Managing Change in the Blog Post Topic

I have been catching up on reading this week and mulling over the managing change topic that we discussed at the conclusion of class last week. Now, I realize that I was getting ahead of the schedule.  It appears that I should still be pontificating about something such as finding an organization to represent this semester.  I’ll make a u-turn and hope to arrive on time.

My search for an organization(s) to write for this semester involved a few spins through my mental Rolodex.  I have received funds through a number of grants award to Midland College for the developmental writing program.  This experience led me to first consider seeking an opportunity to write for a grant to fund the development of a grammar program that utilizes manipulatives.  It would primarily serve students that have not passed the writing section of the THEA.  These students are often learning English as a second language, have developmental challenges in language, or are returning to school after an extensive hiatus.  A second grant would be needed to implement the program in the Language Hub. 

I decided, however, to take a break from my career pursuits and write for other needs for non-profits that interest me.  I want to help these non-profits, but I also want a break from the subjects that have demanded the majority of my time the last couple of years.   I thought of my friend Beth that works with her husband (a chef) to provide food to people that are economically disadvantaged near Charleston, South Carolina.  I queried her about the possibility, and she was thrilled.  Communication since then has been difficult because of the overwhelming time constraints that she has.  I hope that we are able to follow through with this.  Perhaps, it could actually relieve her of one of her overwhelming concerns—where will the food come from?

A few years ago when my daughter was exploring possible careers, we contacted the local midwives to learn about that career opportunity.  This opened my eyes to a new world.  Now, because I gave birth to both of my children in a hospital with the assistance of an obstetrician, I am a strong proponent for midwife-assisted delivery.  Kelli, one of the midwives, has recently taken on managing a non-profit clinic in Haiti.  The clinic is the only 24/7 facility for child birth for a huge region.  I am just beginning to learn about the scope and depth of the need for Mama Baby Haiti.

As I think about my process identifying these organizations, I imagine that a volunteer grant writer should have unlimited opportunities.  I can hardly imagine a non-profit or educational entity that would hear, “Would you like for me to assist you in securing funds for your service passion?” and not answer, “Absolutely!”  Waldo would come out of hiding for that one.