnwtserviceatadistance when posting your events on social media! We will share your posts on the MNWT Facebook page.
We have won a 2020 Top-Rated Award from @GreatNonprofits (#GreatNP2020)! Read inspiring stories about us and add your own! We appreciate all of your contributions!
Great Nonprofits is the leading platform for community-sourced stories about nonproftis. These stories are submitted by people who know you best -- your clients, donors, volunteers, and others -- all those who have experienced the impact of nonprofit work up close!
"GreatNonprofits focuses on helping people make great giving decisions through socially sourced feedback and reviews." ~Bill Gates of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Help us enable Great Nonprofits to harness a most authentic and most effective advertising—your stories submitted by people who know us best -- our members, donors, volunteers, and others we have supported -- all those who have experienced the impact of our nonprofit work up close!
Our new website may have you at a loss on where to find items you previously were used to finding. Here is a fun way to learn how to navigate it; the Web Team created a website scavenger hunt. There are ten (10) questions you and six (6) of the questions have a BONUS; these are optional. To prep for the hunt, you can review 2019 Revised Website Introduction for more information on the changes that were made.
A taskforce is setting up a program to communicate more frequently using this tool. Please consider signing up now to receive these communications in the future. Subscribe to Recieve eBlasts!
Links to the Web Team can always be found on the Executive Director webpage.
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