Strategically Moving Forward Together

Last month, members of the Executive Board of Directors convened in the Burbank office for their biannual, in-person meeting. They gathered from across the state to review AARBF's successes, address challenges, and plan for AARBF's bright future.

At the leadership of President Karen Miller, the Executive Board built on their governance skills, shared knowledge with one another, participated in a strategic planning session, and received training from a planned giving professional. AARBF staff members gave the Executive Board of Directors presentations on survivor services, burn prevention, financial development, and administration, so they could have a robust overview of the organization's current structure and functions, and review the successes of 2009.

In 2010, six new Board members joined the AARBF's Executive Board of Directors. Karen Miller returned to the Board after a 5 year sabbatical. She works in finance and is a long-time volunteer for Champ Camp, where she is known as "Smiley."

Juan Azcarate has been volunteering for AARBF for years. He works for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and serves as the Treasurer for the Board.

Chris Bridger is a Clovis firefighter and long-time volunteer. Known as "Rocks," he participates in Champ Camp, the Young Adult Summit, and other survivor and fundraising events.

Ed Dieden, aka "Sprig," is a retired contractor and a long-time volunteer. Sprig participates in Champ Camp, the Young Adult Summit, holiday parties, and many other activities.

Jon Johnston is a Fire Inspector/Investigator for the Menlo Park Fire Protection District. He's supported AARBF for years through the very successful Menlo Park Pancake Breakfast and is a passionate advocate for burn prevention education.

Marcelle McCullough is a long-time volunteer who has participated in SoCal fundraising events and Champ Camp, where she is known as "M & M." Marcelle is an event planner and the owner of Masterpiece Meetings.

They join returning Executive Board members Carmela Arganbright (Vice President), Lea "Kamikaze" Knopf, Mike "Otter" Gonzalez (Immediate Past President), Patricia Mieszala, Cindy "Soupy" Mutoza, and Gino "Jino" Rinaldi. We salute you all for your dedication to AARBF and your amazing community spirit.

It is the passion, determination and vision of AARBF's Executive Board of Directors that guide the organization to be its best. On behalf of all of us, thank you!

Find out more about Executive Board of Director membership at www.aarbf.org/staff/staff.htm

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