Hi LoveMyKids - thanks for that insight. I've been trying to mesh this thing out because I know those that are on this Research Committee are ready to be off. We have 3 staff members who just don't have time for the meetings, but they have been gracious enough to get us this far. I keep thinking that if we continue on with officers, we could at least make sure everyone that comes Thursday night has a spot. I have already lined up committees, just need chairpersons for each one plus we were thinking of having a chairperson for the committees overall. I'd like to see this involve as many as possible, but still have organization to it - especially dealing with money. I'll share the insight!!

Instead of a "board and president" why not operate as a "committee and chairperson"? It would be less likely to give the impression that this small group is taking control of the organization. Then the committee can work on programs, events, fundraising, by-laws, etc. and get all that stuff established for the year. Meanwhile, you also start a membership drive to get your numbers up. I would guess that by October you could have a pretty good sized group. In your constitution/by-laws make sure you have job descriptions for each board position. Then post the job descriptions, take nominations and have an election. Continue to let people join the committee as you find interested parties so you have a large pool of people feeding in ideas.

For all of you "old" pros, I have another situation. We had our meeting yesterday with the committee who has been responsible for getting this new PTO up. The great idea for getting officers into place is NOW - bring all interested parties together and see if you can agree among yourselves who will be president!! Granted, there are only 7 people who have even volunteered, but I'm not crazy about this idea. We don't have enough PTO members yet to have an election as we have not had a membership drive. We wanted to have officers into place before that. I'm running this meeting next week and I'm at a complete loss on how not to hurt any feelings - including mine!! I'm putting my name in the hat for President since I really want to see this thing fly. Any suggestions out there? Thanks!!