From the Boardroom, September, 2006

Lizette Venter
Commitment is Key
Coming from a commercial background you often think that running an NGO or non-profit organization should be somewhat different, and we tend to forget that what we need in business, we also need in a non-profit environment. The normal stuff like contracts and documents should be there to ensure that the organization is protected, but more than that, we need commitment.

Committed Volunteers
Firstly, we need commitment from our volunteers, and here the Lord has provided us with more than we deserve. We have a team of 12 volunteers that are prepared to offer their time, expertise and knowledge for nothing more than a thank you, with no guarantees of any promotion, high end salary or status. They’re doing this because the have a passion for young people and want to make a difference. So to all our volunteers: thank you for your commitment. May you be blessed.

Committed Partners
Secondly we also need commitment from our partners, and here once again the Lord has provided. We have been dealing with people outside the organization that are willing to train our volunteers, provide us with material and to support us in every way that they possibly can. Thanks to all who share our vision and who are willing to invest in 121.

Committed Schools
Thirdly we require commitment from the schools we deal with. It was so amazing that the Lord confirmed our purpose and calling in schools specifically this week, when we needed it so badly. The needs in schools are huge, and there are teachers who are willing to allow us insight and input into their full disciplinary processes. Thanks to our first schools who were prepared to give us a chance to test the programs in their schools, at risk to themselves.

Committed Sponsors
Thanks for the commitment from our sponsors, who although knowing very little of what we are busy with, are still prepared to give. The Lord provided a projector and some speakers for us to use during our programs, finances to pay our debts, and the necessary funds to purchase some material and to employ our first semi-permanent youth worker in Shoshanguve. We thank all of you who made this possible.

Committed Prayers
Lastly thanks to those who promised to pray for us and provide their commitment in the still of the morning or the late of the night as they talk to God. We know that your input into the organization is not always visible, but without this, we would probably not have survived the past few weeks. The positive impact we are seeing we contribute to the time you spend in prayer.

In order therefore for 121@VMA to exist and to function as an organization we need committed people. If you want to offer your commitment in any of the above ways, please feel free to contact us. We always need more hands, more material, more money, more prayer.