Whilst the role of a Trustee can be hugely rewarding, it carries significant responsibility as charities are under close scrutiny to ensure they are fulfilling their objectives, using charity money wisely and prudently as well as complying with all charity and other legislation.
A Trustee of a faith-based charity such as FMDM has another layer of both gift and responsibility in that they are being asked to offer leadership and guidance within a particular tradition and spirituality.
We are richly blessed to have Trustees who give of their time and expertise to support us in our Mission. The FMDM Foundation CIO Trustees currently bring expertise in finance, investments, aged care, spirituality, strategy, HR, governance and safeguarding. FMDM sisters are also Trustees on the Foundation CIO Board.
Our Trustees also commit to their own formation programme to help them enter into, and deepen, their understanding of our Congregation, our Franciscan tradition and spirituality and our missionary outreach across the globe.
Someone taking on a Trustee role needs to feel aligned with the charity they are offering to help. Hence, before a Trustee is appointed there is an opportunity for them to visit Ladywell and be given an introduction to the Congregation and our Vision, Values and Mission. Then follows an interview with members of the Congregational Leadership Team and the Chair of Trustees. If both parties feel there is a ‘good fit’, then references and background checks are completed. Any new Trustee is offered a specific induction programme, to help them take on their role with as much background and information as possible.
Board meetings are held four times a year and most Trustees also sit on a sub–committee of the Board.