Lisa, John and I had the pleasure of spending 2 days in Johnson City with our friends from the ReFrame Association. ReFrame is a group of home repair non-profits who get together for a conference every year to share ideas and support one another. ReFrame was founded in 2013 but this year was actually their fourth annual conference. ReFrame’s members include folks like Appalachia Service Project, Service Over Self, Mountain TOP, ReWiGo, Raise the Roof Project, and many more.
The conference began with a keynote address by Leslie Crutchfield, the noted author of Forces for Good: The Six Practices of High-Impact Nonprofits. Leslie helped us understand what it takes to increase our impact as we seek to end sub-standard housing in rural Alabama. After this inspiring address, we spent the next day and a half in workshops with fellow home repair practitioners. Lisa attended workshops on developing and improving community partnerships, grant writing, and financial procedures. John participated in the advanced roofing, concrete, and construction project management workshops. Finally, Joe took part in workshops on recruiting volunteers, building confidence in families, and measuring outcomes. The conference ended with a very fitting address on avoiding burnout as we continue to serve and empower others.
We had such a great time of learning and fellowship with our partners in ministry. It is so nice to spend time with folks who have been where you are (or are standing right there with you!) and can offer you their counsel and friendship. We’re thankful for ReFrame and many ways it helps us do what we do better. We’re looking forward to ReFrame 2015!
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