Update

For those of you who were not able to attend our first Family and Friends Association meeting, here is a quick recap:
 
There does appear to be interest in forming a Family and Friends Association. In particular, friends and family: want to be involved in an NEYT community; want to stay informed about NEYT; want their ideas and suggestions heard by NEYT board and staff; and want to help NEYT succeed by devoting time and energy to the organization. To this end, there is strong support for:

* Community building events that bring family/friends together. While these would be social events, there would also be an opportunity to hear announcements and sign up for volunteer opportunities etc.

* Forums with NEYT board and staff that would provide a space for people to share ideas/concerns/visions for NEYT. In particular, parents want to have a space to voice views, given the large (and growing role) that NEYT is playing in the lives of their kids.

* "Volunteer Days" that would allow family/friends to contribute time, when they have it.

* A regular electronic newsletter that both communicates NEYT news (everything from long-term goals to upcoming auditions to alumni news), as well as announces opportunities to help the organization.
 
Since our first meeting, we have been working to take steps in each of these areas. Several individuals have volunteered to serve on a preliminary steering committee. Jody Haley is working tirelessly already to coordinate volunteer efforts. Adam Silver will be taking on planning forums with NEYT board and staff. Anne and Adam Weinberg have been working closely with NEYT board, staff, and other members of the steering committee on the first Family and Friends Association electronic newsletter.  We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions!
 
For more information on NEYT’s many volunteer opportunities, contact Jody Haley at glh@sover.net or at ghaley@masiello.com
 
For input and feedback regarding the NEYT electronic newsletter, contact: Anne Weinberg at Newcot2@yahoo.com