So your FOJG ExCom (i.e. Board) gets together each month and sing songs to the water, fire, sun and moon gods. Next, we report on the number of native plants in our back yards  (Whoever has the most natives wins a free ice cream cone.). Lastly, we play bird songs and see who identifies the most correctly!

You guessed it – no, we don’t do any of those things but it’s a pretty safe bet that most of us love chocolate ice cream and singing birds! So is serving on the FOJG board (referred to as the ExCom) a great experience? Before I decided to take the leap, my biggest worry was that I wouldn’t have as much time as was expected to devote to the group because of the demands of my consulting practice. Would I be considered a slacker if I didn’t attend every meeting? Ahhh – there was a big sigh of relief when I was told that attending every session was not a prerequisite. I let the enthusiasm and dedication of the group draw me in and hoped the gang wouldn’t change their mind! I can honestly say that they’ve been true to their word.

A big reason to consider joining the ExCom is that they’re a remarkably impressive group to see in action. You’ll have an opportunity to hear spirited advocates plan strategy and work with elected officials (and join in if you like). You’ll help choose which deserving individuals and organizations should receive FOJG grants. You’ll see first-hand what goes into the planning of area hikes, paddles, bioblitzes, magical firefly mating rituals, the Big Yard Sale, the RVA environmental film festival, and monthly meetings. Who knows? You might discover that you want to be a trip leader! My fellow board members have kindly encouraged me to pursue my fledgling interests in building a path for young environmentalists and inspire restaurateurs to switch to compostable take-out ware. Even the tiniest of efforts can make a difference!

If any of these musings sound appealing, summer is the time of year to strike up a conversation with our devoted President Joe Brancoli and learn more about joining the team.

 Yours in discovery,

 Carille Greenberg Ribley, ExCom Member

2022