As our previous year came to a close and as our new year began, I wanted to choose a fitting theme for the FWMoM end-of-year banquet. The right theme would speak to both the previous year as well as the coming year, and as such would need to symbolize both endings and beginnings. What better symbol than keys?! 

Keys are symbols of opening and closing. In itself, a key is a tool that can be used to lock or unlock something of value (because if it didn’t have value, why bother locking it away?). In the right person’s hands, a key can be a valuable resource. When presented with a key, you are essentially receiving and accepting a new opportunity. 

Our newly-installed executive board members for 2019-2020 were presented with “keys” to success in their positions this year. These volunteers work hard to further the *mission of the organization. Our mission gives us direction, and within that mission are core values. I presented these values as keys to the different positions as follows:

• President: organization, delegation, and professionalism.

• 1st Vice President in charge of Membership: friendliness, responsiveness, and enthusiasm.

• Programs: preparation, collaboration, and creativity. 

• Social: an outgoing personality, hospitality, and inclusiveness.

• Secretary: attention to detail, accuracy, and timeliness.

• Treasurer:efficiency, precision, and promptness.

• Fundraising & Sponsorship: cooperation, persistence, and fellowship.

• Parliamentarian: expertise, instructiveness, and adherence.

• Special Events: reliability, confidence, and innovativeness.

In addition to the keys for board members, there are keys to success for all members of an organization. Especially for new members, I believe it is important to receive direction from more experienced members, specifically on how to get the most out of your experience. I was able to put together the following “FWMOM” keys to success to fulfill that purpose:

“F” is for... Fellowship: Make the most of your membership by attending meetings, socials, and playdates. Get involved and get to know your fellow MoMs.

“W” is for... Work together: Volunteer for a committee, take part in community service 

projects, or deliver a meal to a new MoM. Join in the fun and the mission of FWMoM.

“M” is for... a “Me, too” attitude: So many times we can feel like we are alone in our struggles, but the truth is that many of us have shared experiences. Rather than judgement, you will find understanding in this tribe. 

“O” is for... Own it: This organization’s success is dependent on its members. If you have an idea, share it. If you want to make a change, start it. FWMoM is what we make it, so let’s make it great!

“M” is for...Make time: You get what you give. If you put your time and effort into getting involved, you will get a lot out of it and form amazing relationships. Invest in yourself and invest in others.

 

I am so excited to see where this year takes us, and I have high hopes for the future of FWMoM. I am honored to be your president this year, and am grateful to serve alongside so many other amazing board members. We recognize that our accomplishments are not to the credit of any one individual, but rather to the group as a whole. Just as each board member has their own specific tasks to accomplish throughout the year, we all have our own Keys to success within the organization. When we choose to unlock that potential, there’s no limit to what we can achieve! Therefore, I hope each of you will join us in “opening the door” to another successful year.

*The Mission of FWMoM is to enhance the understanding of the unique experience of raising multiples through the exchange of information and engaging with the wider community through fellowship and service opportunities.

Author: Ashley Hughes is a twin mom to 4 year olds, James and Timothy. She is a wife, baker, artist, and the President of Fort Worth Mothers of Multiples.