November 8, 2024 - The Tri-County Community Action, Inc. (TCCA) was provided board training from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) on Monday, November 4. The training was conducted by Ms. Karen Keith, a Program Specialist who frequently travels across Texas to train local staff and gain firsthand insight into the impact of poverty on various communities.
Ms. Keith brought her dynamic personality to the training and commenced with a comprehensive historical overview, challenging the attendees to reflect on significant events from each decade since the 1960s. Stressing the importance of understanding history and collaborating to accomplish their mission, Ms. Keith left a deep impression on the participants. "I was truly enlightened by some of the insights she shared with us," remarked Jennifer Bell, the IT Director. Brenda Allen, the Social Services Director, expressed that TDHCA offered highly beneficial insights for board training and knowledge for Community Action Agencies.
During the training session, Ms. Keith emphasized the significance of having a supportive board and outlined their responsibilities when collaborating with a community action agency. She highlighted the crucial role each person plays in achieving a common goal. "Thanks to the training provided by our funding partner, TDHCA, I uncovered the potential for partnerships between the Board of Directors and the Management Team to propel the agency in meeting the needs within our service area," expressed Latricia Reynolds, CFO. "It was inspiring to learn that TDHCA recognizes Tri-County Community Action's innovative approach in delivering services to address community needs. By collaborating with our community leaders, there are endless possibilities for what we can achieve together."
The TCCA Board members have been equipped with crucial directives for ensuring the agency's success when executed with precision. These include exercising due diligence, inquiring actively, comprehending financial statements, adhering to the mission, strategic thinking and planning, conducting thorough annual performance reviews of the Executive Director, assessing and managing risks, contributing to fund development, and expressing passion. Lenola Wyatt, a Board Member, praised the TCHCA trainer for being highly knowledgeable, deeming the information provided to the board members as invaluable.
At the end of the board meeting, Ms. Keith emphasized the significance of not forgetting our purpose. She highlighted the importance of understanding why we do what we do. The Community Actions Agency is dedicated to assisting the community in overcoming poverty and serving as a beacon of hope. "Our Board of Directors is committed to excellence in oversight and its role in improving agency outcomes. Trainings in governance leadership enhance our effectiveness as a Board, as we work together with all of our partners to fulfill the mission and vision of this agency," stated Isha Brown, Chairperson of the Board of Directors.
