Impressions of a new Board member - to volunteer to join or not?
For a number of years I pondered every time I saw the call for new Board members, should I volunteer?
Yoga has been a significant part of my life for more years than I would like to count and I have often wanted to give something back for the richness it has given to my life. I thought about teaching but for various reasons decided this was not the path for me - so maybe being on the Board might be one way? The EIYC has been, and is, something that I treasure - this has been the home of my yoga journey and I am keen that others have the same opportunities that I have had. BUT what skills could I offer other than a love of yoga and the EIYC? I don’t have any skills in administration, finance, management so what could I give?
From the tentative email enquiry I was quickly reassured that my skills were more than adequate so I decided to go for it ......
Almost one year later... I have no regrets but rather gladness that I took the step. From the first meeting, I have felt welcomed and part of a very friendly and caring group of fellow Board members. I have been impressed with the thoughtfulness and care that everyone gives to all the issues raised (and there have been quite a few with the new website/booking system) and the general healthy discussion that takes place as everyone works together to make the EIYC the place I have so enjoyed over the years. I also quickly realised that just a fresh pair of eyes/views was a skill in itself and that we all have skills we can contribute even if they may not seem obvious at the beginning. Its also been enlightening to see the other side of the EIYC and how all the different components work and come together - a surprise to me but it has enriched my love of yoga.
Would I recommend it? ... Yes! Like me don’t feel you need to have special skills - every individual can bring something and you will become part of a welcoming group that does so much to keep the EIYC at the heart of the life of many.
- Jessie Paterson
