lcoker's blog

Five of the six founding board members of NC CANSO met Thursday, October 22 to discuss and approve bylaws, including mission, vision, statement of purpose and organizational values. There had already been conversations through email, and telephone, and even in person as we prepared for the meeting. I am happy to report that we have finished and approved our first set of bylaws and have even selected interim officers. These are Pat McGinnis, chair, Carol Cannon, Secretary/scribe; Ellen Perry, Treasurer; and Obie Johnson, jr, as the Parliamentarian (Obie keeps this wild bunch orderly and productive!)

The recently selected Board of NC CANSO met recently in Winston-Salem with only one person unable to attend. This meeting is history-making, as it included persons with lived experience with psychiatric illinesses, developemental disabilities, and substance dependence, and was not otherwise "staffed."

Additionally, we thought and worked more as simply--"persons."
We focused on values which drive all citizens and how these will underpin our efferts and shape the lens through which we will view our responsibilities.

Much of the meeting was also focused on managing and creating a financial base. Transparency and accountability are expressly important to the Board of NC CANSO.

After dauntless effort across several years, NC CANSO is off and running! CANSO is unique in that its membership are citizens who have the expertise—the personal experience that results from living with psychiatric illnesses, diseases of addiction, and cognitive disabilities.