The Voice of ARC Retirees
From ARCRA President Michael Carroll Updated 6/11/2019
May 9, 2019 Board MeetingAt the May 9 ARCRA board meeting, Treasurer Jack Campbell reported that through Q1 we show a small positive variance on an annual budget of about $40k and that we’re well-positioned to hit our “break-even” target at year-end. Regarding Membership, Chair Jim Hamilton noted that we have 1,387 members with a net gain of 34 in the Q1. Jim talked about membership challenges, primarily related to the changing profile of the Red Cross retiree, and of plans to explore new membership audiences. In addition, committee updates were provided by Ann Byrnes, (Fundraising), Dave Therkelsen, (Nominations), Nancy Blaschak(Communications), Dave, standing in for Harold Brooks, (Advocacy & Education). In addition,Ann provided an update on our Regions and Affiliated Groups and Administrator Christie Phillips briefed regarding her support for the Association. (The minutes of the meeting will be posted to Retiree Resources on the ARCRA website in the future.) Significantly, the Board was unanimous in supporting changes to the Bylaws related toPurposes and Membership and will formally vote approval soon. In a nutshell, the changes reflectARCRA’s commitment to supporting and recruitingRed Cross Retirement System members and“non-traditional” Red Cross retirees who elected a “lump-sum” payment, receive all or part of their benefit from an annuity company, or from the Red Cross Savings Plan. We are also working with Red Cross to find ways to connect with staff before they retire. ARCRA’s primary focus will continue to be onRetirement System members but we can also support Red Cross retirees who have earned this distinction but don’t (or won’t) receive their benefit directly from the Retirement System. With these bylaws changes, ARCRA can explore new audiences and expand our benefits to provide the incentive to join and renew. The new Purpose Statement will reaffirm ARCRA’s intent to keep members “up” on the mission work of the Red Cross and encourage them to give blood, volunteer and provide financial support and also reaffirms our commitment to helping retirees “stay-connected”. The Board meets again on July 25. | Recent news and features
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