Whether we like it or not, change is a way of life.  Computer & smartphone operating systems.  Our favorite model of running shoes.  Coke's secret recipe.  Hairstyles.  Ben & Jerry ice cream flavors.  Good or bad, better or worse - change happens.  And, we're not immune to change at Run Wild Missoula.

 

As you know, Breanne Ender left us in January to pursue an advanced degree at UM.  We were sorry to see Bre move on; but, understood her desire to pursue additional education and knowledge in the field of environmental law and policy.  That change is allowing Bre to pursue something that she is very passionate about - which is great for her and her family.

 

Bre's departure paved the way for us to bring Ashley Cossairt on board as the new Operations Coordinator.  Ashley is excited to be part of the organization and brings a different perspective to our staff as a member of the millennial generation.  Fresh perspectives and fresh energy - both are positive attributes that should serve us well.

 

Now comes more change - Hillary Ogg, our longtime Program Coordinator, has left RWM as of May 6th.  Hillary came on board in late 2013 and was some of the glue that held the organization together as we changed the roles of executive director and marathon race director in 2014.  She had great institutional knowledge of how the organization operated; had strong customer/member service skills; and, had been instrumental in managing our training classes, social activities, member rewards and club merchandise.

 

More importantly, Hillary is the mother of three young boys.  For the foreseeable future, she'll be staying at home to spend more time with her boys and her husband.  Yes, her departure will leave a sizeable void in what we've been accustomed to at Run Wild Missoula.  But, we fully support her endeavor in focusing on what may be the most important job in life - raising your children and helping them to grow, learn and succeed.  The boys in that house are lucky to have Hillary as their role model of a strong, capable, intelligent, compassionate and caring woman.

 

What do these changes mean for Run Wild Missoula?  For the near term, Ashley will move into a full-time role and take on the majority of Hillary's program coordinator tasks.  Through this year's marathon, we've brought in Vo von Sehlen to help coordinate the marathon registration - an important part of Hillary's responsibilities since 2015.  (Vo has served on the marathon planning committee for several years and is well versed in marathon operations.)

 

Door close.  Doors open.  Change creates challenges.  It also provides the opportunity to evaluate, learn, adjust, evolve and grow.  As we move past the marathon, we'll evaluate our operations and work to identify areas where we can improve.  We'll adjust and evolve as necessary to continue to see Run Wild Missoula grow and thrive as the best club in the region.  Whether short or long term, our goal is to deal with change in a way that retains event quality and member services.  Easier said than done?  Perhaps.  But, with the help and support of our great membership, committed cadre of volunteers, strong board of directors, and talented staff, we'll do everything we can to meet that goal.

 

What won't change?  Seeing me out on the roads, tracks and trails.

 

Tony    

Have you been looking for an opportunity to volunteer and give back to your club?  If so, you might be interested in a couple of positions at Run Wild Missoula.

The first is the role of Office Volunteer. This position assists with data entry, mailings, merchandise inventory and a variety of administrative tasks in the RWM office.  In the past, this person was in the office 1 or 2 days a week for 3 to 4 hours each day. But, the days, times and total hours are flexible.  This position requires good organization skills, basic email skills and basic knowledge of Microsoft Office products.

The second position is as our Membership Coordinator.   This volunteer keeps our membership lists up to date and tracks the 7-Races For A Goodie participation.  This person must possess strong internet and email skills, and have strong skills in utilizing Excel spreadsheets.  This role "works" from home with a fully flexible "schedule".

If you're interested in either of these volunteer roles, please contact Tony Banovich at [email protected] .