Archive | February, 2013

Meet the CEF Alumni Advisory Council

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First meeting of the CEF Alumni Advisory Council

We are so excited! The CEF Alumni Advisory Council launched last night with its first official meeting. The convening members of the council met together with student advocates to discuss CEF’s values and vision moving forward, and how alumni can stay engaged and help the programs continue to serve those who follow in their footsteps. As one alumnus said in preparing for the meeting, “you have to give nourishment to something for it to continue to grow.”

The Alumni came up with fantastic ideas that they plan to implement together — everything from rallying friends to paint the office and fix our floors, to  organizing a craft sale to raise money for CEF. Each alumni member also described how he or she specifically wanted to give back to the organization, whether it was volunteering to help advocates, contributing their gifts in skilled trades, or helping with new member outreach. We are so grateful to have such generous alumni, who in the midst of very busy and demanding work and family lives still are willing to give back so meaningfully of their time, talents, and funds.

Stay tuned to hear more from the Alumni Advisory Council. Based on the discussion last night, great things to come!

Wonderful discussion!

Wonderful discussions with CEF Alumni, returning to give advice and volunteer for CEF

 

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Ten Reasons that I love CEF

(also, why you should become an advocate) 


1) The culture of shared learning – everyone is here to work together – not to work for each other.

2) The people, the people, the people – the supportive and loving team that makes CEF Happen.

3) The relationships I’ve made with students, members, and board members. Seriously, you guys are some of the best friends I could EVER ask for. (this is basically the same as number 2 but deserved at least two mentions)

4) Office Hours – As an advocate once said, “The CEF vibes are definitely real.” Being in the office makes my heart smile.

5) Commitment to trying new things and not saying “no.” This is perhaps what I admire most about CEF.

6) Opportunity Class Structure – the classes are taught by CEF Graduates – and who better to act as a mentor than someone who has been in your place before? I love this so, so much.

7) The lack of glorification and hierarchy within CEF’s organizational culture. Thanks guys, for letting me feel like I fit in and could be at home in the office even when I was a newbie.

8) Stories. Getting to hear people’s stories is the most humbling and transformative experience.

9) The Dedication of members to their goals and advocates to helping them reach their goals. I truly admire the drive and passion that everyone in CEF follows.

10) It’s a hands on, collaborative, people centered approach to helping people. What’s not to like?

*11 – when people bring food to the office it is pretty great too. ESPECIALLY pastries…

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CEF: Community Empowerment Fund

Chapel Hill: 919-200-0233 Durham: 919-797-9233

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