TJ Connection - Winter 2002

I'm a gatherer and a synthesizer, I'll admit. And fortunately, those tasks are a part of my professional life and work. I gather information about religious education and congregation life and collect sample materials of all sorts on a variety of topics: lifespan RE theory and resources; human and faith development; spirituality; interpersonal, group and organizational communication and leadership; youth program ideas; multiculturalism and anti-oppression; mentoring; service learning; games and craft projects; risk management and safety policies; conflict management; intergenerational programs; stories and inspirational readings; program and congregation administration; staffing models and job descriptions; ministry, and volunteerism. I am apt to take what I gather and synthesize the information into new information sheets, forms, and handouts.

Anyone who is familiar with my filing habits and resource materials, knows that I fill binder upon binder, filing box upon filing box, and tote bag upon tote bag with this stuff. It's everywhere: in my car, in my home office, on my living room floor (where I sort it out, three-hole punch and put it into the binders), all over my dining room table, on shelves upstairs and down. I have left full binders of this sort at the two churches I have served and I tote a selection of them to every event I attend. I have a file in my computer that keeps the format I use to make the cover sheets and binder labels I insert in the clear cover pockets. My second home is the aisle with all of the divider inserts and binders at Office Depot.

The good things (I think) about this compulsion, is that I share these binders and information with those seeking the information. I believe accessing and using information is empowering. I want people to have access to this information in their roles as religious professionals, volunteers, youth advisors, program coordinators, and group facilitators and to feel empowered and equipped to engage in their work effectively. One of my goals is to help UU leaders find what they need so that less time is spent "reinventing the wheel." I am currently seeking sample materials on congregation staffing, job descriptions, contracts and covenants, staff meeting formats, and personnel policies. In addition, I am seeking examples and ideas for Media and Public Relations programs for UU congregations.

So, I can help you and you can help me.....You can send me any sample materials in any of the categories I have mentioned in this column (white out any info you don't want shared) to the TJ District office 9704 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28262-9738. Let me know if there are any resources or websites you recommend on these topics. If I am coming your way for a cluster gathering or district event, contact me and let me know if there are resources you need on a particular topic--I'll see what I can do to bring materials along with me. As I develop new collections that may be of interest to you, I will let you know.

With this issue of the TJ Connections I have mentioned a number of sources for helpful materials to purchase or borrow and some available to you upon request. Access them. Use them to transform, improve, and empower others.

Yours in faith,
Laurel Amabile, Lamabile@uua.org,
or by phone, 828-231-0960 or 828-645-0882.

TJ Connection - Winter 2002

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season and a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year! The Thomas Jefferson District Board and Staff

Lifespan REflections by Laurel Amabile, TJD Program Consultant

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season and a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year!
The Thomas Jefferson District Board and Staff

Lifespan REflections
by Laurel Amabile, TJD Program Consultant